About Qambathi Mountain Lodge

Qambathi Mountain Lodge is set in the heart of the Kamberg Valley, within the central Drakensberg. At the heart of the lodge stands the original farmhouse, built in 1918. It now houses the dining room, kitchen and two guest rooms, while retaining its original character. Surrounding buildings once served as a post office, classroom, greenhouse, stables and milking sheds, reflecting a time when the farm functioned as a self-contained rural hub. The cottage, now a peaceful retreat, was originally used as a small holding jail for cattle thieves. These layers of history have been preserved rather than erased, giving Qambathi a strong sense of place and authenticity.

ROOM TYPES AND FEATURES

Farmhouse: Step into a blend of history and luxury in a beautifully restored original farmhouse, built in 1918 and now the heart of Qambathi Mountain Lodge. This entry-level suite opens directly onto the pool deck, with easy access to the bar, and wine cellar. Relax in a handcrafted super king Camphor bed and soak in the freestanding bath, or enjoy the separate shower with luxury amenities.

Barnes: Set within the historic 1918 farmhouse, this suite offers a beautiful blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. Enjoy a restful night in a handmade Camphor super king bed, with his and hers sinks and lush garden views from your bathroom. The spa bath with rain shower invites pure relaxation, while private access to the pool deck and lounge makes unwinding effortless.

Classroom: This historic Zulu-style rondavel with a thatch roof, once used over 50 years ago for homeschooling, is full of charm and character. Featuring a handmade Camphor double bed, this cozy room includes a freestanding bath with panoramic views, a separate walk-in shower, and a private deck with hanging chairs overlooking the gardens and mountains.

Greenhouse: This spacious and beautifully appointed suite features a private deck with hanging chairs and a wraparound deck offering breathtaking mountain views. Inside a handmade Camphor super king bed promises restful sleep, complemented by a freestanding bath with serene garden views,a separate walk-in shower and blackout curtains .

Stable: Once a humble stable, now transformed into a luxurious honeymoon suite, this historic room famously hosted Tom Cruise during his stay. As the largest suite, it boasts panoramic views right from your bed, with a cozy fireplace for winter nights and a private deck with hanging chairs to soak in the scenery. Relax in a handmade Camphor super king bed, a freestanding bath, and a separate walk-in shower. The suite includes it’s own personal hot tub and blackout curtains.

Each room has:

• Tea and coffee facilities
• Nespresso machine
• Slippers and robes
• In-room safe
• USB charging points
• Hairdryer
• Drinking water
• Wi-Fi

The Homestead:
Homestead is a spacious three-bedroom cottage, perfect for families or friends. Think slow mornings on the verandah, mountain light in every room, and easy access to trails and farm life. Fully equipped kitchen, cosy lounge with fireplace, and outdoor braai area – just bring your people.
Bed setup:
Bedroom 1: King (en-suite shower) (or twin)
Bedroom 2: Queen (or twin)
Bedroom 3: Twin (2 singles)

Set a little apart from the main lodge, Homestead gives you the freedom of a private home with the comforts of Qambathi. Cook together in a well-equipped kitchen, gather around the fire after a day on the trails, and watch the Drakensberg sky from the verandah. Three restful bedrooms sleep up to six, with two bathrooms for an easy stay. Wi-Fi, smart TV, and daily servicing on request keep things effortless; a braai area keeps it festive. It’s the perfect base for families, couples travelling together, or a long weekend with friends.

• Non-smoking environment
• Pet friendly
• Large wood fired hot tub
• Patio and braai
• All linen and towels
• Serviced daily
• Hairdryer
• Room safe
• Tea & coffee facilities (incl. Nespresso)
• Natural handmade guest products
• WiFi
• 2 wood fire places
• TV with DSTV

LODGE FEATURES AND ACTIVITIES

• General Stay
• Breakfast
• 5-course dinner
• Adults-only environment (16+)
• Privacy-focused stay
• Secure parking
• Drinks available from the bar
• Day trips & activities available
• Picnic & lunch options
• Conservation levy: R40 per person per night
• Attentive, unobtrusive service
• Peaceful lodge setting, ideal for unwinding

Activities to do: Helicopter rides, horse experiences, wine, gin or beer tasting (pre booking essential), guided hiking and fishing, fishing rod rental available, walking or hiking trials, spa treatments, picnic or romantic dinners, stargazing, wildlife (Zebras, Bushbok, Springbok,Reedbuck, Red Hartebeest Blesbok, Impala, Eland, Serval and more. There are over 200 birds, also boasting one of the last remaining forests in the Kamberg. Guests can enjoy the small forest trail at their leisure, which is great for birding.

Features

Additional Activities

• Trout Fishing
• Kamberg Rock Art Centre
• Highmoor Nature Reserve
• Golf
• Mountain Biking
• Spa