High in the foothills of the Northern Drakensberg, surrounded by towering mountains, forests and streams is our unique family resort. The Carte family has owned the Cavern for over sixty years and from the outset have given guests memorable family holidays - not just a stay at a good Hotel.

At The Cavern we appreciate that it is people who make your holiday - people with whom to laugh, share a drink, and participate in all the many fun activities.

Without obliging anyone to do anything, we encourage our guests to mix on outings and sit together at meals. Friendships form here and folk come back time and again - hence the slogan originated by our guests in 1958: "The holiday resort of many happy returns"

This is what a day at the Cavern can mean for you:

After breakfast, you can join in the guided party hiking into the hills for morning tea and to explore the indigenous forests where woodcutters felled yellowwood trees over a hundred years ago. Study bushman paintings, view the unspoilt splendour of one of natures finest mountain creations where the pressures of traffic and time do not exist. Swim in a 'berg stream before returning with heightened appetites for a tasty lunch.

There's horse riding, tennis, bowls, volley ball, swimming or trout fishing. Relaxing and enjoying the view from the front lawn on a summer's evening, or sitting in the lounge around a cosy log fire in winter, lead to sundowner conversations with new friends. This unsophisticated, well earned relaxation is what Drakensberg holidays are really about. After an enjoyable dinner, you can participate in some organised entertainment, watch TV, play pool or table tennis, or just chat!

Don't forget to bring:

- Walking shoes
- Flat shoes for bowls/ putting Tennis Togs
- Umbrella Swimming Towels
- Clothing suitable for all weather
- Trout fishing tackle - permits are available

Dining: Our Friendly staff welcome you to our dining room where a Table d' hote menu offers a wide choice at every meal. Weekly functions include 'Lunch in the Sun', 'Boma Buffets' and 'Potjie Pots'. A range of beers and a selection of South African wines are available. The Emaweni Cave bar is fully licensed, and operates between 12h00 & 23h00.

Dress: Dress for Dinner is 'elegantly casual': no shorts, T-shirts or sportswear.

Evening entertainment: A dance is held on Saturdays and during the week we organise games evenings and other entertainment.

Walks/ Hikes: Guided morning walks to one of our many beauty spots take place daily. Walkers are rewarded with freshly brewed tea and Cavern biscuits at their destination. Day hikes are organised on request. In season, challenging hikes are organised on request. In season, challenging hikes include the Amphitheatre, Tugela gorge, The Cavern's 'Big 5' and other spectacular destinations.

Tuckshop: A well stocked tuck and curio shop is open during office hours.

Emaweni Cave Bar: The themed cave bar operates from 12h00 until 23h00.

Horse Rides: Morning rides are for the more experienced riders. Afternoon rides are generally shorter and for the less ambitious.

Regret Strictly No Pets

Rates
Inclusive of accommodation in attractive thatched lodgings, three meals daily, teas and most activities; access to our exceptional wilderness through guided walks; evening entertainment and communal TV lounges.