Karkloof Spa, located just 24 kilometers from Pietermartizburg, in KwaZulu Natal's magnificent Midlands, is a tranquil but uplifting haven for those setting out on a journey to wellness and restoration. It also offers guests an opportunity to absorb the sights and sounds of Africa in a private enclave, which provides one of the continent's most exhilarating ecological experiences.
 
Set in a verdant bowl, surrounded by towering cliffs, with the shimmering waters of the Albert Falls Dam in view, the Spa and its luxurious boutique hotel provide levels of intimate exclusivity and personalised service unparalleled in this part of Africa. Karkloof Spa is a world class facility, blending the best of the globe's major spas with a uniquely African sensibility. It will capture your imagination and invite you to submit mind and body to a complete revitalisation process.
 
The waters of the Umgeni and the Karkloof rivers converge on this 3500 hectare property, which abounds with herds of game, the white rhino being the major attraction. Within an hour and a quarter from Durban, by road, and five hours from Johannesburg, apart from being close to Pietermaritzburg's airport, the Spa comprises a splendidly appointed boutique lodge, in addition to its multi-faceted spa treatment centre.
 
Boasting 16 individually decorated, sumptuous villas, all of which feature spacious bathrooms with double baths, modern conveniences, satellite TV, complimentary Internet access, under-floor heating, air-conditioning, complimentary mini bars and espresso machines, the lodge is designed to complement its splendid surroundings. Africa's heritage is embodied in every design detail, but without sacrificing elegance and sophistication.
The focus of Karkloof Spa, however, is the unparalleled “green” spa and wellness centre, where your time is your own to enjoy, and where you can experience the variety of treatments at your own pace. In fact every aspect of your stay at Karkloof Spa is to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace – dine when it suits you, indulge in one of our five signature spa journeys or devote time to exploring the landscape and viewing the wildlife.
 
The spa features 17 generous, airy treatment rooms (two of which are couples rooms), all with wonderful views over the native bush and surrounding gardens, a four-chair Manicure/Pedicure room, Rassoul, Flotation Pool, Kneipp Pools, Jacuzzi, Sauna and Steam rooms. The eco-design incorporates natural materials with thatch and living roofs (soil and planting on top, where small animals can graze). All Thai therapists have been handpicked, worldwide, for their talents, and they mix products for individual treatments using fresh ingredients.
 
Other activities on the property are diverse and include walking, hiking, mountain biking, game viewing, birding, or just relaxing in your own private hideaway.
Disease free buffalo and black and white rhino roam this spectacular terrain, together with various small carnivores, numerous antelope species, including the elegant nyala, zebra, giraffe and wildebeest. The property is undeniably amongst the most picturesque on the African continent, nestling in the almost cinematic splendours of the Karkloof Valley. There are five waterfalls, various dams and three rivers, all located within its confines, which makes for an amazingly varied landscape and flora. The area's mist belt forests and thickets, open plains and riverine valleys all contribute to guests' sense of peace and restoration.
 
Blend these natural assets with the careful attention to detail, personalised service and unfailing standards of African hospitality, not to mention the lodge's superb cuisine and outstanding wine cellar, and you have an experience to be savoured by the most discerning clientèle.