MIDLANDS, KZN
Carshalton Cottage emerges as a luxurious haven for families and their pets, nestled in the heart of the Midlands and surrounded by the lush expanses of our farm. This idyllic retreat offers tranquillity and comfort, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the warmth of a home away from home.
Carshalton Cottage is more than just a stay; it’s an experience enriched with activities designed to reconnect you with nature and stir your sense of adventure. Dive into the refreshing waters of our dam, paddle quietly in a kayak, or cast a line in the hope of a catch. For adventure enthusiasts, Carshalton Cottage is a gateway to exhilaration. Dive into the great outdoors with challenging mountain biking trails, scenic hiking paths, exhilarating white river rafting, and awe-inspiring hot air balloon rides, all designed to provide unforgettable experiences. All of these experiences are available within a 1-2 hour drive of the cottage. In addition to enjoying immaculate golf courses, local restaurants also offer delectable regional cuisine. Here, every day is an opportunity for discovery, adventure, and culinary delight in the beautiful Midlands.
Despite our secluded setting, Carshalton Cottage is committed to offering an oasis of luxury and comfort, ensuring that your stay feels like a home away from home. Here, every sunset promises a spectacle, every morning greets you with dew-kissed tranquillity, and every day ends with the satisfaction of a day well spent in nature’s lap.
THE LOCATION
Carshalton Cottage invites you to a serene and luxurious escape on our charming cattle and crop farm. This idyllic haven, perfect for families and their pets, invites you to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of your surroundings. Located in the vibrant greenery of the KZN Midlands, our cottage is conveniently situated just a 15-kilometre journey from the quaint town of Mooi River and a mere 25 kilometres from Nottingham Road.
Our bass dam, situated a short walk from the cottage, is a paradise for anglers and bird watchers, with breathtaking views of the Drakensberg foothills. Soak up the sun on our terrace, take a leisurely kayak ride, or jump into the cool waters of our dam. Here, nestled in nature’s embrace, you can unwind with a sundowner in hand, witnessing the majestic dance of colours as the sun dips below the horizon, ushering in a peaceful Midlands evening.
THE SPACE
Nestled in a tranquil setting, Carshalton Cottage offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, combining comfort with modern conveniences for a memorable getaway. With thoughtful touches throughout, this charming retreat includes:
- Two spacious bedrooms, each featuring a private bathroom. Rest easy in cosy bedding and enjoy ample storage, creating a serene and intimate environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Fully equipped kitchen outfitted with everything you need to prepare and enjoy meals at your leisure. From cookware and cutlery to essential appliances, the kitchen is ready to handle any culinary adventure, whether it’s a simple breakfast or a gourmet dinner.
- Comfortable lounge area with plush seating, providing the ideal space to unwind with a book, chat with loved ones, or watch a movie. The lounge’s open layout creates a welcoming environment to relax and recharge.
- Indoor or outdoor braai area perfect for barbecuing and enjoying meals under the open sky. Set in a charming outdoor space, the braai area allows you to make the most of the beautiful surroundings while cooking up something delicious.
- Private wood-burning hot tub, offering a luxurious touch to your stay. Let the warm water melt away stress as you soak under the stars or enjoy a rejuvenating dip during the day.
- Secure garage with ample space for parking, providing peace of mind for your vehicle during your stay and easy access to the cottage.
Every detail at Carshalton Cottage has been carefully considered to ensure a comfortable, stress-free experience. With its blend of privacy and convenience, the cottage is ready to welcome you for a peaceful and refreshing escape.
THE SURROUNDINGS
The entire property, including the area around the dam, is open for your exploration. If you are interested in learning more about maize and soybean agriculture, or if you want to meet our lovely cattle, please let us know ahead of time. This ensures that one of our experienced managers can give you a complete tour of the farm.
GETTING THERE:
The cottage is situated 15 kilometres from the town of Mooi River, with the initial 8 kilometres of your journey paved with asphalt and the subsequent 7 kilometres consisting of a gravel road. Travellers who visit during the rainy season may find the gravel portion challenging to navigate. It is strongly recommended that you contact us before your arrival to inquire about the current state of the road. Should you face any difficulties while travelling, please know that we are readily available to assist you.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- FISHING: Dive into the serene experience of fishing in our private bass dam, located a short walk from the cottage. Mindful of nature, we adhere to a catch-and-release policy across all our waters.
