It’s true HJ, when you marry someone, you marry their entire family and that includes the much-loved/loathed mother in law. So hey if you have to go away with your overbearing, controlling mother-in-law here are our top eight local picks.
ANEW Resort Hunters Rest - Rustenberg
Distance spent with your monster-in-law- 1.5-hour drive
There isn’t much we don’t like about this hotel and we’re sure you’ll feel the same. Not only do they serve the best food in the whole of Rustenberg but also this treasured hotel is a firm favorite with South Africans and has been for more than 40 years. This is the undisputed grande dame of hotels and is way beyond perfect for a family getaway. Opinionated mother dearest will appreciate it too because there is a fabulous spa you can whisk her away to for a couple of hours and also a heated pool. It’s a win-win.
Sky Villa Boutique Hotel - Plettenberg Bay
Distance spent with your monster-in-law- 1 hour and 45 minute flight to Plettenberg bay
This 5-star Sky Villa Boutique Hotel of the Cape Summer Villa Collection is situated in Barons View Estate, Plettenberg Bay and we guarantee your m.i.l will be exceedingly impressed because it’s perched on a hilltop with 360-degree views of the ocean and Keurbooms lagoon, and just five minutes away from the town and beach. There are 14 luxury rooms, so make sure you book one for you and hubby and a separate one for mama. Send her off for an afternoon to taste their speciality crafted cocktails or a wine tasting in their wine room.
Fairview Estates - Fouriesburg
Distance spent with your monster-in-law 3 hours and 30 minute drive
Mommy can become close acquaintances with an alpaca (instead of you) and although you might dream of him spitting in her face, instead take the high road and imagine a three story silo, that once stored cattle feed, which has been transformed into self catering accommodation. You’ll fall head over heels with the tranquillity of the rolling hills and its charming beauty.
Because its three levels you wont feel over crowded or overwhelmed by you know who and although they offer a cleaning service at an additional R100 per day, we think mom is qualified enough for the dishes.
Becks Safari Lodge - Hoedspruit
Distance spent with your monster-in-law – 5 and a half hours drive
If mamma dearest has a deep appreciation for the South African bushveld then this is the place to take her. Not only will she be captivated by the innovative design and luxury accommodation but you’ll also be pleased because you can skip a daily game drive or three, and get that much needed break from her and her parenting manual. So when she’s out gazing for lionesses, you’ll be outdoors on your own private deck of your safari suite, basking in the peace and quiet. Also BONUS. Remember its communal eating and living so you’ll hardly have to allocate one-on-one time.
Jeffrey’s Bay Beach House - Jeffrey's Bay
Distance spent with your monster-in-law – 1 hour and 20 minute flight to Port Elizabeth and a 1 hour drive to Jeffrey’s bay
This accommodation is right on top of the beach. Breakfast is served daily between eight and ten in the morning, and lunch is available upon request. It’s ideal if if she’s into adventure because you can take her on a social kayaking excursion or better yet take her on the extreme kayak experience with a difference (you can thank us later). She can also create sweet memories with the grand kids and try bird watching, fishing, hiking or sunset watching so instead of her being intrusive all weekend long, this place will surely keep her entertained for hours.
Tintswalo at Boulders - Simons Town
Distance spent with your monster-in-law- 2-hour flight to Cape Town and a 45-minute drive to Boulders
Deep down (not 6 feet under) mother in laws are really nice people, right? Well you’ll get to know yours very intimately on this weekend escape because at Tintswalo Boulders there are theme inspired luxury suites all under one roof. Not only will you bask in the discernible vocalizations of your m.i.l laughter but you’ll also be pleased to hear the growls of penguins. Yip, you’ll have the finest view in the whole of the Cape as this villa overlooks the framed oceanfront of Boulders Beach. Or if you’d prefer to make a mark, frolic and go explore Cape Town’s renowned wineries or go for a hike through Table Mountain National Park, we guarantee shell be inspired.
Thendele Camp - Royal Natal National Park - Drakensberg
Distance spent with your monster-in-law – 4 hours drive
If your m.i.l is a glamper then bring her here because these facilities are of the lowest glamping standards. It’s every camper’s paradise but for the luxe living benchmark, this will be sure to shock her socks off.
Yes she will be mesmerized by the magnificent landscape and cascading waterfalls but its plain old camping so its sure to irk her, assuming that’s the intention. Oh and while you’re at it, there are also excellent ablution blocks available but don’t tell her we said so.
Wolwe Krans Eco Lodge - Mpumalanga
Distance spent with your monster-in-law 3 hours and 30 minute drive
This weekend lodge is known as the Jewel of Mpumalanga and is situated in the majestic Schoemanskloof escarpment, with 240-degree panoramic views of the Lowveld valley and the Drakens Mountains. So we know mother in laws say the darnedest things thus when you need a breather simply take in the mountain views. If mum’s all about keeping a low carbon footprint she will love that each chalet is 100% eco-friendly with electricity being supplied via solar and gas. She can also bring along Lucy because it is pet friendly and they will have their own room.
