St Bernard's Peak Mountain Lodge

St Bernard's Peak Mountain Lodge

Description

This portion of the Drakensberg, is dominated by the Ithule Ridge, of which St Bernard’s Peak is part of. At the back of the Lodge, the Ntshungwane Ridge runs down to form the other natural boundary. The Mfelamadoda River provides the water into the large dam across the valley. The area has Caves, some with Bushman Paintings and the streams that flow into the dam, are part of the charm of this very attractive area.

FOOD

Sumptuous farm house meals are prepared in our St Bernard’s kitchen.

A hearty English breakfast is an essential start to the day, this includes
fruit, health muffins, cereals, eggs, bacon and toast.

Lunches consist of a tasty main meal and dessert.

Dinner comprises of a starter, main and dessert.

A traditional braai or spit is frequently the focus of our Saturday evenings,
while for Sunday lunch we have a starter, succulent roasts (complete with
Yorkshire puds) and dessert.

We have a fully stocked Ladies Bar, which is perfect for celebrations,
sporting events or even a quiet drink by a burning log fire.

HISTORY

St Bernard’s Peak was established around 1890 and was originally called “Middle Valley”.

The thatched cottages in the gardens were built by Frans Vetter in about 1948.

Ian and Cheri took over the lodge in April 1998 and have gone from strength to strength building new friendships with the regular guests.

The lodge has undergone extensive repairs and renovations but has not lost any of its rustic character.

We would be extremely interested to hear of any further information or pictures you have of St Bernard’s.

PRESS

St Bernard’s has received press in National Papers and Magazines:

Mountain Echo
Peter Maxwell at the Peak
St Bernard’s Mountain Lodge or The Peak as it is known to many locals put on a smashing show on Saturday 26th February when they hosted Peter Maxwell and invited the locals to come and enjoy an evening of music, laughter, good food and companionship.
Having heard of Peter but not having the opportunity, previously, of attending one of his shows, it was decided that now was as good a time as ever. But also known the road to the Peak can be a bit rough, especially when it rains, it was also decided to book for the night. A wise decision – especially when the party usually continues into the wee hours of the next morning.
Dinner was served before the show, with soup, home made breads, roast beef, Yorkshire pud, Lamb Curry, Chicken Schnitzels, Roasted Veg & Potatoes, followed by Triffle, Yummy Tart & Choc Sauce. And then the show began.
Peter is no spring chicken, being in his 70’s but once he starts tickling the ivory, you would think he is half his age. His piano playing is magnificent. In fact the last time I have heard such an excellent performance was in the Ball Room at Blackpool Tower, where the organ rises twice a day from beneath the floor to entertain visitors. But that organ player has definitely not got what Peter has in his repertoire. He sings, tells stories & jokes, and takes the Mickey out of his audience – all the while playing his piano in the most unbelievable fashion. Listening to him was pure pleasure for all of us, and congratulations to the owners Ian & Cheri for a most memorable evening.
Of course there were others who contributed towards making the evening such a success – the “Dr Barman”, the short Ian, the Chef and many more – thanks to one and all.
By Lesley Emmerson
February 2005

Mountain Echo
By this time the chaps were in a bit of a hurry as there was Rugby on TV that could not be missed! Finally we reached St Bernard’s Mountain Lodge just in time. Disembarking and stretching to ease muscles, each person headed for the place they needed most. The pub, the TV or the loo! The day had started out chilly but turned into the most perfect day anyone could have wished for. Warm, clear and for once not a breath of wind. Everyone agreed, as they tucked into the large plate of steak, egg and chips provided by the lodge, and sipping their favourite tipple, that it was time well spent and day to be remembered..
John Emmerson
July 2004

South African Country Life
For a little bit of luxury – the fully catered type – we ended our perusal of the Swartberg with a stay at St Bernard’s Peak Mountain Lodge. Here, the thatched chalets and tranquil gardens rest under a soft canopy of oak trees, and hearty country meals are taken in the main stone building

So when you are ready for your next break away from it all take a drive out towards Swartberg and savour some of its secret treasures. You are guaranteed warm hospitality, a tranquil environment, great fishing, and adventures that will make your stay a memorable one.
Shanon Davis
March 2004

Welcome To St Bernard's Peak

Contact Details Ian & Cheri +27 (0) 39 747 4313 +27 (0) 39 747 4313 Enquire now View Rates View Directions

Attractions

Fully licensed Ladies’ Bar
Walks
Trout Fishing – please bring your own rod
Horse riding
Swimming
Tennis
Table tennis
Croquet
Pool Table
Darts
Volley-ball
Mini Golf
Trampoline
Television in main building

Attractions

Other Activities
During the summer months (in season) activities include:
Picnics
Swimming in rock pools & waterfalls
Tubing on the river

Horse Riding
Excellent horse riding experience. Choose from 1 – 4 hour rides or by the day. Overnight rides by arrangement. Superb horse riding country, breath taking views and fantastic trails. An experience not to be missed.

Bird Watching
Hear the call of the wild in this beautiful setting, which is the perfect
place for avid or amateur bird watchers alike. Over 150 different bird
species have so far been spotted.

Some of the birds you are likely to see are:

OUR NATIONAL BIRD & CRITICALLY ENDANGERED: Blue Crane
CRITICALLY ENDANGERED: Crown Crane, South African Wattle Crane
ENDANGERED: Bearded Vulture, Cape Vulture
MIGRATORY BIRDS: Eastern Red Footed Kestrel, European Swallow
OTHER BIRDS OF INTEREST: Black Eagle, African Fish Eagle, Giant Eagle Owl, Giant Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Malachite Kingfisher, Fiscal Shrike,Lesser Moorhen, Secretary Bird, Black Headed Oriole, Red Billed Woodpecker, Paradise Flycatcher, Weavers, Red & Golden Bishop, Buntings, Fan Tailed & Lazy Cisticola

Don’t forget to bring your bird book and binoculars!
An extensive bird list is available at our Reception.

Artists
An artists paradise with spectacular sunsets, blazing red and orange skies. From season to season the hues change from golden yellow and ambers to luscious shades of greens. The artists pallet is never dull with picturesque waterfalls, dams, streams, mountains, vegetation, wildlife, as well as the beautiful St Bernard’s lodge and gardens. Artists wishing to display their works, please contact Ian & Cheri to make arrangements.

 ATTRACTIONS

Nearby attractions include:

Sani Pass 4x4 trail to Lesotho
Duck and Dolittle Restaurant, Underberg
Underberg Cheesery, Underberg
Puckety Farm, Underberg
The Underberg Studio, Underberg
Himeville Museum, Himeville

Above attractions are approximately 1 hour’s drive.

Directions