Tugela Rapids
Quick Facts
E 29°25'32''
Budget Getaways Review
This airy number on the banks of the Tugela River is true to its name. Big on nature, big on views, big on rustic and big on privacy it's tailormade for groups who place big skies and seclusion higher than personal space.
Beautifully appointed along an aloe-covered slope that gazes directly onto the river, the cabin offers two bedrooms, one on ground level, the other a loft, and each with four single beds.
The kitchen is fully equipped with gas stove, fridge and freezer. You’re off the grid here, so it’s gas and solar all round. More off the (braai) grid living can be had via the indoor and outdoor braai areas.
Alongside the cottage you have a sociable stone and thatch lapa with comfy couches, a kitchen area and a deck overhanging the river.
Your bathroom is sensibly housed in a separate thatch building, and comprises two loos and hot-water shower.
There’s loads to keep you busy on and around the farm, with a strong focus on the river itself - tubing, swimming and general frolicking. Farm walks, visiting the farm animals, bird watching, and scope for mountain biking are also on the to-do list.
If you need to top up on supplies, the farming hubs of Bergville and Winterton are a short drive away.
Simple, comfy and rustic, getting back to basics has never been better.
"We had an amazing time at Tugela Rapids. The place is rustic but well decorated, the surroundings stunning, the views incredible, and you have absolutely everything you need in the kitchen! Roz was super charming and always willing to make your stay pleasant. We will definitely come back!"
(, May 2015)
"We spent a really wonderful weekend at Tugela Rapids. If peace and tranquility is what you are looking for and if nature is your passion then this is the place to stay! The bird life is phenomenal and the sound of the farm animals close by very comforting. The Tugela River's constant babbling lulls you into a peaceful sleep.The amenities are very clean and well-kept, Trevor and Roz have ensured that there is nothing lacking. A lot of attention to detail.There is plenty of hot water and nothing is too much trouble for the Wood's. We fed the lambs and spent a lovely hour with Trevor and Roz and their dogs at the homestead. We have found a treasure and will definitely visit again and again. Thank you for a wonderful stay Trevor and Roz."
(, May 2015)
"It is a very beautiful and in a quiet setting. It is nice to drive through the fields with cows and horses."
(, May 2015)
"Roz and Trev have built the most "get-away-from-it all" accommodation that is a true paradise. The location is 4km from the road and so the only noise disturbance is that of the Tugela River flowing beneath the deck and the chatter of the abundant birds. The accommodation is described as rustic, but the beds are amazingly comfortable, the kitchen was the best equipped one we had during our 3 week tour of South Africa. The lapa was so comfortable and cosy with its sofas and open fire. We stayed with our children, aged 10, 12 and 14, who enjoyed making use of the tubes to float in the river. Coming from the UK I also found the communication with Roz very easy, with her responding to my many emails immediately. Fabulous hosts and the best accommodation. "
(, May 2015)
"Braaiing, tubing and swimming in the Tugela, hiking, feeding the lambs, stargazing, catching up with old friends, snoozing, reading a book, sundowners on the deck: we had a fabulous Easter at Tugela Rapids! A wonderful secluded getaway, built with stones from the land, wood from the forest and grass from the veld, powered by solar and gas and fresh air, and fueled by the hospitality of Roz and Trevor: a gem!"
(, May 2015)
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