Makaranga Garden Lodge Durban

The Makaranga Garden Lodge is located in the lush, sub-tropical village of Kloof, amongst 30 acres of lush vegetation. The village of Kloof lies approximately 30 kilometres from KwaZulu Natal's major city, Durban, and about 50 kilometres from the provincial capital, Pietermaritzburg in South Africa.

Durban’s suburb of Kloof borders the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve. A variety of wildlife and birds making their homes in this indigenous forest habitat.

Accommodation at the Makaranga Garden Lodge, Durban

The lodge and gardens at Makaranga feature an impressive art collection and guests can wander the pathways through the garden to admire the Shona and Italian sculptures which are set amongst an impressive collection on Camellias, Magnolias and Rhododendrons. The Japanese garden at the Lodge features original stone carvings from Japan and the 18 ponds and waterways are ideal setting for little bronze statues of Venus Rising, Pan and many more.

The Wild Poplar Restaurant at this 5 star getaway retreat offers fine dining table d’hote dinners and the Tuscan Terrace offers buffet and lunch breakfast. Day visitors are welcome to enjoy a walk in the garden and tea and scones on the terrace.
   
The Lodge

Overlooking a beautiful botanical garden, the five star guest lodge has been designed to blend in with its natural surroundings. The spacious lodge with hand painted murals, plush carpets, original art, an elegant dining room and cocktail bar, library, and a classically furnished lounge, which is complete with a grand piano, create an atmosphere of intimacy and elegance. The ten individually designed and air-conditioned suites at Makaranga, each open onto a private verandah.

Guests at the Makaranga Garden Lodge are invited to enjoy three meals a day served in the elegant dining room, or on the Tuscan Terrace. Morning and afternoon tea may also be provided for their pleasure. Facilities at this garden boutique hotel include a natural rock swimming pool, bowling green and putting green, all with full access for wheelchair users. Makaranga provides an unsurpassed sanctuary for the visitor to rest, rejuvenate and rediscover total harmony.

Gardens at Makaranga Lodge, Durban

Throughout the gardens guests will discover an impressive variety of both indigenous and exotic plants, including some rare and unique species. One of the most magical parts of the forest is along the moss-clad road, lined by magnificent Macaranga trees and lush vegetation. This quarter is home to many rare and exotic species of Orchid, Camellia, Magnolia and Rhododendron.

A qualified horticulturist is available on request. Visits will culminate on the Tuscan Terrace, which overlooks Venus Pond. Here guests can quietly contemplate the day's experiences while enjoying a variety of refreshments.

Health & Beauty Spa

The Health and Beauty Spa at the Makarenga Garden Lodge is a exclusive haven for anyone in need of pampering and rejuvenation. The Spa is set amidst the tranquil beauty of the Makaranga garden estate and offers a comprehensive treatment menu from facials to body wraps.

Featuring four air-conditioned treatment rooms and one wet room specifically adapted for hydrotherapy treatments, the spa also houses the latest in state-of-the-art equipment. A signature treatments includes the Chocolate Body wraps, Hot stone and Dual massages and spray tanning. The spa further offers a variety of packages or individual treatments which can be tailor made to suit the clients’ requirements.

Nearby attractions

The Valley of a Thousand Hills offers:

• Shopping and dinner theatre (Heritage Market)
• Cultural Village with Zulu dancing and a safari park (PheZulu)
• Golf course nearby
• Horse riding and polo at Shongweni Polo Club (9km distance)
• Hiking and walking in the spectacular Kloof Gorge, Kranzkloof Nature Reserve, Shongweni dam etc.
• Arts and crafts (beadwork, ceramics, woodwork, wire art etc.)
• Adventure tourism (paragliding, quad biking, watersports and more can be arranged)
• Steam train the first and last Sunday of every month departing from Kloof station for a fun day out.