unnamed road South Africa Farm Rood, Central Drakensberg, 3340 Champagne Valley, South Africa
#1 of 37 hotels in Champagne Valley
Guests' ChoiceBased on 106 hotel reviews
9.4Cleanliness
9.5
Comfort
9.5
Location
9.5
Facilities
9.3
Staff
9.8
Value for money
9.4
Free WiFi
8.9
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End of dialog contentReviewed: 12 March 2024
Ivan
NetherlandsIt is not a criticism to the lodge per se, rather that we picked a shoulder season for the visit - and got caught by a storm at night, which made driving back a little more challenging (we had Toyota Corolla with low ground clearance). However, Ryan and Danny did offer to drive us back with their car, while Ryan would drive our car without luggage (thus maximising ground clearance) to the gate. It worked out perfectly - separate huge thanks for the guys for going an extra mile here.
A very secluded lodge with fantastic views over the valley and the Drakensberg mountains. We picked Mackaya Bella based on its location and private atmosphere, as well as great past reviews - and we indeed can conclude that it was an amazing decision to stay here (it's a pity we only did 2 nights, having stayed here, I think the reasonable minimum is 3 nights to be able to enjoy the trails to the fullest - but we were really short on time). There are currently only 3 guest accommodations at the property, and we did enjoy very personalised service. Ryan reached out in advance to offer free transfer should we not felt that our car was able to pass on the countryside road (which is currently under upgrade to cater for cars with low ground clearance. However, we were perfectly able to make it with Toyota Corolla), as well as some details on the dinner menu (the food was really fantastic, we totally recommend picking up package with dinner included). The room was spacious, with enough space for several large suitcases, it featured fully stocked bathroom with shower and a separate toilet, as well as tea/coffee amenities and a fan (which we didn't need, as open windows provided enough ventilation). There were 2 WiFi networks (incl. one via Starlink), which worked rather well - compared to many other hotels we've stayed in South Africa (well, given the location, we were surprised that the internet was available at all....). The breakfast was great with numerous options to order as well as buffet - and we were able to make use of tea/coffee/water facilities in the shared lounge. Another good thing - there were plenty of table games available, which was a good opportunity to spend time after a hike. Finally, the folks running this lodge - Ryan and Danny - were absolutely friendly and forthcoming, Danny organised a private guided hike for us, and we did enjoy a bit of a discussion during the breakfast time. To wrap it up, it was a 5* experience.
Stayed in March 2024
Reviewed: 10 January 2024
Nina
Netherlands-
Everything
Stayed in December 2023
Reviewed: 8 January 2024
Kirsten
South AfricaAccess is only possible with a vehicle with high clearance / 4x4 in the wet season (some driving skill required). A charge for transport to / from the lodge is mandatory should visitors not have a suitable vehicle. The cost of dinner is prohibitive for SA visitors with a very limited offering. Rooms not serviced unless requested.
The secluded area has the most spectacular views - exactly what we were looking for. Charming hosts.
Stayed in January 2024
Reviewed: 5 January 2024
Chantel
South AfricaThe property is in an amazing part of the Drakensburg with the soundings stunning and little to zero noise at most times of the day
Stayed in December 2023
Reviewed: 5 January 2024
Tolsma
South AfricaI'll suggest that the book in must be accompanied with a shuttle
Everything, friendliness, food and the natural beauty
Stayed in January 2024
Reviewed: 22 December 2023
Gary
United KingdomThe road isn’t 2 lane highway but that’s also part of the charm.
Spectacular location recently taken over by Ryan and Danny. They have many plans but we already loved it and them. Perfect spot and wonderful hosts I’m sure there is much they can do, it but for now we loved its simplicity, its location and the fabulous welcome. We will come back.
Stayed in December 2023
Reviewed: 5 December 2023
Mary
South AfricaWe would have liked somewhere to sit outside in the shade in the afternoon, as the summer sun really streamed down. But this is a wishlist item and not a problem!
We had a very comfortable stay. The Lodge is located in a quiet valley with an exceptional view of the Drakensberg. While we didn't have enough time to fully explore the property, there are some lovely walks and the national park is close by. The hosts were warm and really made us feel welcome. We chose to have the dinners, which were delicious and also meant that we could enjoy the beautiful sunset views without dashing around.
Stayed in December 2023
Reviewed: 4 December 2023
Julie
BelgiumWe had a blast staying at this property. The host made us feel very welcome, there was a cozy atmosphere, and we enjoyed the beautiful views all around. The team prepared incredible breakfast and dinner. The place was clean and comfortable. We went on small hikes on the property area and saw a couple of animals such as baboons. Parking on the property is possible, the drive there is an adventure on its own which we thought was really a part of the experience of enjoying a hotel in a more rural place.
Stayed in September 2023
Reviewed: 1 November 2023
Katerina
South AfricaEverything was good!
Fantasic location! Mountains, rivers and amazing bird life. Friendly staff willing to go the extra mile.
Stayed in October 2023
Reviewed: 15 October 2023
Keagan
South AfricaN/A
Breakfast was excellent and more than enough. The location was so tranquil with a beautiful view of the mountain. Perfect for outdoors people and hikers.
