Fordoun Hotel & Spa

A historic farm estate along South Africa's best countryside meander.

Set on a working dairy farm in the foothills of the Drakensberg mountains, Fordoun could be a pretty retreat in the English countryside. It's an impression that's intensifed by the curving tree-lined access, Nottingham Road, which leads to this...

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Eve

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4.9 out of 5 stars Average guest rating

About Fordoun Hotel & Spa

Set on a working dairy farm in the foothills of the Drakensberg mountains, Fordoun could be a pretty retreat in the English countryside. It's an impression that's intensifed by the curving tree-lined access, Nottingham Road, which leads to this guesthouse and spa that occupy portions of an original 1860 homestead. Today, you can indulge in considerably more than farm fare at this five-star retreat, with elegant cuisine at the on-site restaurant, a host of therapies at the well-appointed spa, and charming, really comfortable accommodation. Along with dairy products, fruit and veg are sourced right here on the farm.

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From $170 person/night

Hotel

22 Rooms

Midlands, South Africa

What you'll love

The perfect mix of farm-style living with a good dose of creature comforts thrown in for good measure.

Insiders tip

Don't forget your bathing suit. Even if you don't do the spa treatments, the stunning indoor pool is a spot worth lingering.

Something to think about

Sadly, much of the architectural history of Fordoun has been swept over and buried underneath the more contemporary style.

The property

This is a charming place, both indoors and out. Skye Bistro, with its attractive French country decor, crystal chandeliers and elegant menu, serves out-of-this-world dishes of locally sourced beef and lamb, artisanal cheeses and fresh garden greens. The "farm-style" breakfasts are generous (you'll need just a snack for lunch). The indoor swimming pool recalls a Grecian bath, and the newly built spa has hydrotherapy baths and showers, and beautiful treatment rooms. The views are free...

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The rooms

Fordoun's luxurious suites range from large to larger, but all rooms have king-sized beds, generous en-suite bathrooms with baths and showers, underfloor heating, tea/coffee stations and a mini-bar. Dam-facing rooms have a private veranda to enjoy the views. Superior Mountain View rooms deliver what they promise, and also have a separate lounge. Also new is the Fordoun Farm Village, built around a "village green", with eight self-catering cottages sleeping 32 guests – perfect for a weekend wedding party.

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Activities

Classic country recreations here range from fly-fishing and clay-pigeon shooting to walks through the estate. For wilder experiences, head into the Drakensberg on foot, or on mountain bikes – some routes are steep, the views always stunning. Calm the inner you with a yoga instructor (retreats are held year-round). And ask about the lodge's social and environmental work, which includes a crane sanctuary, and a village and school for staff. Of course, the Midlands Meander is always worth exploring slowly.

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About Midlands

Midlands

Peace and tranquillity personified, this is a place to sit back and let nature soothe your soul.

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