https://travelground.imgix.net/AAEAAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAJDJkYWFjZDQ4LTFiZWItNDg2Mi05NjgwLTVkNWQzYTE2ZDg2Zg?w=1440&h=960&fit=crop&auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80
From R1 600 per night, for 2 ppl
83
5
1
5
R 57, Witsieshoek
Phuthaditjhaba
9869
Free State
021 344 2440
14:00-21:00
10:00
-28.685815527819
28.900072120377
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge
-
The Lodge has 8 newly refurbished chalets which have the prime view, and lovely modern furniture and fittings. Floor to ceiling windows provides a spectacular view of the Amphitheatre. The chalets are fully equipped with king-size-, or two twin beds, linen, as well as a modern en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, toilet and basin.
In addition, the lodge offers a number of older, comfortable bungalows. All bedding and towels are provided, and heaters are available as evenings on the mountain can get chilly. The bungalows are circular buildings with 3 units per building. Each unit comprises 2 bedrooms which share a bathroom and offer a stunning view.
A central restaurant provides breakfast, and lunch and dinner are offered on a á la carte basis. The pub is open to all guests, and there are a number of activities to be enjoyed in the area including hiking, mountain climbing and trout fishing. This area is home to the threatened bearded vulture, for birdwatchers to enjoy.
The Lodge has 8 newly refurbished chalets which have the prime view, and lovely modern furniture and fittings. Floor to ceiling windows provides a spectacular view of the Amphitheatre. The chalets are fully equipped with king-size-, or two twin beds, linen, as well as a modern en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, toilet and basin.
In addition, the lodge offers a number of older, comfortable bungalows. All bedding and towels are provided, and heaters are available as evenings on the mountain can get chilly. The bungalows are circular buildings with 3 units per building. Each unit comprises 2 bedrooms which share a bathroom and offer a stunning view.
A central restaurant provides breakfast, and lunch and dinner are offered on a á la carte basis. The pub is open to all guests, and there are a number of activities to be enjoyed in the area including hiking, mountain climbing and trout fishing. This area is home to the threatened bearded vulture, for birdwatchers to enjoy.
Features
Reviews (83)
83 guests' feedbackSee stars.
Had a great time, two of my friends did sleep in the 'backpacker'. I would strongly recommend that you repair the paths to the backpacker, dirty, smelling of fish with open showers along the way to the rooms.
We were allocated a bungalow. The pass is spacious and contains everything that is needed. The shuttle service to the Sentinel Peak parking lot is a plus. It is completely secluded and without any noise or other disturbing things and with exceptional views. Breakfast is included and is tasty. The only snag (literally) was the door of the unit which was not hung properly and had to be opened and closed with great difficulty.
See stars.
Breakfast was included which was not advertised.
Good stay, the stay at the lodge was good. We were warm and safe from snow.
Very nice stay here.
We had a very nice stay. Just a pity the weather was cloudy and we couldn't see the view of the amphitheater. The weather was so nice and cool. The food and drinks were very tasty and cheap. Everything was perfect! You will definitely see us again.
We stayed in one of the rondavels. The lodge is located in a very spectacular location with only few minutes' hike to the top of the mountain. The location is absolutely spectacular. The place is clean and quite well kept, although a couple of things could be improved (the curtain hook was missing and that's a very easy fix). The curtain in the door is very thin and does not block the light from the quite strong light outside, it would be good if those lights could be switched off (they appear to be permanently on). Food was nice, but the service in the restaurant was somehow slow and a bit unattentive. There is no self-catering facilities (perhaps the backpacker units have some), but this was not really a problem as the quality of the food was really good and there is plenty of tea and coffee. It would be nice to have a fridge for soft drinks in the room though. One thing that hikers should note is that this lodge is very high in the mountains - almost all hikes are downwards with steep climbs on the way up. Phase your strength accordingly as the return trip is a lot more tedious when you are tired. Despite the couple of small snags, we had a wonderful weekend and highly recommend the lodge.
