The Old Hatchery

The Old Hatchery is a picturesque country estate nestled between the great uKhahlamba Drakensberg Mountains and the uMzimkhulu River in the heart of the southern Berg. We offer a range of accommodation options as well as relaxed dining at our famous Waterfall Restaurant. Our selection of B&B and self-catering options offer the perfect accommodation for your next family holiday or adventure trip. Whether it’s the comfort of having a private house to yourself, a quaint mountain cottage, or ‘glamping’, you’ll find the right fit to experience the beauty and serenity of the this beautiful part of South Africa. We're the perfect base to experience the many activities on offer which include horse riding trails; MTB trails, golf courses; the famous Sani Pass; and some of the best hiking options in the country! Our Waterfall Restaurant offers a wonderful view of the mountains from the deck and the sound of water rushing into our lake. We have a diverse menu serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in a relaxed environment. So whether you're enjoying the convenience of a restaurant on site during your stay, or coming for a sundowner drink on the deck, this is an experience that you won’t forget. The Old Hatchery is 9kms from the town of Underberg, and about 1,5 hours from Howick and 1 hour from Kokstad. We are on the route between Johannesburg and seaside resorts of the South Coast and Wild Coast making us an ideal location to break the drive and stay for a night.

Area Info

The general Underberg area is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including lush green hills, pristine rivers, and the towering (sometimes snowcapped) peaks of the Drakensberg mountain range. It's an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.

Visitors can enjoy a range of recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, tubing, bird watching and fly-fishing. The charming towns of Underberg and Himeville boast a rich cultural heritage, with historical landmarks and local markets adding to the area's allure. Additionally, the moderate climate and fresh mountain air contribute to a healthy and invigorating environment.

Units and Rooms

Oak Tree Lodge Room 1

Guests: 3

Large room that sleeps 3. 1 king sized bed and 1 single. Can be three singles. En-suite bathroom has shower and large bath. Access to lounge, dining area, kitchenette, patio and braai area. B&b or room only. Dstv, wi-fi and a/c.

Mountain Cottages

Guests: 2

We have three of these delightful little cottages that are ideal for couples. Each has a bathroom, kitchenette, tv, deck and braai facilities. Within earshot of the soothing sounds of the waterfall.

Dragonfly

Guests: 5

This 3 bedroom self-catering cottage is ideal for groups. Main bedroom has an en-suite bathroom. Second and third bedrooms have a separate shower and toilet. Living room has fireplace and tv. Beautiful kitchen & scullery. Large outside deck with seating.

Otter's Den

Guests: 7

This beautiful 3 bedroom self-catering unit is great for families and can comfortably sleep seven. The main feature is the large, open plan lounge and kitchen area with french doors opening to the patio. All bedrooms have en-suite bathroom. Dstv & a/c.

Luxury Tent

Guests: 2

Luxury Tent Enjoy the feeling of camping but in a luxurious way (Glamping!). Overlooks the beautiful Garden Castle Mountain. 1 bedroom with en-suite bathroom, kitchenette, patio and outside braai area.

Oak Tree Lodge Room 2

Guests: 2

Spacious room with queen sized bed and en-suite bathroom. Sleeps 2. Bathroom has bath and shower. Access to lounge, dining area, kitchenette, patio and braai area. B&b or room only. Dstv, wi-fi and a/c.

Oak Tree Lodge Room 3

Guests: 2

Spacious and private room that sleeps 2. One king sized bed, can be two 3/4 beds. En-suite bathroom has shower and bath. Access to lounge, dining area, kitchenette, patio and braai area. B&b or room only. Dstv, wi-fi and a/c.

Oak Tree Lodge Room 4

Guests: 3

Large room that sleeps 3. One king sized bed and one 3/4. Can be three singles. En-suite bathroom has shower and large bath. Access to lounge, dining area, kitchenette, patio and braai area. B&b or room only. Dstv, wi-fi and a/c.

Oak Tree Lodge Room 5

Guests: 2

Spacious and private room that sleeps 2. One king sized bed, can be two 3/4 beds. En-suite bathroom has shower and bath. Access to lounge, dining area, kitchenette, patio and braai area. B&b or room only. Dstv, wi-fi and a/c.

Oak Tree Lodge Room 6

Guests: 3

Large room that sleeps 3. One king sized bed and one 3/4. En-suite bathroom has shower and large bath. Double doors open to balcony with view. Access to lounge, dining area, kitchenette, patio and braai area. B&b or room only. Dstv, wi-fi and a/c.

Oak Tree Lodge Room 7

Guests: 2

Spacious room that sleeps 2. One king sized bed, can be two 3/4 beds. En-suite bathroom has shower and bath. Extra entrance to second outside area. Access to lounge, dining area, kitchenette, patio and braai area. B&b or room only. Dstv, wi-fi and a/c.

Oak Tree Lodge Room 8 & 9

Guests: 3

Two connected rooms with en-suite bathroom. Sleeps 3. 1 queen bed, 1 single. Has double doors that open to patio. Access to lounge, dining area, kitchenette, patio and braai area. B&b or room only. Dstv, wi-fi & a/c.