Stayed in October 2023
Reviewed: 25 September 2023
Eloise
South AfricaNothing.
Everything about it was just perfect for me. Ryan was a fantastic host, and the staff were very friendly. The food was delicious, and one will definitely not go hungry. Great ambiance all round. If one is looking for a little slice of heaven, this is definitely the place to go. It's very peaceful, beautiful, and majestic all in one. I will definitely be back and looking forward to my next visit there.
Stayed in September 2023
Reviewed: 1 September 2023
Joseph
FranceMackaya Bella Country Lodge is located in a secret valley below Cathkin Peak. A mountain stream, the Sterkspruit, meanders through indigenous forests, and the whole area is being rewilded. Many animals inhabit the site, and if you are lucky, you may encounter them. Ryan, the lodge's host, is also a committed guide to its many wonders: if you are a committed guest, he may share them with you.
Stayed in August 2023
Reviewed: 19 August 2023
Etienne
United KingdomThe inbound road requires SUV/4×4 but we were made aware of this beforehand and it adds to the experience. No complaints at all!
Mackaya Bella is a lovely mountain lodge offering B&B with exceptional hosts. The staff were equally superb and the food was outstanding. Ryan and Danny made us feel welcome and engaged, providing local insights and advice on activities nearby. Ntombi introduced us to some traditional cuisine and prepared a variety of fresh, locally sourced, meals which were delicious. We spent our honeymoon at Mackaya Bella and will definitely be returning!
Stayed in August 2023
Reviewed: 15 August 2023
Hundp
GermanyThe French coffee was good, but a proper espresso machine would top it!
Fantastic place with phenomenal view of the Drakensberg Mountains. Great smaller hikes starting direktly at the lodge. Best breakfast in the region, very creative. And if you like a bit of excitement, you also will enjoy the private "road" getting there. We were one of the first guests under the new owners, Ryan and Danny. They are lovely hosts who have a vision of making this place (which we think is already exceptional) a jewel in Drakensberg Mountains. Thank-you so much for the wonderful stay we had and all the best for the future.
Stayed in July 2023
Reviewed: 15 August 2023
Dianne
United KingdomNothing, all good!
Everything- cosy, relaxed, perfect setting!
Stayed in August 2023
Reviewed: 5 August 2023
Sandra
BelgiumNothing
The (new) owners Ryan and Danny did realy everything to make us confortable. They are realy very nice, tell you about the region, culture, they arranged food for us, heat the fire.The lady at the breakfast prepared us tasty dishes and very gentle. The place has i think the most beautiful view of Drakensberge. My husband even got goosebumps while entering . Highly recommanded
Stayed in August 2023
Reviewed: 1 August 2023
Henriette
NetherlandsNothing, it was perfect!
The hosts Ryan and Danny were very welcoming and friendly. It was as if we were visiting friends. They were so nice and we had many nice conversations. Every evening they made us a fire. They also ordered food for us, when we were very tired in the evening. The breakfasts were lovely and finally something else to choose besides bacon and eggs. They told us what nice trails you can walk from their place. We saw rock paintings for over thousands of years old and a beautiful old forest with lots of moss on the trees. Wow! Also the view from the lodge is absolutely gorgeous! Definitely recommended.
Stayed in July 2023
Reviewed: 28 July 2023
Valentijn
BelgiumLocation was stunning! Accommodation was very nice and the hosts were very friendly. Hope to come back to this place!
Stayed in July 2023
Reviewed: 11 July 2023
Engel
South AfricaAmazing view and great staff
Stayed in July 2023
Reviewed: 1 May 2023
Nafakudze
South AfricaNothing at all
Lynden and Pat were such great hosts
Stayed in April 2023
Reviewed: 1 April 2023
Robertas
Lithuanianothing
The lodge is in a spectacular location with a unique view of the Drakensberg Mountains. The hosts are very nice and friendly. We had a little damage to the car, so they helped us fix it. We are very grateful to them for this. We highly recommend staying here for those who want to spend time in beautiful nature.
Stayed in March 2023
Reviewed: 20 March 2023
Brendon
South AfricaPat and Lyn where absolute wonderful hosts.the facility was quiet clean and tranquil.welll prepared and thoughtful in every regard . it was a unexpected and overall wonderful experience.and will be back
Stayed in March 2023
Reviewed: 17 March 2023
Daniella
South AfricaThe road to the lodge can be a little tricky with some muddy uneven areas and an exciting bridge crossing but the hosts were extremely helpful in navigating this. I enjoyed a bit of off-roading fun and my car (not a 4x4) managed perfectly. Just a heads up for more timid drivers!
A lovely BnB in the most phenomenal location! Really stunning views and wonderful communal area to relax in. The breakfasts were delicious and the communal kitchen area is very well stocked to meet all your needs. The hosts were extremely accommodating and informative about the area with ideas of where to eat, activities to do in the area, hiking routes and a daily loadshedding schedule. I had a lovely stay at Mackaya Bella and felt very welcome! Thank you for having me!
Stayed in March 2023
Reviewed: 6 March 2023
Carl
South AfricaNothing to report.
We loved the location, beautiful views, hiking and fishing. The hosts were friendly and very helpful. Will certainly visit again. We really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed in March 2023
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