EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF KWAZULU-NATAL AT MONTUSI MOUNTIAN LODGE
We experience the beauty of KwaZulu-Natal at the hidden gem of Montusi Drakensberg Resort.
Situated between Johannesburg and Durban, lies Montusi Mountain Lodge.
The lodge was established in 2000 by the Carte family, who first came across the farm in 1994.
Blown away by the breathtaking view of the Drakensberg mountains and Amphitheatre escarpment, the Carte family purchased the property and soon began developing it.
“The most important thing about Montusi as a development is that it is cohesive with the environment,” explains Lindsay du Plessis, Co-Owner of the Montusi Luxury Lodge.
For the development of the lodge, the Carte family opted for thatch roofing and kitted the interior of the lodge with down-lighting.
The main purpose of the design was to blend in with the surrounding environment and that extends to every aspect of the lodge, explains Du Plessis.
“When guests come to Montusi, they can expect a completely peaceful and relaxing environment where they can extend themselves physically,” says Du Plessis.
Montusi has also played its part in preserving the fauna and flora of the region and has spent the last ten years eradicating invasive plants from the area and focus on planting indigenous plants.
As a result of these efforts, the indigenous birdlife population has been flourishing around Montusi, which has brought in the likes of many avid birdwatchers, explains Du Plessis.
This year’s Mr World South Africa 1st runner up, Anthony Sikanadze, and Mr Gay South Africa 1st runner up, Bongs Ndima, were fortunate enough to experience Montusi and we got to tag along with them.
“I’ve never been to the Drakensberg before but my first impression of coming here is just wow,” exclaims Sikanadze.
The area surrounding Montusi is also considered a cultural experience as 40 000 bushman painting are still present on the mountainous landscape, stretching between Royal Natal and Bushman’s Neck.
Guided tours are available to some of these ancient artworks.
In addition to the guided tours, Montusi offers a range of activities including horse riding, fly fishing, mountain biking and golf.
Near the entrance of the lodge is an adventure centre where guests have access to even more exciting activities including free fall king swing, flying trapeze, bungee bouncing, zip lining and forested paintball.
“Coming to the Drakensberg has been amazing, spiritually, physically and mentally, I feel rejuvenated,” says Ndima.
