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Farm Accommodation and Self-Catering Cottages / Chalets / CabinsSpecial Categories:
Backpackers Lodges & Hostels, Family Friendly, and Guest Farms / Farm StaysContact Details:
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Child Policy:
Children of all ages are welcome.
ACCOMMODATION
The original Shawswood stables have been converted into rustic rooms containing 3 to 4 bunk beds each, suitable for school, sporting, rambling or church groups (58 beds). There is an additional wing offering single or double accommodation (12 people) and a decent ablution block, with plenty of hot water for showering.
The farm workshop has been turned into a large dining hall, also suitable for indoor activities. Large groups are required to bring their own bedding and eating utensils. Mattresses with covers are provided, as are cooking facilities. Bulk catering can be arranged upon request, and braai facilities and firewood are available.
There are also large grassed areas for group activities and we are always open to new ideas for obstacle courses and team building exercises. We offer guided walks for school children. Similar walks for other groups can be arranged on request, otherwise the paths are well-marked for you to explore at your own pace.
STONE HAVEN
Stone Haven is Shawswood’s latest project! This 1880 sand-stone structure has been turned into a fully contained self-catering cottage, a “haven” for nature lovers to spend a tranquil few days away! A yellowwood staircase leads up to a quaint loft bedroom, complete with brass bed. Awaken to magnificent sights of the indigenous forest and mountain, and breakfast on the verandah, watching the birds and enjoying panoramic views of rural Africa! “Stone Haven” started off as a stable and hay loft, at the time when the original Shaw brothers were renowned for their polo playing skills!
Howick is in the heart of the uMngeni Municipal region and hub of the Midlands. It is known as the place of many waterfalls for it is here that the uMngeni River and its tributaries tumble down gorges and over precipices on a journey to the Indian Ocean, some 95 km to the east. Some of the key villages found in the vicinity of Howick are Karkloof, Merrivale and Lion’s River.
From Durban:
Take the N3 northbound highway out of Durban. Bypass Pietermaritzburg and Hilton. Take the exit 99 off-ramp towards the R617/Howick South/Underberg. Turn right under the N3 and follow the road through Merrivale into Howick. Remain on the same road through Howick until you see SupaQuick ahead of you on the corner. Turn right at the Supa Quick robot onto the Karkloof road and travel for 22.5 km, the last 2km being dirt road. Shawswood is on the left hand side.
From Joburg:
Take the N3 southbound highway out of Johannesburg. Take the Howick North/Tweedie off-ramp. Turn left towards Howick and travel for approx. 4 kms on the same road. You will pass through three sets of traffic lights and glide off to the left at the fourth. There’s a Supa Quick on this corner, where you will turn left onto the Karkloof road and travel for 22.5 km, the last 2 km being dirt road. Shawswood is on the left hand side.
Kindly contact Shawswood to enquire about rates.
Child Policy:
Children of all ages are welcome.
Payment Methods Accepted:
- Facilities for Children
- In-room Facilities
- On-Site Facilities / Services
- Services / Facilities in Area
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ATTRACTIONS
The main attraction on Shawswood is its waterfall, “Grey Mare’s Tail”, standing 101m high. Original paths have been reopened through the natural bush to reach the top of this waterfall. Here the bush makes way for open grassland, from which one can see for miles. This open area is perfect for picnics and the stream that feeds the waterfall is a natural source of untouched, clear drinking water.
The bottom of the falls is as spectacular as the top, with its rapids and pools of water in dappled shade and natural monkey ropes hanging from various bush trees, including yellowwoods.
Standing watch over Shawswood is Mount Gilboa. The 300 Ha of natural forest, open grassland and the Mount Gilboa peak fall into the category of “nature reserve” status, so are rich in biodiversity, with great educational value and awesome views. Indigenous fauna and flora abound, attracting a wide variety of birds, butterflies and bugs. Look out for the clivias growing wild in the forest and the elusive Karkloof Blue butterfly. If you are lucky, you may even catch sight of a buck or Samango monkey.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
- Karkloof Conservation Centre, home to the wattled crane
- Karkloof Canopy Tours
- Several mountain-biking trails, some incorporating parts of the Karkloof Classic route