About

Makaranga Garden Lodge, 25 km from Durban, is set amongst 30 acres of lush botanical gardens in the sub-tropical village of Kloof in Kwazulu-Natal. Makaranga's philosphy revolves around providing an opportunity for enjoyment, as well as rejuvenation, to those people who have a physical disability. The feeling behind this is that many wheel-chair users are restricted and Makaranga is one of the few resorts in the world that provides disabled GUESTS an opportunity to enjoy luxurious facilities.

The gardens comprise a riverine dominated by magnificent Macaranga trees, a prized collection of camellias, rhododendrons, magnolias and a variety of orchids, as well as an array of indigenous plant life. Accommodation is en-suite, individually furnished and extremely spacious. Dining is an occasion at Makaranga, with three meals served daily, while the Tuscan Tea Garden offers breakfast and refreshments overlooking the Venus Pond.

Location

Located in the lush, sub-tropical village of Kloof, in the rolling hills of KwaZulu Natal, 25kms from Durban.

Directions from Durban International Airport

1. Take the N2 North
2. Take the N3 Pietermaritzburg off-ramp and continue for 6.5km to M13 Pinetown off-ramp
3. Continue for 11km to Everton Rd/Gillitts off-ramp
4. Turn right at traffic light and right again into Igwababa Road
5. Proceed 1.2km to our gate

Directions from Pietermaritzburg

1. Take the N3 to Durban and then take the M13 Hillcrest off-ramp (approx 30kms from Durban
2. Proceed for 8km to Everton Rd/Gillitts off-ramp
3. At stop street, turn left into Everton Rd
4. Turn right into Igwababa Road, 400m down the road
5. Proceed 1.2km to our gate

Rooms

Accommodation at Makaranga Garden Lodge is exclusive, spacious and luxurious. There are ten en-suite rooms, each suite individually designed and tastefully furnished and opening onto a private verandah where the true beauty of Makaranga can be appreciated.

Each room has been designed and created to portray a unique feeling of harmony. Full facilities are provided for your convenience and carers are accommodated.

Facilities

Hotel and leisure facilities include

1. a classically furnished lounge/living room
2. a dining room
3. the Tuscan Tea Garden, serving breakfast, light snacks and refreshments, as well as morning and afternoon tea and cake
4. room service
5. laundry services
6. bowling green
7. swimming Pool - Full access for wheelchairs

Health

A luxurious haven for anyone in need of pampering and rejuvenation, Makaranga Spa is set amidst the tranquil beauty of Makaranga Garden Lodge and offers a comprehensive treatment menu from facials to body wraps.

Boasting four air-conditioned treatment rooms and one wet room specifically adapted for hydrotherapy treatments, the spa also houses the latest in state-of-the-art equipment.

The new Spa Therapy Capsule is a one-of-a-kind in Durban and allows for wonderful versatility incorporating sauna, steam, aroma steam, a Vichy shower, a jet bath and colour therapy. Its benefits include: flushing out toxins, easing of muscular and joint pain, increased metabolism, encouraged weight and cellulite reduction and the alleviation of sinus congestion.

Other signature treatments include Chocolate Body wraps, Hot stone and Dual massages and spray tanning. We offer a variety of packages or individual treatments which can be tailor made to suit your requirements.

If you are interested in indulging in a few treatments during your stay, then we recommend you book your treatments prior to arrival.

Activities

The main attractions at Makaranga are the gardens ... GUESTS are able to make their way down the wheelchair-friendly winding path to an oasis of peace and serenity. There are 18 ponds including Venus Pond and Long Pond, the latter being the largest waterway in Makaranga - a wonderfully quiet place to rest for a moment. There are also many beautiful statues in both bronze and marble, which have been imported from Italy for your enjoyment. These include a wonderful hand carved reproduction of Michelangelo's "David", as well as the "Four Maidens", who each carry the foliage of their respective seasons. These graceful statues keep a watchful eye over the "Blue Pond", so named because of the bias towards different shades of blue and purple plant life.

The authentic Japanese gardens boast original bridges, walkways, stone lanterns and hand carved figures, all imported from Japan and set out according to ancient traditions. Koi swim casually in the ponds creating a sense of stillness and calm, while the exquisite water lilies proudly display their pinks and purples. The Japanese Gardens promise a sense of awe, wonder and peace.

Throughout the gardens you will discover an impressive variety of both indigenous and exotic trees, including some rare and unique species. One of the most magical parts of the forest is along the moss-clad road, lined by magnificent Macaranga trees and lush vegetation. This quarter is home to many rare and exotic species of Orchid, Camellia, Magnolia and Rhododendron.

Whether your interest is botanical, pleasurable or if you are simply in need of some soul restoration, the gardens are sure to satisfy you. Should you be a day visitor, you will be able to enjoy a professional guided tour of the gardens, taking in all the scenic spots. Your visit will culminate in the Tuscan Tea Garden, which is situated adjacent to the lodge, overlooking Venus Pond and the forest of Macaranga trees.

Conference

Makaranga offers four conference rooms, with seating arrangements catering from 6 to 100 GUESTS:

1. Imbizo (East Wing)
2. Sibeko 1
3. Sibeko 2 (these rooms can be combined)
4. and a small boardroom (West Wing)

Standard conference equipment includes:
Data projector, screen, video, notepads and pens, water & juice and mints or sweets.

Available on request:
Lectern, flip charts, overhead projector, whiteboard and portable screen.

Additional charge:
PA system, lapel and standard microphones and secretarial services.

Please contact our conference coordinator on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 031 764 9400 for more information.

Fine Dining

Guests of Makaranga can enjoy three meals a day served in the elegant dining room, or on the Tuscan Terrace. Morning and afternoon tea may also be provided for their pleasure. Our unique brand of personal service, delicious food and good old fashioned hospitality make this an ideal setting for a weekend leisure escape, romantic honeymoon or prestigious executive event.

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