As someone who has and loves pets, the prospect of enjoying a pet-friendly stay is something that appeals to me. It comes as a relief to know that the Drakensberg and Natal Midlands of KwaZulu Natal are an ideal destination should you be on the lookout for a pet-friendly accommodation.
For many, pets are family, so why would you want to plan a family vacation without a member of your family? Not only is having your pet with you a joyful experience, it also eliminates the stress of having to organise someone to look over them during your getaway.
What to look for in a pet-friendly accommodation?
Accommodation that is considered to be pet friendly would mostly provide a large space to take you dog for walks as well as provide you with a fenced in garden. The area also would not have any other animals that would be considered a threat to the animal.
Pet owners also need to be aware of the policies that need to be adhered to, as the owners have a responsibility that their pet will be well-behaved during the visit. Dogs are not allowed inside the KwaZulu Natal National Parks, so here are some pet-friendly suggestions in the Drakensberg and Natal Midlands for you to review.
Ask us for pet-friendly accommodation suggestions HERE.
Win a pet-friendly holiday for 2 worth R16 200 HERE.
Antbear Lodge
If you are looking for some much needed breathing space with place for your pet to run around, then you can’t beat the offering from Antbear Lodge. Antbear is not only a pet-friendly stay, it is also widely regarded to be amongst the top accommodation stays in the Drakensberg.
The eco lodge has beautiful views of the mountains and has plenty of ground for dogs to roam off their leash. The dams on-site will also keep the canines content for hours on end, whilst the prospect of seeing horses will be an exciting one.
The pet-friendly units at Antbear each have their own fenced off gardens and there is no limitation to the size of dog that can stay. The team encourage furry visitors and can even offer a pet welcome pack which includes a few goodies and a doggie towel.
Read more about Antbear Lodge HERE
For more information, click here, call 076 441 2362 or ail reservations@antbear.co.za. To watch their video, click here. Find them on Google Maps, click here. To make a booking online, click here.
Ardmore Guest Farm
The best pet friendly option in the Champagne Valley is Ardmore Guest Farm. The guest farm also has lovely fenced in units with self-catering options. There is plenty of space for pets to wonder around on the premises. Small and medium-sized dogs are welcome.
Read more about the Ardmore Guest Farm HERE.
Ardmore Guest Farm is located at property D275, off the R600, Winterton, KwaZulu-Natal. For bookings, call +27 76 267 0969 / +27 36 468 1164 / +27 87 997 1194 or WhatsApp +27 83 789 1314 or email info@ardmore.co.za. Alternatively, you can do your bookings online HERE. Here is their location on Google Maps. Also follow them on Facebook HERE.
Pet-friendly Restaurants in the Area
- The Bierfassel is a quaint Austrian themed pub that serves hearty meals, catering for all tastes. The children can play in the kids’ activity area while you can enjoy tasting their Bavarian, Austrian and Midlands country fare. The pub offers over 35 different beers from around the world, including their very own local draught beers from Nottingham Road Brewery. Pets are welcome as long as you sit outside which is where you want to be anyway.
- Walking at Karkloof Falls – The Karkloof is a spectacular waterfall just about 15km from Howick of which about 5km is a reasonable dirt road. The falls is not directly accessible but a small partially hidden pathway from the car park gives you a beautiful view. The picnic area is relatively small but airy. You can bring your braai. This is one of those places that don’t officially offer pet friendly options but nobody will bother you here if you bring your dog either.
- Cattle Paths offers a number of walking trails and a little pizza restaurant between Estcourt and Weenen. The trails can be walked or mountain biked and pets are welcome too.
- Dragon Peaks offers camping where you can also take your dog. Day visitors also welcome. Lots of hiking and walking opportunities but dogs do need to be on a lead. They are also welcome at Dragons Rest Restaurant if you want a bite to eat.
- Piggly Wiggly a restaurant in the Natal Midlands together with lots of arts & craft outlets is an ideal family stop. You can visit here with your children and keep them entertained, as well as your four-legged children. If you pop by on a Saturday nice and early you can do the Park Run too.