KZN stays for tranquility and relaxation
KwaZulu-Natal is filled with hidden (and well-known) gems. Here are but two of our favourites – a farm-style stay on an old mushroom farm, and a luxury stay at none other than The Oyster Box.
The Old Mushroom Farm
This is the place to escape to when you want to get away from the everyday pressures of modern living. It offers a true sense of tranquility while engulfing you with nature. Ideally set on 22 hectares of land in the heart of the Midlands, The Old Mushroom Farm is encircled by rolling hills and valleys lush with greenery. Here, soft birdsong and the gentle hum of nature calms your soul.
We stayed in a self-catering unit which offers all the conveniences of modern living. Initially, it used to be a working mushroom farm and our unit – an erstwhile mushroom growing tunnel – has been repurposed into two bedrooms with a living room, kitchenette and bathrooms.
There’s plenty to do on this KZN farm. In fact, the trendy little village market is filled with boutique-style shops, cafés, a bistro and a coffee roastery. In addition, there are also a crafty bakery and a nature-inspired play area for kids. Furthermore, their gym offers flexi-memberships and drop-in rates for out-of-towners. A beautiful 4.7km walking trail will also have you bump into resident cows and if you’re lucky, even some Duiker and bushbuck.
During our stay, we were invited to forage in the on-site vegetable garden, filled with an abundance of fresh fruit, veggies and herbs.
They are currently building a new conference area. Essentially, The Old Mushroom Farm will host conferences, live music events, product launches and more intimate events like book clubs and whiskey tasting evenings here.
This charming rustic venue makes us feel as happy as hobbits living in the shire. With no television, we had the most wonderful evening, braaiing in our own little courtyard followed by a fun card game. Eventually, we sat listening to the sounds of Africa come alive while enjoying our front row seats, taking in the magnificence of the milky way.
P.S. The Old Mushroom Farm is pet-friendly.
The Oyster Box
If you prefer something more luxurious, look no further than The Oyster Box. Considered a national treasure in uMhlanga, this is one of the most iconic hotels in South Africa.
In truth, The Oyster Box is a real love story. From the owners who had their first date at the hotel, to the happy memories we and many others get to make and cherish here. Evidently, The Oyster Box is a combination of nostalgia and 5-star luxury. While the hotel has been renovated, it has managed to stay true to the authenticity and charm of a bygone era while elegantly gliding into the 21st century.
The Oyster Box’s interior boasts a number of elegant spaces, all perfectly detailed to create a variety of moods. Refined decor and clever use of colour creates a true sense of opulent tranquility. Additionally, crystal chandeliers, black and white terrazzo tiles and the iconic red and white candy stripe detail add that final touch. And, a wonderfully vibrant collection of fine African art, as well as an eclectic collection of international pieces can be appreciated here.
The hotel rooms, suites and villas have all been individually decorated to provide both comfort and functionality, keeping ultimate luxury in mind. Ultimately, it’s the perfect first-class getaway.
P.S. If you’re just a day visitor, remember to try The Oyster Box’s famous high tea.
