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Our top choices for Colenso hotels

1. Cayley Mountain Resort

Cayley Mountain Resort
4.0 star property
Cathkin Park
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (95 reviews)
"A great place to stay in the Drakensberg! Beautiful scenery and amenities !"
Canada
Brett
The price is NZ$138
includes taxes & fees
29 July - 30 July
Cayley Mountain Resort

2. Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge

Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge
5.0 star property
Ladysmith
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (21 reviews)
"Fabulous stay! Best lodge in Nambiti for sure!"
South Africa
Lauren
Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge

3. The Nest Drakensberg Hotel

The Nest Drakensberg Hotel
3.0 star property
Cathkin Park
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (31 reviews)
"Everything was fine...really had a good time"
United States
Lodewyk Stephanus De
The price is NZ$151
includes taxes & fees
24 July - 25 July
The Nest Drakensberg Hotel

4. Dragonview Lodge

Dragonview Lodge
4.0 star property
Cathkin Park
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (4 reviews)
"View from the hotel is stunning"
South Africa
Thando
The price is NZ$495
includes taxes & fees
29 July - 30 July
Dragonview Lodge

5. SpionKop Lodge

SpionKop Lodge
4.0 star property
Ladysmith
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (27 reviews)
"Great stay in a lodge in beautifull nature, and with a friendly staff, and a great manager"
Denmark
Gunnar
The price is NZ$154
includes taxes & fees
24 July - 25 July
SpionKop Lodge

6. Cathkin Cottage B&B

Cathkin Cottage B&B
3.0 star property
Cathkin Park
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (23 reviews)
"We loved to stay at the cottage Everything was super "
United Kingdom
Claudio
Cathkin Cottage B&B

7. First Group Midlands Saddle and Trout

First Group Midlands Saddle and Trout
3.0 star property
Mooirivier
7.8 out of 10, Good, (63 reviews)
"Always a great stay."
South Africa
Earl
First Group Midlands Saddle and Trout

8. Royal Hotel Ladysmith

Royal Hotel Ladysmith
3.0 star property
Ladysmith
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (21 reviews)
"Comfortable stay, extremely friendly ad helpful staff. Dinner and breakfast both good."
United Kingdom
Maureen
The price is NZ$108
includes taxes & fees
22 July - 23 July
Royal Hotel Ladysmith

9. Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort

Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort
3.0 star property
Cathkin Park
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (30 reviews)
"It was great,its spacious and the King size bed is very comfordable.I will recommend Dragon Peaks Mounyain lodge to everyons"
South Africa
Dietlof
The price is NZ$168
includes taxes & fees
29 July - 30 July
Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort

10. Amaka Private Game Reserve and Safaris

Amaka Private Game Reserve and Safaris
3.0 star property
Colenso
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1 review)
"Two night stay with three game drives. Sadly missed the elephants and rhino but plenty more to see on each trip. Nice room and food great. Excellent hospitality."
European Union
Serena
Amaka Private Game Reserve and Safaris

11. Drakensberg Sun

Drakensberg Sun
4.0 star property
Cathkin Park
Drakensberg Sun

12. Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge

Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge
3.5 star property
Ladysmith
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
"This was an outstanding experience. The lodge has a stunning location perched on a cliff overlooking the river below. Our room was utterly delightful, Angelo’s cooking amazing and Pemba’s game drives literally stunning. Great , great game viewing."
United Kingdom
Timothy
Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge

13. Antbear Drakensberg Lodge

Antbear Drakensberg Lodge
4.0 star property
Umtshezi
7.0 out of 10, Good, (6 reviews)
"Esme, Andrew & Conny’s hospitality was amazing! We stayed for 5 nights in 2 different rooms, the standard room then the Luxury cave suite (both were great but the cave suite is out of this world! Jason, the chef is so passionate about food & that really comes through in the meals, the food here is truly lovely. All staff were so friendly & the local tips provided by Andrew set us up to ensure our time was spent perfectly whilst staying in Drakensberg. The farm has loads of cute animals,...
United Kingdom
Gemma
The price is NZ$350
includes taxes & fees
24 July - 25 July
Antbear Drakensberg Lodge

14. Gooderson Monks Cowl Golf Resort

Gooderson Monks Cowl Golf Resort
3.0 star property
Cathkin Park
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (47 reviews)
"The hotel is conveniently located near attractions in the Central Drakensberg. Check-in was easy and efficient. We had a problem with our air conditioner, which was swiftly resolved after reporting the issue. Parking is conveniently located close to the rooms. Breakfast was good with a good selection of food. Overall, a good experience and good value for money."
South Africa
Anonymous traveller
Gooderson Monks Cowl Golf Resort

