Discover Hidden Gems in Drakensberg Mountains: Cozy Lodge, Stunning Hikes & Expert Driving Tips

If you’re looking for a serene getaway from the bustling city, the Drakensberg Lodge is an excellent choice. Located in the majestic mountains of Drakensberg, South Africa, this lodge offers a stunning natural setting and a comfortable stay. We recently visited the lodge in August 2022 and had a 2-night sponsored stay. Here is our experience of the lodge, including tips on how to get there and what to expect.

Getting There: Renting a Car from O.R. Tambo

The best way to reach the lodge is by car, and we rented a car from O.R Tambo airport. The drive to the lodge is approximately 4 hours. Once you arrive in QwaQwa, it’s important to note that the roads leading to the lodge can be quite challenging to navigate, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.

Luckily enough, I grew up in the area, and I was able to help Bryce navigate the way through the dark. However, if you rent a car from O.R. Tambo, you should have a reliable vehicle that can handle the drive. The drive to the lodge from QwaQwa can be challenging due to unpaved and sometimes steep roads, but the stunning mountain landscapes make for a picturesque journey. My advice is to make sure you get an unlimited miles package.

If you’re uncomfortable driving in the area, there are also options to arrange a shuttle or transfer service from QwaQwa to the lodge. This is a great option for those who want to enjoy stunning landscapes without worrying about the challenges of driving in the area.

Comfortable Stay in the Snow

We woke up to snowfall, a magical sight. Despite the snow, the lodge was delighted to stay in. We spent hours playing snow fight with other guests and admiring the beautiful landscapes of Drakensberg. The kids were toasty warm in front of the fireplace playing card games, which added to the cozy atmosphere. We were super excited to experience snow in Aug since its summer break in the state, and we came prepared with our winter gear; we knew it was possible.

Food and Drinks

We loved the food at the lodge; the food at the Drakensberg Lodge is a standout feature, with locally sourced ingredients and a diverse menu that changes daily. Guests can chat with the chef before dinner to learn about the evening’s menu, and the lodge also offers a small bar serving local wines and craft beers. Breakfasts are hearty, and packed lunches are available for those heading out on hikes. The dining experience is a must-try for all guests.

Load Shedding Experience

The lodge experienced load shedding during our stay, a common occurrence in South Africa. However, we were not affected, thanks to the electric blankets on the beds and the solar lamp supplied at 10 pm when the power went off. It was a unique experience, and we appreciated how the lodge was prepared for such situations.

Hiking adventures

Hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains is a must-do experience for anyone visiting the area. The lodge offers guided hikes, including the challenging Sentinel Peak and Tugela Falls. The Sentinel Peak hike has a thrilling chain ladder section, and the Tugela Falls hike provides breathtaking views of the second-highest waterfall in the world. The Drakensberg Mountains also offer guided backpacking trips to explore the more remote parts of the mountains. Don’t miss out on exploring the natural beauty of South Africa’s mountains.

Escape to Mountains

Overall, our stay at the Drakensberg Lodge was a memorable one. We loved the comfortable stay, the delicious food, and the great hiking experience. The lodge is perfect for families looking to escape to the mountains and enjoy the natural beauty of Drakensberg. We highly recommend it, and we hope to return soon.

P.S. We also loved the whole staff, from the receptionist to the waitress; everyone was professional and knowledgeable about the area. Can I also add that there was a black dog that my daughter fell in love with? It was so adorable.