- GOING OFF THE GRID: Given our secluded location, challenges such as load shedding and bad weather can occasionally disrupt WIFI and DSTV services. While we strive for uninterrupted access, we invite you to relish the opportunity to unplug from digital distractions and reconnect with nature and loved ones during your stay.
- WHAT TO PACK: The Midlands weather is famously unpredictable. To ensure your comfort, we recommend packing for both warm and chilly conditions, so you’re ready to enjoy everything the area has to offer, come rain or shine.
- HOUSEKEEPING: Enjoy the convenience of daily housekeeping services provided by our lovely domestic worker. She will ensure the cottage remains tidy and comfortable, performing general cleaning tasks each morning for a few hours.
- HOME SAFETY: The cottage is secured with an electric fence and requires the mandatory use of life jackets for kayaking or swimming. Although there are no cameras, an alarm system enhances security. Guests must sign an indemnity form for mutual safety. For emergencies, a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit are available, ensuring a well-prepared and safe environment.
Carshalton Cottage revels in its unique ability to blend the thrill of outdoor activities with moments of serene bliss. Here, every sunset promises a spectacle, every morning greets you with dew-kissed tranquillity, and every day ends with the satisfaction of time well spent in nature’s lap. Unwind in the natural rock pools, relish the quiet moments by our little waterfall, and let the panoramic beauty of the Drakensberg foothills envelop you in peace.
EXPERIENCES
SWIMMING AND RELAXING
A naturally formed rock pool can be located a short distance from the cottage. This pool, with a small waterfall, is the inspiration for the farm’s name, “Little Falls.” Guests are invited to venture to this serene spot, where they can relax on a spacious wooden deck or take a dip in the refreshing waters for a swim.
To ensure the safety of families with young children, the property is securely fenced with gates that provide access to the water. This measure is in place to offer peace of mind and a safe environment for all our guests.
EXPLORING BY KAYAK
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of wildlife and plant life that thrives around the dam by taking out one of our kayaks for a paddle. Adjacent to the garage, you’ll discover two kayaks, complete with paddles and life jackets, available for your enjoyment on the dam. We kindly ask that you return these items to the shaded undercover area after use to protect them from the sun. For your safety, wearing a life jacket while kayaking is mandatory.
BASS FISHING
The tranquil dam situated before the house is teeming with bass, offering guests the opportunity to engage in catch-and-release fishing. We kindly request that guests bring their own fishing gear to fully enjoy these angling experiences.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Our region is a haven for cycling enthusiasts, and we are always available to provide directions or suggest various route options. Located approximately 67 kilometres from Carshalton Cottage, the Karkloof Mountain Bike Trails are renowned for offering some of the finest biking paths in KwaZulu-Natal. These trails commence at the Karkloof Country Club, where you can receive guidance on a wide array of routes tailored to different skill levels and preferences. Cost for Visitors: R30 per day.
For those wanting to explore a bit further, there are also the Drakensberg MTB Trails near Bergville and Cascades MTB Park in Pietermaritzburg. Seeking additional thrills? For more detailed information on mountain biking trails throughout South Africa, click here. Otherwise, if you’re interested in exploring local routes, feel free to chat with us. We frequently cycle around the area and are eager to assist with recommendations.
For those who relish the great outdoors and hiking, the Kamberg area is a treasure trove of stunning trails. With its diverse landscape, you’re bound to find routes that not only challenge but also reward you with breathtaking views and serene natural beauty.
HIKES AND TRAIL RUNS
TThe best way to connect with nature and shed the stress of daily life is by embarking on a mountain hike. The Drakensberg region and Kamberg area are famed for their stunning landscapes and boast some of the most picturesque hiking trails available. Among these, the Giants Castle Berg View Trail is a standout. Situated near Highmoor in KwaZulu-Natal, this 6.4-kilometre loop trail is generally regarded as moderately challenging and typically takes about 2 hours to traverse. It’s a fantastic option for both hiking enthusiasts and those looking for a tranquil walk, offering a secluded path where you’re unlikely to meet many other hikers, ensuring a quiet and intimate experience with the natural world.