Fridge in room needed.
The lodge is set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Amphitheater in the Northern Drakensberg. We overnighted in the Backpackers and found it spacious and neat. We used the shuttle service to the Sentinel gate which was very effective and on time. Sadly the reception was totally negative. The two ladies present did not greet us, nor smiled, rather gazed upon us as intruders. We left at 06:00 with the shuttle, and although our packed lunches (that was good) were ready, the reception was absent. Eventually, when she arrived late, she was still not greeting or even phased that she was late. This resulted in us leaving without proof of payments with the result that we had to pay additional fees for conservation. The additional fees for the hiking and conservation do not make any sense, looking at the state of the road, fences and tracks.
Witsieshoek is clean and tidy, but could renovate their dining room a bit by replacing the old carpets with something more modern such as tiles or laminated floors.
It is a very beautiful setting and the facilities comfortable. There you can do as it suits you, just be calm or walk in nature for those who have more energy. Even seeing the surroundings, Clarens and Golden Gate are not too far away.
No fridge or microwave in bungalow. Place's maintenance needs a lot of attention. Menu is very simple with some items not available. No microwave. No fridge for water or food.
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge is located right next to a township/informal settlement. The result is that guests have to drive through town to get to the lodge. There are many people, children and animals in the way. People with hunting dogs and cattle herders walk very close to the lodge. There is no fence around the lodge, and anyone can just walk in. We did not feel safe. With the short walk up to the top of the lodge, the sandstone mountains along the road are full of graffiti drawings and broken glass bottles. The buildings on the outside are a bit dilapidated and neglected.
Very friendly people, very helpful and good customer service. Beautiful location with the most beautiful view.
Great getaway for you and your spouse and Clarens is not too far away if you get bad weather on a day in the mountains. Also a nice location for backpackers, as well as a group of family and friends.
This place is located within the mountains. The scenery is beautiful. I've been in the backpackers, the rooms are quite big enough. The room was very nice and clean. I had a beautiful view. There is a kitchen and common bathrooms that are really clean and shower stuff is provided as well. The restaurant has s great view and serves good stuff.
We were 2 families staying in the Backpackers accommodation. Everything was very clean, small and comfortable. The communal kitchen area which is shared with other walkers was well equipped. The road to Sentinel Parking is unfortunately still very steep in places. We were able to arrange for someone to pick us up at 3am, as we wanted to start walking already at 4am. We are unsure why breakfast is included in all accommodation options. We also could not see that there is 'recycling' and the workers' 'relaxation room' (or something), which greets you on arrival at the beautiful Witsieshoek is truly unsightly and is deteriorating miserably.
Witsieshoek is a beautiful place, high up in the mountains! The unit was neat and clean and the management top. The lodge is suitable as a base camp for hikers to the Sentinel Peak and surrounding trails. We used the pickup shuttle service to the Sentinel Parking area, which added to the experience. We would definitely recommend Witsieshoek to people who love walking and nature.
We just didn't read well and didn't know it wasn't self-catering, but they brought us a barbeque to our unit but unfortunately couldn't barbeque due to weather. Will definitely go again as I say. Doing the Sentinel Trial is an experience, the weather just wasn't in our favor.
Accommodation feels expensive for what you get at lodge. Seems to me there are constant problems with power, but they have generators for basic services. Area is very beautiful. Staff was very friendly. Room and kitchen were clean. Road to get to Sentinel Peak parking lot is horrible, they can look into it.
The mountain view is picture perfect. View from the Sentinel units too. The unit could be cleaner and the road through the informal settlement is grueling. However, we will take it on again with love.
Awesomeness, beautiful, wonderful, especially if it snowed.
It was a breathtaking view of the mountains and surroundings. The breakfast and dinners available are definitely value for money and tasty.
Enjoy wonderful hiking trails. Good service and delicious food at the restaurant.
