Welcome To Tugela River Lodge
Tugela River Lodge is a self-catering Eco-Lodge, located on the banks of the Tugela River in the shadow of Spionkop Mountain near Winterton, KZN. We completely off the grid, are pet friendly and offer some of the best mountain biking and trail running in South Africa, being associated with the famous Oxpecker trail run and Berg and Bush mountain bike ride.
We have. private cattle and game farm which our trails run through, as well as routes along the river for your pets to enjoy. There are 5 fenced off units to choose from, some with their own private hot tubs for you to enjoy! Being close to the Central Drakensberg means there is also plenty to do off site in our amazing area of KZN.
We invite our guests to come and step away from the hustle and bustle of modern day life, to switch off their devices and come and enjoy nature along the Tugela River, with an abundance of birdlife and wildlife in all directions. Spot Kingfishers along the river, or Giraffe browsing in the game reserve from your kitchen window. Its time to disconnect to reconnect!
MAIN
LODGE
Ideal for group bookings and family gatherings. This is the perfect halfway spot between Durban and JHB to meet up for a relaxing weekend by the river.
HOT TUB
HIDEAWAY
The Hideaway is a spacious 5 sleeper that really ticks all the boxes. It comes with a wood fired hot tub overlooking the river – the perfect place to unwind.
Kingfisher
with hot tub
Kingfisher Cottage is a cosy 2 – 4 sleeper with the same layout as the Rapids. It also comes and an outdoor braai area and hot tub for you to enjoy!
RAPIDS
WITH HOT TUB
The river rapid runs right past the deck of this cosy 4 sleeper and the sounds of the running water really take you to a place close to nature. Enjoy the views from the hot tub!
RIVER
HOUSE
This 4 sleeper is slightly more modern than the rest of the cottages – perfect for those wanting a slice of home on their weekend away. Open plan with Wifi, this unit the perfect choice for a quiet getaway.
ACTIVITIES
- World class mountain biking on some of SA’s best bike trails
- Trail running through our private game reserve
- Pet-friendly game drives
- Spectacular fly fishing for the feisty KZN yellow fish
- Farm Stall with animal feedings for the kids
- Game reserve walks and hikes (not pet-friendly)
- Historical sites of the Battle of Spioenkop 15 minutes drive
- Pump track for the kids
- Orienteering course for the kids
- Picnics sites in the game reserve and along the river
- 40 minutes from the picturesque Champagne Valley and Drakensberg hikes
- Bass fishing at Spionkop Nature Reserve
- Pet-friendly river rafting and kayaking
- Pet-friendly weddings and functions
We are located in KZN
We suggest using Google Maps on your phone to find us.
Directions from Gauteng
Take the N3 South towards Durban. Go straight through the Tugela Toll Plaza. After 10kms you will find the Bergville offramp (exit 230). Go up the ramp and then left towards Ladysmith on the N11. After 4.6kms turn right onto the R600 towards Spioenkop Dam. After 11kms at the bottom of the 2nd steep hill you will find Tugela River Lodge on your left hand side. Allow 3 and half to 4 hours from Jhb.
Directions from Durban
Take the N3 North. After Estcourt, pass the Ultra City, then take the first offramp left to Bergville / Colenso (exit 194). Proceed left on the R74 towards Winterton. Go straight through Winterton. After 1km take the R600 right to Spioenkop Dam / Ladysmith. Proceed straight for 22km. Tugela River Lodge is on your right hand side just before the steep hill. Allow 2 and half hours from Durban.
PET-FRIENDLY WEDDINGS
Come and get hitched in the shadow of Spioenkop Mountain, with the Tugela River as a backdrop. Bring the dogs along too for a fun-filled weekend and enjoy making memories knowing you are reducing your carbon footprint with an off-grid wedding.