Rockwood Lodges are spread across the private Karkloof Nature Reserve and Spitzkop Farm in KwaZulu Natal and consists of 4 very different lodges in 4 very different locations across these two properties.
Rockwood Forest Lodge and Rockwood Mountain Lodge are situated within the reserve itself and are approximately 25 minutes drive apart. These two lodges are only accessible by 4x4 and a transfer to your lodge can be arranged for you.
Rockwood Farm Cottage and Rockwood Farm House are situated upon a tranquil Midlands farm, called Spitzkop and are about 25m apart.
Accommodation at Rockwood Lodges
Accommodation ranges from large 6 - 8 sleeper units which are rented out on a “per unit per night” basis or the slightly smaller 4 sleeper Farm Cottage which is rented out on a “per person per night” basis.
Rockwood Forest Lodge is located on the banks of a stream within the forest and is electrified. This is ideal for a group of up to 8 people who want to escape city life completely!
Rockwood Mountain Lodge is located on the edge of a natural clearing in the forest. Due to its remote location, it makes use of solar power for lighting and gas for all other requirements. The perfect spot for families with kids that need space to run wild!
Both these lodges contain the following:
- 3 bedrooms, 2 or 3 bathrooms for 6 to 8 guests (one king size, 4 to 6 single beds)
- Fully equipped kitchen with fridge/freezer, oven, microwave (Rockwood Forest Lodge only) and cutlery and crockery for 6 - 8 people.
- Fireplace in sitting room (Rockwood Forest Lodge only). Firewood provided.
- Heaters in all bedrooms.
- Insect repellent in all bedrooms.
- Soap and shampoo in bathrooms.
- Towels, linen, duvets and blankets provided.
- Tea, coffee, salt, pepper provided.
- Kettle in each room (Rockwood Forest Lodge only).
- Large entertainment deck .
- Supply of reference books on the fauna and flora.
- iPod docking station.
- DSTV (selected channels only) and Blu Ray DVD player (selected titles available) - Rockwood Forest Lodge only.
- 4 x 4 access for last 8km during wet weather or high clearance vehicles in drier months are required.
- No cell phone access inside the lodge.
Rockwood Farm Cottage is situated upon a typical Midlands farm and most suited for the smaller family looking for something remote enough to get away from it all, but central enough to Howick and the rest of the Meander Route.
It contains the following:
- 2 bedrooms, 2 en-suite bathrooms for 4 guests (one king size, 2single beds).
- Fully equipped kitchen with fridge/freezer, oven, microwave and cutlery and crockery for 4 - 6 people.
- DSTV (selected channels only).
- iPod docking station.
- Heaters in all bedrooms.
- Insect repellent in all bedrooms.
- Soap and shampoo in bathrooms.
- Towels, linen, duvets and blankets provided.
- Tea, coffee, salt, pepper provided.
- Large entertainment deck .
Rockwood Farm House has recently been added to our portfolio of properties. Massive open windows and sliding doors allow you the opportunity to drink in all of Nature from the privacy of your own room.
It contains the following:
- 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms for 8 guests (one king size, 6 single beds)
- Fully equipped kitchen with fridge/freezer, oven, microwave and cutlery and crockery for 8 - 10 people.
- Fireplace in sitting room. Firewood provided.
- Jetmaster in TV lounge.
- DSTV on 32” Plasma Screen and Blu Ray DVD player (selected titles and channels available) in TV Lounge.
- DSTV (selected channels available) on 57cm TV in Attic.
- Heaters in all bedrooms.
- Insect repellent in all bedrooms.
- Soap and shampoo in bathrooms.
- Towels, linen, duvets and blankets provided.
- Tea, coffee, salt, pepper provided.
- Kettle in each room.
- Large entertainment deck .
- Supply of reference books on the fauna and flora.
The units are cleaned twice daily. No cooking is included. We do provide a limited laundry service upon request.
There are several restaurants in the area and we will gladly assist with reservations.
Water
The water is perfectly safe to drink. It is taken direct from the steam running past the Lodge, well above any possible contamination sources. Occasionally, especially after heavy rains, the water may be murky. These suspended solids pose no health threat.
Cellphone Reception
Permanent reception at the Farm Cottage and House. Intermittent cell phone reception is available at Forest and Mountain Lodges. To get better reception, use your phone in a car kit, or drive to the edge of the indigenous forest.
No Malaria
There is no malaria risk in the area.