Please note that if you are 2 people booking the basic accommodation (backpackers) at Witsieshoek (which is quite expensive), you will be subjected to other parties sharing the same confined places and ablutions. Not pleasant if such individuals enjoy all-night parties. The service was OK though they got our order wrong many times, the staff is very friendly. Location is brilliant of course and the atmosphere amongst hikers is great. I would recommend with reservations.
We booked in the Sentinel units absolutely for the view but had bad weather and only had about 15m of visibility which is absolutely not the fault of the Lodge!. But it made us look more critically at the facilities / product, you pay a 5 star price, but get e.g. the same breakfast as the person who pays half the overnight cost in cheaper units. The view alone cannot make up the value for money. I would love to go back, but will definitely use one of the cheaper units.
The location is fantastic and the views breathtaking. But unit floors were not very clean. There are braai but no plates, knives and forks or kitchen. Not really a self-catering place. Food in restaurant is very nice.
Need a 4x4 or vehicle with good ground clearance for the road from hotel to where the walking trail starts. There is also a shuttle service from the hotel.
We stayed in the backpackers and the view was great. The kitchen is not well equipped. Our door was locked when we left but was open when we returned. The shower was clogged. The light at the shower is broken. The bathroom window has no glazing so is transparent.
Nice view, neat room, friendliest staff.
Beautiful view of the amphitheater from the comfortable Sentinel apartments. Access to the most famous hiking trails in the mountains. Strong wind in August. The road through Phuthaditjhaba is busy and a bit of an ordeal.
Witsieshoek's Bungalow rooms are very nice and warm against the biting cold outside. Very simple with everything you need except a small fridge. The king-size bed makes it worth it and sleeps great. The destination is for sure for an adventurous couple or group and people who go walking should have done it before. Witsieshoek is definitely worth the effort, but if you don't have walking in mind it will be a boring place. The staff is friendly and very cute. Restaurant is simple but delicious!
Suitable for hikers. Overpriced for what you get. Menu limited. No pool. No TV or WiFi in the rooms.
Sociability, exceptional walking routes, comfortable accommodation and delicious food. All this with a perfect location. What more can one ask for!
It was a real treat from our arrival until our departure. Every single person at the resort were courteous and friendly. It is such a pity to drive through such a devastatingly poor area to reach such a natural splendour! The graffiti at the cave along the entrance-way to the resort is a shame. All that set aside, we will visit again and again for the spectacular views.
Friendly and helpful staff and everything is neat and clean. Just felt that there were too many basic goods out of stock for this time of the holiday, such as cappuccino (could do with a proper cappuccino machine and not instant sachets) and wood or coal for the fireplace in the living room. All of the restaurant's meals were top notch.
This place is situated in an enchanting area high up in the mountains, the scenery is magnificent and perfect for hikers. The rest of the establishment hasn't seemed to have been given much consideration though, it's more like a cheap back-packers lodge for wealthy tourists than the R1600 per night price tag would suggest to South Africans. Although the rooms are far from the restaurant you will find no bar fridge in your room. There are also no markers around the lodge indicating where hiking trails start or their duration, there's no curio shop if you forgot your hat or sunglasses and the meals are bland and choices are limited. The receptionist was very attentive and went out of her way to assist us during our stay which we really appreciated, the staff were friendly and the chalet we stayed in had double windows (some only have one) which provided beautiful views and was clean and spacious.
The staff were very helpful and the accommodation clean and tidy. The food was good and enough! I would suggest that there be bath mats in the sleeping places for after bath and when you get into bed. There is only 1 TV in the lounge at the dining area, so only one person or group of people can watch TV. I suggest they install TVs in every room because the evenings can become long after dinner in the room.
