Rose Cottage, Barlands Farm, Dargle, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

As soon as you turn up the avenue of trees, you feel like you are in another magical world. The white picket fence and roses all around the unit add to the feeling of being in a fairy-tale!

We were instantly in love with the Rose Cottage and knew it would be one of  the places we returned to again and recommended to all our family and friends.

Besides for the incredibly beautiful and peaceful surroundings, the cottage itself is top notch. Lovely clean kitchen, fire-place in the lounge which opens onto a little wooden deck, neat bathroom with a shower and the fluffiest, puffiest bath mats we've ever had under our feet, cosy bedroom with lots of cupboard space, a super comfortable bed and fresh linen (we could still smell the sunlight and fabric conditioner). 

In addition to be so impressed with how well maintained and clean the unit was, the owner had also left us a bunch of fresh flowers on the table, a packet of biscuits and milk! When we opened the cupboard there was also a variety of spices including salt and pepper, a coffee plunger and coffee, as well as instant coffee and tea, even rooibos. We were overwhelmed, we've never experienced self catering like this before!

We spent most of the first day indoors around the fire because it was raining but when the sun came out the next day we took a walk around the farm. The garden is incredible, perfectly manicured with a variety of different flowers and plants. There is also a pool, trampoline and a tennis court with a basketball hoop - plenty to do if you are feeling energetic! This is one of the best places we've stayed at. 

Great features:

* Absolute peace and quiet - you'll have the best sleep ever!

* Lovely, comfortable accommodation

* Beautiful surroundings

* All the added extras you would never expect - what a treat!

Not so great features:

* The mattresses on the day beds are best suited for children

Price: Very reasonable for what you get (Less than R500 per person)

Would we go back: Most definitely!

Recommended for: Couples or a small family (2 children max.)

The host/s: The owner was fantastic, over email and face to face. She knows how to make you feel welcome!

For more information and bookings:
www.wheretostay.co.za/barlandcottage

Kitchen

Bathroom

Fresh flowers left on the table

Outside deck and garden

View from back of unit

Lounge

Bedroom

Driveway leading to the cottage