Birches Cottages in Underberg, KwaZulu Natal (original) (raw)

Birches Cottages is a highly recommended B&B with self catering option, providing accommodation in Underberg for anyone visiting the Drakensberg region.

In a quiet corner of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg World Heritage Park, with the cascading Umzimkulu river bounding one side and blue mountain sky the other, lie Birches and Willows Cottages.

Set in a private garden on the six-hectare Brittlewood riverfront estate, the Birches and Willows combine luxurious country living with a host of outdoor adventures, self-drive activities and cultural pursuits.

Accommodation

Birches Cottage
Birches Cottage is a luxury suite, offering accommodation for two adults with an extra-length king size bed. The cottage consists of a kitchenette, lounge and dining area, a spacious bedroom and a bathroom with a separate bath and shower and his/hers basins. A cosy gas fire and electric blankets are provided to counter the chilly Underberg winter nights.

The beds are dressed in percale linen and the embroidered duvets are filled with duck down. Floors are covered in sumptuous thick-pile carpets while the cottage walls are adorned with collector's hand-coloured photographs and original paintings.

Willows Cottage
Willows Cottage is a luxury bedsit suited to the shorter term and overnight traveller. Accommodating two persons on a king size bed or adjoining single beds, its luxurious appointment includes a bar fridge, microwave and beverage preparation area.

The beds are dressed in sheer percale linen, duck down duvets and electric blankets. The bathroom has a separate bath and shower and a luxury vanity. The walls are hung with black and white photographs of the Underberg region.

Breakfast and Dining

Guests enjoy their breakfast and experience refined hospitality in the Continental setting of our very own Lemon Tree Bistro, which was voted a finalist in the 2011 Sunday Tribune Caf� Society Awards. Breakfasts are also served in the estate's gardens on request.

Activities and Attractions

As no more than four guests visit the six-hectare estate at one time, you are guaranteed privacy and ample opportunity to enjoy its attractions. There are twelve decks and view points connected by two kilometres of meandering footpaths overlooking the spectacular Umzimkulu Gorge. Secluded alcoves allow you to withdraw, perhaps meditate for a while.

The little Patience Plunge Pool is washed with river water and tucked in a grove of birches half way to the river. While romance is bound to enhance the sunsets from Moonrise Deck, champagne with cheese and biscuits on Barbecue Deck as you watch otters frolic in the river below will be an unforgettable experience.

The cottage is free standing and set in a garden with a private barbecue. A French boulle patch and herb garden are set nearby for your use and numerous water features articulate the ebb and flow of life.

While the cottage and garden provide sumptuous comfort, consummate enjoyment is realised only through all-round engagement. Come to Brittlewood riverfront estate not only to admire the breathtaking view but pause to celebrate significant moments. Experience four palpable seasons, misty nights and the endless blue sky.

Come swim in the river and ramble the hills. Search for autumn mushrooms and the first wild asparagus of spring. Reflect on the wildflowers and the dew-spangled grass. Be early to bed and catch the giant kingfisher diving at dawn. Rediscover the elusive essence of life. Rediscover yourself.