Had not view of the hidden cost to get to the Lodge. Had no cash with me but were expected to Pay R55 per person to enter the premises at the gate to the. Was not forewarned of this in my booking. DO not have an issue to pay for this but would like this to be spelled out especially the cash only option. I find it unacceptable that I were forced into a buffet dinner because there were more than 50 people booked. Apparently the ala carte option falls away the moment that happens? Having spend 20 years in the military all I can say is "I do not eat buffet!!!!" This spoiled the weekend for me. As a result I avoided all dinners post the first night. Same goes for breakfast. No option for a fried egg, omelets or boiled egg just some sloppy scrambled egg. Staff were varied. Some were great some ignorant. The rooms were amazing, clean and well equipped.
Not much to do at all if you're not hiking or mountain climbing. Thanks to the management for attracting the lamb geiers for us. It made our stay worthwhile.
We stayed in the hikers cabin and the ceiling and curtains were broken. There was no water and low shedding. We stayed overnight in a bungalow. There were no bulbs in the lamps next to the bed. The breakfast and views are fantastic, but the accommodation is disappointing.
Nice place with a lot of potential but due to safety reasons and lack of maintenance not recommended for travelers. Hot water in showers but little. The roads to Witsieshoek not well maintained and graffiti on the rocks hideous.
Thank you!
The staff were amazing and served us beyond what we asked of them. Cabin was extremely comfortable and definitely worth the stay! Our boys were spoiled with amazing food which sparked their energy for hiking! And the views and stars were incredible. Definitely worth a visit!
Our experience at Witsieshoek was very positive. Our room was comfortable, convenient and very neat. The staff were friendly and were able to assist with directions and any questions we could possible have. Would definitely stay there again.
The chalets are very clean, tidy and beautiful. Beautiful views all around. The food was delicious and very tasty. Really value for money for the buffet. Very friendly service, cute Afrikaans drivers.
Eish. To get to Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge you have to drive through Qwaqwa. That is interesting, and rather sad. But once you're there you completely forget about it. We stayed in a chalet for a night. The views are amazing. There are some nice hiking trails but apparently you have to go to Sentinel Peak for the real trails to Tugela Fall. To get there you need a tall car like a bakkie preferably, but there is transport there and back from Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge, we just missed it. Staff very friendly and restaurant also looked after us well with a nice lunch and 3 course dinner. When I find myself I sit staring at the mountains, we really felt at ease here.
Well situated for hiking. Friendly, helpful staff. Value for money. Good food. Next time I will be prepared for the 3 day hike from The Lodge over the Centinal through the Amphitheater to Mount Aux Source and back.
We were very disappointed when we got there and saw that the "large bungalow" is actually a tiny room where you can barely walk around the bed with no view of the beautiful mountains. Jan, the manager of Witsieshoek was very understanding of our dilemma and quickly made a plan for us. The staff were just as helpful and friendly. Our "new" room which is described as a "chalet" was beautiful with a stunning view of the mountains. Spacious and private and perfect! Restaurant prices are very reasonable and I had to eat lamb chops two nights in a row, because they were just so delicious. We will definitely see Witsieshoek again. Thanks to Jan and all the staff who went out of their way to accommodate us. See you again soon. PS: A fridge in the units and maybe a barbeque option would be a nice upgrade.
The chalet was clean, well equipped and very comfortable. The breakfast included in the stay was delicious and the service in the restaurant and at reception was very good and all the staff very friendly. Would definitely recommend the Lodge, especially for visitors wanting to do the Mont aux Sources walk.
We were looking for a cheaper option for an impulsive weekend away. The Hikers Cabin was able to provide that for us. However, details we were unaware of until our arrival were that the bathrooms and kitchen are shared (not a crisis, but still something you want to be aware of in advance) and that breakfast is included (a pleasant bonus). Our room's paint was peeling a bit and the curtain was partially loose when we got there. However, everything was clean, it was nice to have the self-catering facilities of the Hikers Cabin, the service is good and it was an incredible getaway weekend. We will see Witsieshoek again for sure.
The location makes up for any shortcomings. The breakfast was very boring and not made with a flair or love for cooking or food.
