Karkloof Spa

Set in the unspoilt wilderness of the Karkloof Valley, with 3,000 hectares of private estate to explore, Karkloof feels far removed from civilisation yet is only 30 minutes from the city of Pietermaritzburg.

Karkloof’s 16 villas are each private and individually decorated, with a stylish yet rugged aesthetic reflecting the wilderness outside with extensive use of wood and stone. The villas feature beautiful stone floors, with underfloor heating to combat the chilly nights, and huge bathrooms with marble fittings. Ceilings feature exposed beams and thatchwork, and huge sliding doors open out onto verandas with panoramic views over the Karkloof Valley.

Menus at Karkloof change daily according to the availability of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Produce is sourced from local farms and producers and combines Asian and European flavours; impala is among the more unusual meat dishes which crops up. In keeping with the resort’s health-centric focus, all menus have raw food options, and gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian diets are also catered for. It’s up to you whether to eat in the dining room or the privacy of your own villa, and mealtimes are completely flexible too. For when you’re heading out on an excursion during the day, an extensive picnic basket will be prepared for you featuring goodies from local artisanal producers.

Karkloof’s spa is arguably its main attraction, with a range of world-class treatments on offer in a beautiful environment made from locally-sourced wood and stone. The team of expert Thai therapists use a range of organic products in their treatments, which encompass facials, massages and body wraps among many others. Yoga classes are also on offer, led by an experienced teacher. There’s also a beautiful pool with adjacent deck, and a library stocked with a range of books, newspapers and magazines.

Karkloof Safari Spa is surrounded by 3,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, home to a wide variety of fauna including rhino, buffalo, hippo, giraffe and zebra. White and black rhino can also be spotted on guided game drives, while over 300 bird species have been observed living in this area, making it a great destination for bird watchers. Nearby Karkloof Falls is a stunning spot well worth the hike, one of five waterfalls within the reserve; the rare Karkloof blue butterfly can be spotted flitting above the spray. Mountain biking, on or off the marked trails, is a great way to explore the park, and fly fishing for yellow tail, bass and tilapia is also on offer in the estate’s rivers.