GOLFING
If you’re a passionate golfer in search of new challenges, perhaps you should book an 18-hole game at Gowrie Farm Golf Course, located in the picturesque Nottingham Road area. For those seeking further variety, Bosch Hoek Golf Club also offers a distinguished golfing experience, adding to your options for exceptional courses to play. Don’t forget to bring your golf clubs and schedule a round!
Contact details:
Gowrie Farm Golf Course:
033 266 6348
Bosch Hoek Golf Club:
033 234 4232
WHITE RIVER RAFTING AND MORE
If adventure calls to you, Four Rivers Rafting and Adventures is your answer. Located near Winterton in the Central Drakensberg, just 85 km from Carshalton Cottage, they offer an array of exhilarating activities. From the thrill of white water rafting to the excitement of zip lining, paintball, quad bike rides, and kloofing in Kong Canyon, there’s something for every thrill-seeker.
Alternatively, for those willing to venture a bit further, a 150-kilometre journey towards Bergville in the Central Drakensberg opens up the opportunity to visit All Out Adventures. Here, you can indulge in an array of thrilling activities such as quad biking, mountain biking, or zip lining, offering a perfect blend of excitement and scenic beauty in the heart of the Drakensberg.
Contact details:
Four Rivers Rafting and Adventures:
[email protected]
083 785 1693
All Out Adventures:
079 417 4989
HOT AIR BALLOON
Elevate your experience with a hot air balloon ride in the Glen Gray area of Winterton, where you’ll witness the breathtaking panorama of the Drakensberg mountains from above. Drakensberg Ballooning, located just 8 km outside Winterton, offers daily flights that present a unique opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. This unforgettable adventure is a must-do, adding an extraordinary element to your bucket list as you experience the beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains from the skies.
KARKLOOF CANOPY TOURS
Embrace your inner Tarzan at Karkloof Canopy Tours, where you can glide through the treetops on an exhilarating adventure. This tour features 12 platforms and 10 zip-line slides, with the longest slide stretching an impressive 200 meters! Lasting about two hours, this tour promises not only a thrilling experience but an absolute blast, offering an unforgettable way to explore the beauty of the Karkloof forests from a unique perspective.
Contact details:
Karkloof Canopy Tours
076 241 2888
RESTAURANTS AND MORE
Our area is home to an array of delightful restaurants and breweries, each offering unique flavours and atmospheres. A standout favourite is La Lampara, an exceptional Italian restaurant known for its bustling ambience, particularly on weekends. We highly recommend making a reservation in advance at 082 416 0195 to secure your spot.
For those in search of a cosy pub with excellent food and a vibrant atmosphere, Bierfassl is the go-to destination. This pub boasts a selection of over 35 different beers from around the globe, including local draughts from Nottingham Road Brewery, and is celebrated for its traditional German cuisine.
Coffee aficionados and lunch-goers will find a haven at Terbodore Coffee Roasters, renowned for their great coffee and lunch options. Meanwhile, Blueberry Cafe on Nottingham Road is the perfect spot for breakfast, offering signature homegrown steaks and blueberry cheesecake. Don’t miss their restrooms with a stunning view of the grass fields, where you can see their remarkable Ankole cattle and alpacas grazing.
For a taste of local culture and produce, visit The Karkloof Farmers Market, open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Piggly Wiggly; and The Old Mushroom Farm. To help you explore further, we’ve left a Midlands Meander Booklet on the kitchen table, full of suggestions for various routes throughout the Midlands Meander. If you’d like to keep a booklet as a souvenir, kindly leave R30 on the kitchen counter upon your departure.
RATES
CARSHALTON COTTAGE RATES 2024
OUT OF SEASON RATES:
Sun – Thurs (Mid-Week)
R2,500 per night
Fri – Sun (Weekends)
R3,000 per night
IN SEASON RATES:
Mon – Sun
R3,000 per night
PEAK SEASON RATES:
15 December – Mid Jan
R3,500 per night
CONTACT DETAILS
Contact us directly to book your stay and receive the best available booking rates.