Rockwood is situated on Spitzkop Farm and within the Karkloof Nature Reserve in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa on the well-known Midlands Menader route. The greater Karkloof area has been identified as having significant value due to its biodiversity and has been earmarked for conservation by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. Currently, the reserve consists of about 60% mist-belt forest and 40% mist-belt grassland and ranges from 1000m to 1767m above sea level. This results in a significant number of endemic and near-endemic species of fauna and flora.
The Karkloof is an excellent mountain biking and trail running area hosting yearly events such as the Karkloof Classic, the 3 Cranes Challenge and the 100-Miler. We host guests for the Midmar Mile and the Comrades Marathon. The area is home to many local farmers who supply the local Karkloof Farmer’s Market and Piggly Wiggly which is a scenic drive from the farm.
Birdwatching on the forest fringes can offer some excellent rewards. Some of the more elusive species found are the Cape Parrot, Narina Trogon, Crested Guinea Fowl and the Crowned Eagle.
For the adventurous, there are a number of activities including mountain biking, fishing, swimming (in natural pools) or the famous Karkloof Canopy Tours which offers a thrilling way to learn more about our forests while hanging 40m above the ground.
Also:
- Guided Mountain Biking tours with the developer of the Karkloof Classic Race trails can be arranged.
- Trout and bass fishing is possible in the Godwini Dam. Please bring your own fishing equipment.
- There are several splash pools in the river above and below the lodges in the reserve.
- Utilize some of the books provided to test your knowledge about trees.
- There are numerous self-guided hiking trails in the reserve.
- The Karkloof area has numerous waterfalls to visit.
- Children`s Play Area (with Jungle Gym and Trampoline) for exclusive use by guests of Rockwood Lodges.
- 5% cancellation fee if cancelled more than 30 days prior to arrival.
- 50% cancellation fee if cancelled less than 14 days prior to arrival.
- 100% cancellation fee if cancelled less than 7 days prior to arrival or no show.
- Should cancelled accommodation be resold, cancellation fees shall be refunded less a 10% handling charge.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION, PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: BOOKING CONFIRMATION AND PAYMENT:
On receipt of your reservation, a pro-forma invoice will be emailed to you. Please check the required deposit as bookings are only confirmed once the deposit is received. Please note the same credit card that is used for the booking, as well as, the cardholder ID or Passport will be required at check-in (a driver’s license is not proof of identity). 4x4 ACCESS AND DIRECTIONS FOREST LODGE and MOUNTAIN CABIN: Accessible ONLY by 4x4 or high clearance vehicles. FARM HOUSE AND FARM COTTAGE: Accessible on farm dirt roads. Detailed directions are provided below. RECEPTION AND CHECK-IN Check-in is from 3.00pm. We operate in a remote area and for our guest’s convenience, we request that we are notified of your time of arrival to ensure that we are able to meet you at reception before you proceed to your lodge. There is signage on the property to the reception / office. CHECK OUT Check is at 10am. Late check-outs can be accommodated under certain conditions by prior arrangement with management. WATER, POWER AND ELECTRICITY All water is safe to drink. MOUNTAIN LODGE – Is eco-friendly and operates on GAS AND SOLAR. Please DO NOT use additional electronic appliance such as hairdryers and laptops. ALL OTHER LODGES – Rely on Eskom for electricity. Backup lamps and gas stoves with kettles are available in the event of a power failure. SUPPLIES All lodges are stocked with linen, towels, toiletries and basic bathroom amenities. Complimentary starter packs of tea, coffee, milk, sugar, cooking oil, charcoal and basic condiments are provided. FOREST LODGE AND FARM HOUSE: Firewood is supplied. UNFENCED DAMS AND RIVERS Please note if you are travelling with anyone who cannot swim: Rockwood FARM HOUSE and COTTAGE share an UNFENCED dam. Rockwood FOREST LODGE is situated on the banks of a stream. NO PETS POLICY We regret that Rockwood is a within a Nature Reserve and that we are unable to accommodate pets as they are unaccustomed to the wildlife (and usually pose a threat to themselves). WEATHER The Karkloof is a hot, afternoon rainfall Summer area and Winters are sunny and cold. Please bear this in mind when travelling and pack appropriate clothing. SERVICE TIMES Lodges are serviced daily in the morning. Servicing includes washing dishes, sweeping and making beds. For an additional fee our staff may wash your bikes or prepare your breakfast and salads. ACTIVITIES TRAILS - Rockwood has over 25km of maintained mountain bike, hiking and trail running tracks. The Rockwood Angel is a 7km downhill MTB track from the top of Mount Lebanon to the bottom of the Rockwood dam. It has been described as “pure and natural as it gets.” Alternatively, the Karkloof Country Club is less than 12kms and has a vast expanse of trails. KARKLOOF CANOPY TOUR – The tour starts at the top of Rockwood. We will gladly assist with bookings and are able to offer discounted rates to guests of our lodges. FISHING - Godwini Dam on the way to FOREST LODGE. Please bring your own equipment. SWIMMING AND WATERFALLS – Too many to choose form! We offer a host of other activities including private dining with a local chef, yoga, pilates and various guided hikes with local experts. SECURITY All Lodges have an alarm system linked to armed response. As our guest, you have full access to the private Karkloof Nature Reserve. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to make your stay memorable. The Rockwood Lodges Team DIRECTIONS TO RECEPTION For “best results”, please print and keep with you. Please do not deviate, use google maps or use other signage (for example, our MTB and hiking trails are marked “easier route”), as we cannot be held responsible for inaccuracies. DISCLAIMER As our guest, you will have access to the reserve and surrounding farmland. Possible dangers to persons and property include, but are not limited to, unguarded rivers and dams, cliffs, waterfalls, slippery rocks, wild animals, domestic animals, timber harvesting, suspended decks, vehicle damage from farm roads, fire and flooding. Guests enter at their own risk and are asked to exercise caution. Rockwood Leisure (Pty) Ltd, Rockwood Forest Lodge, The Thomas Hancock Family Trust, Hancock Farms and other landowners whose farms you have access to, can accept no liability for any damage to property or persons, howsoever caused. Further, we reserve the right to amend the published rates without notice. All rates quoted are per unit per night, self-catering, inclusive of VAT.
FROM DURBAN Take N3 from Durban to Howick • Take Exit 103, Howick/Midmar (Karkloof Reserve) turn-off. TURN RIGHT across N3 towards Howick on Prospect Road / R103 (signs for Howick). • Travel 2km on and TURN LEFT on Main Road. • Continue for about 1.8km. TURN RIGHT onto the Karkloof Road (in the centre of Howick, at the SupaQuick Tyres). • After 13km TURN LEFT to Curry’s Post onto a gravel road. • After 3.5km TURN RIGHT onto D815 to Karkloof Reserve West. • CONTINUE for 4.5km through the Rockwood gate (enter your code to open), and over a wooden bridge. • TURN RIGHT to ROCKWOOD OFFICE and the white sheds. The office reception is the last room on the RIGHT. FROM JOHANNESBURG Take N3 to Howick from Johannesburg. • Take Exit 114 (Lions River). TURN LEFT onto D369 towards Curry’s Post on the gravel road (Karkloof Reserve sign). • After 3.2km TURN RIGHT towards Howick on tar road (Karkloof Reserve). • After 3.5km TURN LEFT towards the Karkloof on gravel road (Karkloof Reserve). • After 6.6km CONTINUE straight across the crossroad to Karkloof Reserve West (D815). • CONTINUE for 4.5km through the Rockwood gate (enter your code to open), and over a wooden bridge. • TURN RIGHT to ROCKWOOD OFFICE and the white sheds. The office reception is the last room on the RIGHT.
DIRECTIONS FROM RECEPTION TO LODGES ROCKWOOD FARM HOUSE AND COTTAGE The two units are situated a few hundred meters from reception and are visible across the field. • After check-in, go back the way you came for a short distance. TURN RIGHT onto the first road. • At the T-Junction TURN RIGHT. • About 300m down the road, enter through the green gate down the driveway. ROCKWOOD FOREST LODGE • After check-in, go back the way you came. • At the T-junction TURN LEFT and then immediately TURN RIGHT at the big sign (if you get to the wooden bridge, then you have gone too far). • Travel through the cement drift and head up to FOREST LODGE, approximately 5km. • When travelling to this lodge, please DO NOT go off track or follow signs that indicate “EASIER ROUTE” (MTB signs)! • Please be prepared for some shallow, rocky river crossings. ROCKWOOD MOUNTAIN LODGE • After check-in, go back the way you came for a short distance. TURN RIGHT onto the first road. • At the T-Junction turn RIGHT. • CONTINUE past Farm House and Farm Cottage and up the hill for 500m. • TURN RIGHT at KARKLOOF RESERVE (EAST) / ROCKWOOD MOUNTAIN LODGE sign. • After approximately 1.6km, TURN RIGHT at the KARKLOOF RESERVE (EAST) sign (Unit 4). • Continue through indigenous forest and out onto a grassy clearing. • Follow the road for about 180m to the top of the clearing where you will find ROCKWOOD MOUNTAIN LODGE on your right.
Children aged between 0 and 2 stay free.
Children aged between 3 and 12 pay 50% of the sliding scale rate.
