Tucked into the side of a rocky hill, overlooking the Mfazimnyama valley of the Spioenkop Game Reserve, and surrounded by the site of a famous Anglo Boer War battle, lies Three Tree Hill Lodge.
Situated in the foothills of the Kwazulu Natal Drakensberg range, where rolling green hills are dotted with flat-crowned Acacia trees, giving it the quintessential “Out of Africa” feeling.
This Fair Trade certified lodge, places great emphasis on Responsible Tourism and offers spectacular scenery, locally grown farm-style country food with superb hospitality. It’s the ideal environment in which to unwind and be rejuvenated.
This intimate, luxury 24 bedded lodge is owned by Simon & Cheryl Blackburn whose passion and enthusiasm for Africa’s wildlife, history and culture is immediately evident when you visit. You’re welcomed into their home, and invited to experience the warm hospitality, and relaxed atmosphere in their four star family-run lodge.
The Lodge and Food:
The old-world charm of the lounge/dining area with its large verandahs creates an ideal environment in which to wind down and enjoy nature. Meals are often served outside where one can soak up the views while enjoying the exquisite local farm-style fare.
The main lounge & dining area is linked by a central fireplace. The lounge is adorned with historical memorabilia & collection of Africana for guests to enjoy.
Free Wi-fi is only available in the Molly Blackburn library. The library holds more than 3000 books to be enjoyed by guests. There is also an underground wine cellar, with a large selection of carefully selected South African wines. Private meals and wine tasting can be arranged here on request.
Meals are all plated individually, with no buffet options. Breakfast orders are taken the night before with choice of Continental and English options. Lunches are light - salads, homemade bread, artisan cheeses & cold meat. Dinners are a set menu with 3 homely farm-style courses followed by South African port or cognac in front of the fireplace or out under the stars around the boma fire. Dinner menu is displayed during afternoon tea, with only one choice for each course, so please do let us know if this choice is not to your liking, so we may have time to prepare an alternative. Fresh, farm ingredients sourced locally or grown on site. Vegans, coeliacs, pescatarians and vegetarians all catered for provided we receive prior notification.
Children can choose from a slightly simpler, wholesome menu and are encouraged to dine earlier in the evenings to ensure the adults have a peaceful evening.
Dining is at private tables, spaced apart for safety as per recommended Covid protocols. Please enquire about dining in the underground Wine Cellar should you wish to have a unique experience.
Platinum Diners Club Wine List – Best of South African wines & craft spirits to choose from at reasonable prices. Be sure to visit Cheryl’s Gin Emporium, which boasts a selection of 30 different South African Craft Gins.
Sheltered Swimming Pool, Croquet Lawn, Sunrise Viewing Deck, Sundowner Viewing Point, Children’s outside play area with jungle gym, trampoline, obstacle course, sand pit & fantasy house.
Close to the base of Van Reenens pass, the lodge is also the ideal half-way stop between Johannesburg & Durban, only 27km from the N3 highway. This lodge is the perfect location to base yourself for exploring the major Anglo-Boer War Battlefields in KwaZulu Natal (Battles of Spioenkop and Colenso), the Northern Drakensberg Mountains (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and within easy (2hrs) reach of the Anglo-Zulu War Battlefields (Battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift).
Golf,
Fishing
Riding
Walking
Hiking
Battlefield Tours
Each of the six twin cottages has its own bath, shower and verandah, with magnificent views of Spioenkop - even from the bath.
Three full meals and teas offer delicious, varied and fresh farm fare. Weather permitting, these are served on the cool wide verandahs of the main lodge.
A viewing deck, swimming pool, wonderful walks and library offer you complete relaxation in this unique African setting.
With breath-taking views of the Spioenkop reserve, this 105 sqm self-contained luxury cottage sleeps 4 adults (or 2 adults, 4 children) in 2 separate bedrooms (with private en-suite bathrooms). Children’s (2nd) bedroom has bunk beds and two single beds. Fully self-contained kitchen with open plan dining and living area. Shared deck leads out from rooms with spectacular views of Spioenkop. Un-fenced private swimming pool (does have pool safety net) & entertainment area in the garden.
This 105 sqm self-contained luxury cottage sleeps 4 adults (or 2 adults, 2 children - 3rd child on request) in 2 separate bedrooms (with private en-suite bathrooms) No children under 8 yrs of age due to high balustrade and uncovered pool. Fully self contained kitchen with open plan dining and living area, private unfenced pool, braai & entertainment area. Shared deck leads out from rooms.
Double/Twin Cottages have 2 extra-length (190cm) ¾ beds pushed together. These beds can be converted to king size if requested. A private verandah is attached to each room. Rooms accessed by fairly steep pathway to main lodge facility.
Master bedroom has a bathroom en-suite (with separate bath & shower). Children’s (2nd) bedroom has bunk beds and two single beds (sleeps 4 children under 12 years) This room has a fully functional bathroom adapted for people with limited mobility. Wheelchair access into the shower, with handrails & fold-away seat make this suitable. Lounge area with fireplace opens to cozy kitchenette (microwave, wash basin & fridge) with tea/coffee making facility.
- 0 to 14 days prior forfeit 85% of the reservation
- 15 to 21 days prior forfeit 50% of the reservation
- 22 to 30 days prior forfeit 25% of the reservation.
Approximately 3 hours from Johannesburg International airport, via the N3 towards Durban. Take exit 230 (near Ladysmith) and follow the R616 west towards Bergville for 30 minutes. Detailed directions will be provided when booking is confirmed.
Children of all ages are welcome.
