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Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve

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Portion 3 of farm Kaalbooi 368JT, Waterval Onder 1195 South Africa
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Traveller (5)
Room & Suite (10)
Pool & Beach (7)

About

#1 of 1 lodge in Waterval Onder
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Situated 260 km from Johannesburg on the Waterval Boven - Nelspruit Road, Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve embraces an enclosed valley of approximately 257 hectares of some of the most beautiful mountain country to be found in the Waterval Boven district. The climate is typical of summer rainfall areas. Winter and summer mean temperatures of between 6c in winter and 34c in summer, can be expected. Nourished by the Joubert Spruit tributary of the Elands River, the natural water supply is fountain fed from the mountain tops and of the highest quality. At no stage during the past 60 years has the stream ever dried up. The Nature Reserve is ecologically contained and home to many species of fauna e.g. Bushbuck, Baboon, Klipspringer, Duiker, Steenbok, Vaal Reedbuck, Vervet Monkeys, Leopard, Genet, Rooikat, Rock Pythons etc. Bird life includes, Black Eagle, Steppe Buzzard, various Kites and Falcon. Rich in natural and South African history, the kloof (gorge) and slopes of the valley once housed President Paul Kruger's Commandos during the period of his escape to exile via Lourenco Marques (Maputo). Circular rock encampments with old Martini Henry rifle shells and enamel mugs used by the Boer soldiers and Scouts are sometimes unearthed on the property.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Paid wifi
Lazy river
Breakfast available
Hiking
Water park
Books, DVDs, music for children
Children's playground
Parking
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Shallow end in pool
Breakfast buffet
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Wine / champagne
Billiards
Patio
Board games / puzzles
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Kids pool
Kids' outdoor play equipment
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Umbrella
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
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Room features
Desk
Fireplace
Private balcony
Seating area
Kitchenette
Cable / satellite TV
Sofa bed
Walk-in shower
Sofa
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Clothes rack
Private bathrooms
Microwave
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Flatscreen TV
Radio
Complimentary toiletries
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Room types
Mountain view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans, German
77Reviews2Q+A2Room tips
Traveller rating
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Louise V wrote a review Nov 2023
Nelspruit, South Africa2 contributions
We had such a lovely stay. Our campsite had shade all day and the whole camps grass is kept neat and clean. The ablutions are very clean. The dogs can run free, and they enjoyed swimming in the waterfall with us, what a beautiful hike!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: November 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Hiking_GetAways wrote a review Nov 2023
Johannesburg, South Africa1 contribution
Our hiking group of 16 people camped at Rocky Drift over the weekend of 27 October to experience the hiking trails on the property. We had previously done a day hike on the reserve in June 2022, and so impressed the picturesque beauty and pristine environment that we decided to return for a camping weekend. We were not disappointed. The camp sites are immaculate and well laid out. The ablutions are the best I have experienced at any camp site, and would not be out of place in a 3 star hotel. We had dinner at the restaurant and the service was impeccable and with great food. A big thank you to Warren and Sam for their wonderful service and hospitality
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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csflett wrote a review Nov 2023
1 contribution
We chose to stay in the cottage, whereas the rest of our hiking group were camping. It worked out perfectly, we participated in all the group activities, whilst having our own space. The venue offers fantastic hikes in a lush setting, with many river crossings and waterfalls.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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MiekeJ444 wrote a review Oct 2023
1 contribution
We had a wonderful getaway camping at your beautiful oasis. The pristine nature and fresh air is better than medicine! Can't wait to escape to your little heaven again. The upgrades done to the campsites and ablution facilities since last year is amazing - keep it up!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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yerasmus2023 wrote a review Jul 2023
1 contribution
We have been there more than once and not only was the nature scenery and hiking trials breathtakingly beautiful, but the way we were treated and the food we received was fantastic. Everything was excellent. We were treated like friends, with so much warmth and attention to detail. An absolute delight!!!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: November 2022
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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maritawelman wrote a review Jul 2023
1 contribution
We went camping with our 2 dogs, I dont know who enjoyed it the most, us or them. We are definitly going back very soon. We are so glad that we found this beautiful place. Warren were so kind and helpful. We just love it there.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: July 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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639janine wrote a review May 2023
1 contribution
We had a wonderful time. Surrounding is so beautiful and save. Accommodation is top quality neat all you need for comfortable stay and own cooking. Hosts are kind and friendly and the very good cooks. Will for sure visit again.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: May 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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bianca716 wrote a review May 2023
1 contribution
We had a great time. I'm not sure whether the dog or the kids enjoyed it more. The routes are well marked and restaurant had great food. The place is family run which is very nice. We will definitely go back again.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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JoeCBansteadUK wrote a review May 2023
Bracknell, United Kingdom491 contributions306 helpful votes
This review is relatively objective being my 16th road trip, this time staying at 14 properties over 39 nights. I stayed solo for 3 nights in February. Easily found off the N4 (far enough away for no noise) decent gravel road in suitable for sedans. Warren was a very pleasant, efficient and welcoming host. I stayed in riverside chalet 5. Large, clean, well maintained and equipped for self catering and very comfortable. There are lovely dogs on site, but they don’t intrude if they sense you are ‘non doggy’. No cellphone reception, but WiFi was good (subject to load shedding). The riverside site is very pleasant and well maintained without being over manicured. The riverside camp sites looked good with water, power and braai areas.. The childrens play/adventure and pool area looked as if it would be fun for them. I didn’t self cater, but took meals in the restaurant, which were decent basic food at fair prices. Beer was always cold! Some 4/5 star establishments in the Drakensberg should take note of the well marked and maintained hiking routes - they really were excellent. Be prepared for wet feet when crossing the river unless drought conditions prevail. Would stay again if in the area - highly recommended.
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Date of stay: February 2023
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Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Clairebear8313 wrote a review Apr 2023
1 contribution
Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve was an absolute treat. Beautifully located in a valley next to a river, the scenery and tranquillity is to die for. The hosts (Warren and Sam) could not do enough for us and even with the added challenges of load shedding we had everything we needed. The food was amazing, the breakfast box plentiful and Warren's steaks were incredible. We would 100% recommend staying here and we will definitely be back.
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Date of stay: April 2023
Value
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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PRICE RANGE
US$52 - US$85 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Rockydrift Nature Reserve
LOCATION
South AfricaMpumalangaWaterval Onder
NUMBER OF ROOMS
10
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ROCKY DRIFT PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE - Now R 894 (Was R̶ ̶9̶5̶0̶) - UPDATED 2023 Lodge Reviews & Price Comparison (Waterval Onder, South Africa) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve
Which popular attractions are close to Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
Nearby attractions include Tegwaan Country Getaway Hiking Trails (3.1 km), Stone Circle Museum (4.8 km), and Mountain Biking At Tranquilitas Farm (3.7 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free parking, breakfast buffet, and kids activities.
Which room amenities are available at Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, a flat screen TV, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
Guests can enjoy breakfast, barbeque facilities, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
Conveniently located restaurants include Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve, Stone Circle Country Kitchen, and Acra Retreat - Mountain View Lodge.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
Yes, guests have access to an outdoor pool during their stay.
Are pets allowed at Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, German, and Afrikaans.
Are there any historical sites close to Rocky Drift Private Nature Reserve?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Stone Circle Museum (4.8 km).