Best Getaways 
Emkhosini Royal Sun
Discover the perfect getaway at Emkhosini Royal Sun, where stunning natural beauty meets comfortable accommodation along the Umzimkulu River in Underberg. Our fully equipped self-catering chalets, cabin, and suite provide an ideal base for exploring the majestic Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park. Our eight self-catering units are just steps from the riverbank, each featuring a cosy log fire for a peaceful retreat. Enjoy a variety of on-site activities, including scenic trail walks along the edge of Thrombosis Gorge and 2.5 km of easily accessible trout fishing along the riverfront. Families will love the children's playground, equipped with mini-golf, playground equipment, a jungle gym, and a trampoline. For indoor entertainment, a games room awaits, complete with a library, table tennis, and air hockey. Relax in our riverside picnic spots under the shade of majestic trees or explore the wide river bend using boats, canoes, and tubes. Emkhosini Royal Sun is conveniently located just 2 hours from Durban and 6 hours from Johannesburg, making it an accessible escape for nature lovers. Don't miss the unforgettable 4x4 adventure up the iconic Sani Pass, the only road linking KwaZulu-Natal to the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. The scenic journey offers breathtaking views throughout the year, from vibrant wildflowers in summer to shimmering iced waterfalls in winter. Experience the abundant wildlife and beautiful gardens at Emkhosini Royal Sun, where peace and privacy are paramount. Pets are welcome upon request, ensuring that your furry friends can join in on the adventure.
Area Info
Underberg, a newly discovered gem in the far west of KwaZulu-Natal, lies against the southern foothills of the Drakensberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. This region enjoys special protection under the United Nations Conservation Treaty and is characterized by its high rainfall and pollution-free rivers, which flow into the Umkomaas, Umzimkulu, Polele, Umzimvubu, and Tugela rivers.
The area is rich in history, featuring internationally significant Bushman paintings that date from 4,000 to 150 years old, depicting early settlers and Nguni populations. The diverse culture includes English, Afrikaans, and Zulu communities.
Home to two of the Drakensberg's highest peaks—Hutchinson’s Peaks—reaching heights of 3,252 meters and 3,258 meters, Underberg is surrounded by smaller nature reserves within the uKhahlamba World Heritage Area, including Cobham, Loteni, and Vergelegen.
Additionally, the village of Himeville hosts one of the few roosts for Amur Falcons, which migrate annually from Eastern Europe, covering an incredible distance of 16,000 kilometers. However, they face threats from agricultural practices that result in poisoning.
Units and Rooms
Giant Cabin
Guests: 10
A secluded cabin featuring 2 double en-suite rooms, 3 twin rooms, 2.5 additional bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, open-plan lounge and dining area, scenic gorge and river views, a spacious deck with braai facilities, gas heaters, and an ice machine.
Woodland Chalet
Guests: 8
Max Adults: 6
Charming 2-story chalet featuring 3 upstairs bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a guest bathroom downstairs. Includes a bunk bed on the landing, open-plan kitchen/dining area, cosy lounge with log fire, covered veranda, and BBQ facilities for outdoor dining.
Pygmy Chalet
Guests: 2
A free-standing double-storey unit featuring a steep staircase, en-suite with shower, loft bedroom, kitchenette, cosy dining/sitting area, log fire, bedroom balcony, and a downstairs deck with beautiful views and a balcony.
Pied Unit A
Guests: 2
This double-storey semi-detached chalet has an upstairs en-suite bedroom with a king bed, large tub, and shower (accessible by a steep staircase). Downstairs includes a kitchen, a cosy lounge with a log fire, and a patio with braai facilities.
Pied Unit B
Guests: 2
This double-storey semi-detached chalet features an upstairs en-suite bedroom with a king-size bed, large tub, and shower (accessible by a steep staircase). Downstairs includes a kitchenette, cosy lounge with log fire, and a patio with braai facilities
Mangrove Chalet
Guests: 5
This cosy chalet features 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a sofa bed for a fifth guest, a fully equipped kitchen, an open-plan living area with a log fire, a covered veranda with braai facilities, and a fenced pet-friendly garden.
Malachite Chalet
Guests: 4
This freestanding 2-bedroom chalet features king beds (which can convert to twin beds) and 2 bathrooms, one with a bath and the other with a shower. Enjoy a cosy lounge/dining area with a log fire, a full kitchen, and a deck with braai facilities.
