Peering through one teakwood door at Hartford House, you face the splendor of the 1800s. Opening another, the distant sounds of ancient people at work lilt across the silent landscape, a country of great space, spectacular mountains and big skies.
Hartford is the resolution of all South African safaris, the journey's exclamation point. A retreat from the hubbub where you make sense of a fast life and its senseless details, and where we learn to redress ourselves on a first name basis. There are too many luxury hotels in the world offering the same: a chocolate on the pillow, canned romance, and cuisine called "haut" because it's spelled in French.
Hartford stands apart for its authenticity. Its architecture, views, dining, sounds and scents, its racehorses and its people are all exhilarating surprises, unique to this Zululand, this culture, to Africa.
There are 16 uniquely decorated suites, all fitted with under floor heating, heated towel rails and generous bathrooms. All suites are equipped with a telephone, TV (with M-Net and satellite channels) and a mini bar.
There are 3 rooms in the Manor House, ideal for guests who like to be close to all the facilities. Set slightly away from the Manor House there are 4 'Veranda Rooms' each that open up to the veranda with private entrances.
A little further from the Manor House is the Pool (2) and Garden (2) rooms, also with private entrances and privacy. For those looking for the ultimate in privacy there is a choice of 4 very unique, free standing, Lakeside suites. These are ideal for honeymooners or couples looking for a romantic indulgence. Set around a large trout lake with views across the lake and fields.
The Manor House is decorated with antiques and offers cosy sitting in the lounge as well as outside on the wrap around veranda that overlooks the manicured gardens and the distant Drakensberg Mountains. The restaurant is voted one of South Africa's top and serves delicious meals. Breakfasts are enjoyed on the veranda. In the evenings enjoy a drink in the bar with its cosy fire place.
Relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment or roam the 7000 acre private estate with a selection of trails.
Hartford House shares the estate with the prestigious Summerhill Stud Farm that is home to a selection of the Dubai Sheikhs valuable stallions. Take a tour of the stud farm, or just enjoy the surrounds with its country feeling and seeing the horses in training passing by on their days routine.
Nearby is Giants Castle where you can enjoy day trips to go for a hike in the Drakensberg Mountains or take a drive to the country route of the Midlands Meander. A stay at Hartford House gives you an ideal location to do as much or as little as you want to do. Easily included into a holiday exploring the Battlefields and coastal regions of Natal and an easy 2.5 hours from Durban and only 3-4 hours from Johannesburg.
Hartford House is ideal for couples and honeymooners. Families with children over the age of 12 years are welcome.
