Cathkin Cottage is conveniently positioned in the heart of Champagne Valley and is in close proximity to all local attractions and restaurants, with many hikes starting from the cottage this in a safe and secure environment.
Cathkin B&B and Self Catering offers warm hospitality with comfortable accommodation in well appointed rooms, all en suite. Each room comprises tea and coffee making facilities, a mini bar fridge and is fully serviced. You can enjoy delicious breakfasts on the patio whilst taking in the view and planning your day. Should you choose Self Catering you have the entire house to use since we do not offer B&B and Self Catering simultaneously. Self Catering accommodates up to 10 persons (max).
Whether you choose to lie at the pool and read or get out and about exploring - you will find this beautiful place induces great peace and relaxation. Rejuvenation is not an option but just a natural process whilst visiting Champagne Valley.
Facilities and Services:
- Braai (barbecue) area
- Picnic area
- Swimming Pool
- Packed lunches on request for picnics in the mountains (in advance on request)
- Special requests like champagne, chocolate and flowers (in advance on request)
- Delicious English or continental breakfast served on the patio or in our cosy dining room, both overlooking a park like garden with a pool and wonderful views
- Birding
- Relaxing in the lovely garden
- Laundry can be done (at additional cost on request/with notice)
Champagne Valley is an area of outstanding beauty situated in the Central Drakensberg and within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We are 2.5 hours drive from Durban and 4,5 hours from Johannesburg. The two highest peaks, Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peak are found here and often in Winter will be covered in snow. Summers are generally warm with temperatures ranging from 25-37 degrees celsuis. Winters are generally cool with temperature ranging from 3-21 degrees celsuis. The area offers beauty at every turn - each with a new and different view of the magnificent Drakensberg mountains and its surrounds. The Monks Cowl National Park is in close proximity and easily accessible.
There is so much to do in this area no matter what adventure you seek. The most popular activity is hiking of which we are close to many popular trails. Located nearby you will find Tree Top Canopy Tours, horse riding, helicopter flips and hot air ballooning.
We are within walking distance to health spa that offers individual or couple spa treatments. We are also located across from the Drakensberg Sun Resort which offers, canoeing, putt putt, tennis and squash.
There are many culinary delights in the area including the Drakensberg Chocolate Bar, Berg Rostery, Drakensberg Craft Brewery and the Champagne Bistro. You also cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy a slice of homemade Honey Cheesecake at Scrumpy Jacks.
From Johannesburg
Freeway route: Johannesburg to Van Reenans Pass on N3.
Take the first glide off after the Tugela Toll Plaza, which is at the bottom of Van Reenan`s Pass.
Route 1. Turn left for approx. 4 kms on the N11 then turn right towards Winterton onto the R600. You will cross over the N3 concrete highway. At R74 turn left towards Winterton.
Route 2. Turn right over N3 freeway and proceed for 38 kms to R74 junction, turn left to Bergville
Continue on R74 for 22 kms to Winterton
Scenic Route. This is the route is not advised unless you have time and a 4x4 we must advise that the condition of the roads is shocking and you need to avoid using it in misty, poor weather conditions. Also do not travel this road at night. At Harrismith you need to turn off towards QwaQwa/Bethlehem. Continue towards Bethlehem until you see the QwaQwa sign to the left. Take this turning and continue until you see the Sterkfontein Dam / Central Drakensberg turning to left. Continue next to the dam (which will be on your right hand side) and travel down Oliviers Pass, past Little Switzerland towards Bergville.
In Winterton, opposite Engen Garage, turn right onto R600 CENTRAL BERG road. Proceed for approx 13 km to the crossroad junction.
Cross straight over and continue for 12km. Pass Champagne Sports Resort on your left hand side. Take the next road right - sign posted the Drakensberg Sun Resort and Cathkin Cottage B&B. Travel approx. 4 km.
The Drakensberg Sun is on your right hand side. Continue straight on and tell security at the `boom gate` that you are going to No,l Yellowwood Drive. Turn left at the small circle, into Yellowwood Drive. Cathkin Cottage is the first house on your left hand side.
From Durban:
Continue on the N3 from the Mooi River tollgate towards Estcourt, until you reach Exit 179, the Escort North / Giants Castle off ramp. Turn left towards Giants Castle / Loskop proceed for approx. 3 5km past Loskop township and Bata Shoes Factory. Turn Left at Thokisiza onto the R600 - before the dirt road. This road is tar all the way to Cathkin Cottage. 15 km from Thokisiza to Cathkin Cottage B&B and Self Catering.
No children under 12 years