We all know mum loves that breakfast in bed and those handmade cards she’ll treasure forever. But how about making Mother’s Day extra special this year, with a getaway that screams rest and relaxation?
Hidden in the foothills of the Northern Drakensberg Nature Reserve adjacent to the Amphitheatre World Heritage Site is The Cavern Resort & Spa. Surrounded by majestic mountains, lush indigenous forests and clear mountain streams, it is a captivating country drive from Durbs and a tucked away escape that boasts a valley rich and diverse in history.
Run by the third generation of Carte sisters who continue the legacy started by Ruth and Bill Carte in 1941, which was to create beauty, make the land more fertile, make their living and leave the world better than when they first came into it. The Cavern has remained pristine through years of eradicating invader species, maintaining the natural surrounds and investing in solar energy. Its grasses are rich with berg flowers and the forests are home to 70 tree species. The bird list has 204 species, 24 of which are endemic. The valley below it is home to Bushman paintings, rock carvings and an interesting cannibal history.
With standard and superior accommodation, and rooms set in landscaped gardens where a mix of vibrant, indigenous plants attracts hundreds of birds and the evenings are filled with the sounds of crickets, frogs and other friendly creatures, The Cavern is both an escape for couples and a retreat for solitude. It is also a child-friendly resort with loads of fun activities.
Superior rooms and suites overlook the Fern Forest … each has its own private patio where you can relax in the sun, listen to the forest streams and unwind in the peace of untouched mountain wilderness. Each day there are guided morning hikes and horse rides. And for the more energetic, there’s a swimming pool, tennis courts, 80km of MTB trails and dams for trout fishing.
For those who love a little pampering, the Forest Retreat Spa is a tranquil escape for a relaxation and restorative treatments including hot stone massages, luxury facials and a host of body grooming options.
Visiting the Cavern is more than just a stay in a beautiful hotel … it’s about being immersed in nature, the beauty of reconnecting with loved ones and contributing to leaving the world a little bit better.
RATES (valid until 9 December 2025)
Includes accommodation, three meals daily, teas and coffee, access to wilderness, guided walks, most activities, and packed lunches on request.
Standard PP Sharing/ Single
Comfortable room, no TV R2020/ R3030
Superior PP Sharing/ Single
Superior accommodation, TV, R2550/ R3825
WiFi, bar fridge
Superior Suite PP Sharing/ Single
Spacious suite, TV, R2920/ R4380
WiFi, bar fridge, fireplace
Conservation Levy is R40 per adult per stay.
Details: 036 438 6270, 083 701 5724, info@cavern.co.za, www.cavern.co.za