Chalet was neat and clean. Food at the restaurant was nice and tasty, and not too expensive at all. The only negative is that there is no television in the rooms, which makes the evenings a bit long.
We had a nice stay, but there is a lack of information about the area.
See star-rating.
Lovely getaway so close to nature under a starry sky.
Good value for money. The staff are well trained, informed, helpful and friendly. Our accommodation was clean, tidy and well equipped against the cold on the mountain. The location is the best feature of the resort. The view is breathtaking and we also experienced the bonus of a full moon while we were up there in the mountain.
The accommodation is clean, tidy and well equipped, the view is beautiful and there are many walking routes to follow. The breakfast included is a bonus. Will visit again.
Very comfortable accommodation. View was breathtaking.
Very nice stay. Rooms were very nice, clean and comfortable with breathtaking views. The food was nothing fancy, but it was delicious, we licked our lips. There was enough variety to keep everyone happy and fat. The hotel is located in one of the most beautiful places in South Africa, it is truly breathtaking. Also not very far from the Sentinel Car Park, also a very special place. Wonderful weekend. Thank you very much.
See stars.
Witsieshoek is very well equipped for walkers of any experience type. Their housing units are neat and clean and the staff are extremely helpful.
Wonderful mountain resort!
Could do more with the location.
Die staproetes is pragtig en iets vir almal, die verblyf was netjies en die kos smaaklik. Die kospakkies kan beter wees. Sal definitief aanbeveel.
When we arrived we were placed in a unit without water, when it was fixed there was no warm water. We were moved to another unit, the water was on then off, then on then off and the floor was dirty.
The people were very friendly and helpful! The rooms were spacious and comfy! The restaurant's food was good value for money! The 7 km road between Witsieshoek and Sentinel is a bit rough on certain places for a sedan, so take it slow. Wonderful hiking trails within easy reach directly from Witsieshoek. Best place for hikers and mountain lovers.
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge is a great place to stay to head for the Sentinal Chain Ladder day hike! Also a special warm thanks goes to Jan for his superb service and always ready to give his advice.
Definitely not for small kids - felt very sorry for the couples with toddlers. More information should be given on the website especially for those who haven't been to Witsieshoek about preparation for hikes, starting points, times, safety / condition of trails (ice can be deadly on hiking trails for inexperienced hikers, and people who have fear of hights should definitely stay away). Dinners are a bit expensive (about R160 per person) and it is a set menu (1 meat, starch, veggies, salad, dessert and coffee/tea), not a buffet! As far as I could see most people found the food acceptable and tasty. Accommodation in bungalows aren't very private, the walls are really thin (a lot of noise can get through), but acceptable for a short stay - as someone explained to me: "... this place is for hikers, not for people who want to sit around and talk ..." Have to mention that we had an unforgetable experiende, especially with the snow on the mountains!
Beautiful, clean and peaceful accommodation. Perfect to get away from the city noise. The amphitheater walk is definitely recommended!
Best decision to sleep over after a long walk on a very hot day. The children enjoyed the view and the food served. Money well spent.
A great base from which to hike and explore this mountain escarpment, with dramatic mountain scenery and many photo opportunities.
The internet was not working in some places in general but they can improve.
Accommodation: 1 out of 10 - we stayed in one of the older units. ( Maluti . The water was undrinkable on the day of arrivial. We had to buy water from reception as the bar was closed. The entire carpet of the unit was really unpleasant to look at. And soaking wet. from corner to corner... quite disgusting to say the least. Beds was good. And we found a scorpion on our first night. Breakfast 10 out of 10. Lunch and Dinner. 5 out of 10. We had 2 lunches every time there was items missing from the bill. We had 2 dinners and with every dinner there was items missing from the bill. Staff. 10 out of 10. Every one was friendly. Hiking trails. 7 out of 10. The map we were handed. Reminded me of a Mac Donalds happy meal toy. a topographical map would have been much more helpful. The route that we walked was not clearly marked and we got lost for a number of km's before realizing. We did manage to make it back to camp.
Good location and beautiful views!
Used the Witsieshoek as a base camp for area backpacking trip. Rooms were great, and Kevin the manager was fantastic. I will be back for the amazing view!!
It was exactly what we were looking for. This is no "fancy" accommodation (older units not yet upgraded), but each unit overlooks the beautiful mountain range. You only have to step out your door and then you are on the hiking trail. The rooms are primitive with only a kettle (no fridge, microwave etc.).
Check out the stars below.
Map
Rooms
Backpackers
Standard Rooms
More photos
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Calendar
Tap any rate to see more detailed pricing.
Check-in/check-out details
House rules
Entrance fee to the Sentinel Peak area:Adults: R65
Children under 12: R55
Backpackers
More room/unit pictures
Description
The Backpackers comprises twin rooms that share a bathroom and a communal kitchen.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Extras
House Rules
Entrance fee to the Sentinel Peak area:
Adults: R65
Children under 12: R55
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
The Backpackers comprises twin rooms that share a bathroom and a communal kitchen.
Standard Rooms
More room/unit pictures
Description
Standard Rooms accommodate 2 guests and are furnished with a large king-size bed or 2 single beds on request. The en-suite bathroom is fitted with a walk-in shower and has all bathroom amenities. Comfortable bedding with extra blankets, and Sotho-inspired decor. Complementary tea and coffee are included.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Extras
House Rules
Entrance fee to the Sentinel Peak area:
Adults: R65
Children under 12: R55
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
Standard Rooms accommodate 2 guests and are furnished with a large king-size bed or 2 single beds on request. The en-suite bathroom is fitted with a walk-in shower and has all bathroom amenities. Comfortable bedding with extra blankets, and Sotho-inspired decor. Complementary tea and coffee are included.
Mountain View Rooms
More room/unit pictures
Description
Mountain view rooms accommodate 2 guests and are furnished with a large king-size bed or 2 single beds on request. The en-suite bathroom is fitted with a walk-in shower and has all bathroom amenities. Comfortable bedding with extra blankets, and Sotho-inspired decor. Complementary tea and coffee are included.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Extras
House Rules
Entrance fee to the Sentinel Peak area:
Adults: R65
Children under 12: R55
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
Mountain view rooms accommodate 2 guests and are furnished with a large king-size bed or 2 single beds on request. The en-suite bathroom is fitted with a walk-in shower and has all bathroom amenities. Comfortable bedding with extra blankets, and Sotho-inspired decor. Complementary tea and coffee are included.
Sentinels
More room/unit pictures
Description
These units feature either 2 single beds or a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom fitted with a shower, a toilet and a basin. Amenities include; a heater, bedding, towels and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Extras
Price Includes
Rates displayed are on a bed and breakfast basis.
House Rules
Entrance fee to the Sentinel Peak area:
Adults: R65
Children under 12: R55
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
These units feature either 2 single beds or a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom fitted with a shower, a toilet and a basin. Amenities include; a heater, bedding, towels and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
The Lodge has 8 newly refurbished chalets which have the prime view, and lovely modern furniture and fittings. Floor to ceiling windows provides a spectacular view of the Amphitheatre. The chalets are fully equipped with king-size-, or two twin beds, linen, as well as a modern en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, toilet and basin.
In addition, the lodge offers a number of older, comfortable bungalows. All bedding and towels are provided, and heaters are available as evenings on the mountain can get chilly. The bungalows are circular buildings with 3 units per building. Each unit comprises 2 bedrooms which share a bathroom and offer a stunning view.
A central restaurant provides breakfast, and lunch and dinner are offered on a á la carte basis. The pub is open to all guests, and there are a number of activities to be enjoyed in the area including hiking, mountain climbing and trout fishing. This area is home to the threatened bearded vulture, for birdwatchers to enjoy.