15. Treks Trips and Trails

Treks Trips and Trails
3.5 star property
Cathkin Park
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (4 reviews)
"Чудесное место с великолепным видом. Изумительный деревянный дом, выстроенный вокруг трех огромных сосен. Прекрасный хозяин - у нас спустило колесо, так он дал нам с собой в дорогу специальный баллончик со средством для ремонта колеса, и он нам таки пригодился. "
United Kingdom
Elena
Treks Trips and Trails

16. Umzolozolo Private Safari Lodge

Umzolozolo Private Safari Lodge
4.0 star property
Ladysmith
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (8 reviews)
"Au top, jamais déçu c'est une valeur sûre. Personnel très professionnel, au petit soin."
France
Anonymous traveller
Umzolozolo Private Safari Lodge

17. Three Tree Hill

Three Tree Hill
4.0 star property
Bergville
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (10 reviews)
"What a stunning location, and a great friendly lodge with excellent food and ambience. Ron was a really great guide to Spion Kop, and also an excellent host at dinner etc. Great stay!"
United Kingdom
Anonymous traveller
The price is NZ$1,197
includes taxes & fees
21 July - 22 July
Three Tree Hill

18. Convent Hill B and B

Convent Hill B and B
3.0 star property
Ladysmith
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (14 reviews)
"We loved it, and will definitely visit again."
United States
PHILLIPPA
The price is NZ$119
includes taxes & fees
20 Aug - 21 Aug
Convent Hill B and B
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Top Colenso Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Colenso

More cheap accommodation in Colenso

Lindo Guest House

Lindo Guest House

55 Elizabeth Ave Umtshezi KwaZulu-Natal

Find out more about Colenso

Top reasons to visit Colenso

  • Battlefields Route: Explore the historic Battlefields route, offering insights into South Africa's military past.
  • Colenso Museum: Visit the Colenso Museum to delve into the rich history and heritage of the area.
  • Scenic Walks: Enjoy picturesque walks along the Tugela River, surrounded by natural beauty.
  • Local Cuisine: Sample delightful local dishes at charming eateries, enhancing your cultural experience.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Discover opportunities for game viewing in the stunning surroundings of Colenso.

Find great hotels near Colenso

If you're seeking a memorable stay in Colenso, KwaZulu-Natal, you'll discover a variety of accommodation options, including charming lodges and comfortable hotels. Many establishments cater to business travellers, families, and pet owners, ensuring a delightful experience for all. Notable options like Lord Porchester and Gold Sovereign Colenso offer unique amenities to enhance your visit, making it easy to enjoy the beauty and culture of this captivating region.

  • Royal Hotel Ladysmith: Situated approximately 20.9km from Colenso, the Royal Hotel Ladysmith is a 3-star establishment ideal for business travellers seeking a comfortable stay. With a commendable guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this hotel offers a blend of classic charm and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, and on-site dining options that cater to various tastes, making it a practical choice for those balancing work and leisure in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal.
  • Convent Hill B and B: Also located 20.9km from Colenso, Convent Hill B and B is a charming 3-star bed and breakfast boasting a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This pet-friendly accommodation welcomes furry friends, allowing guests to enjoy their stay without leaving their pets behind. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, visitors can relish in the homely environment, while amenities such as free parking and a delightful breakfast add to the overall experience. It’s an excellent choice for travellers looking to unwind in a relaxed setting.
  • Umzolozolo Private Safari Lodge: A luxurious escape located 27.4km from Colenso, Umzolozolo Private Safari Lodge is a 4-star lodge with an exceptional guest rating of 9.8 out of 10. Tailored for those seeking a blend of business and relaxation, this lodge features a full-service spa offering treatments like massages and detoxification wraps. Guests can also enjoy a refreshing pool, making it a perfect retreat for rejuvenation after a day of adventure in the stunning South African landscape.

Where to stay near Colenso

Colenso, KwaZulu-Natal, offers a rich blend of culture and history for the adventurous traveller. Discover the legacy of F.E. Colenso, a prominent figure in the area's past, while exploring the charming streets of Colenso St Ives. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere at Main Place Colenso, and take in the vibrant community spirit. Just a short drive away, you'll find stunning landscapes and historical sites that capture the essence of this captivating region.

  • Ladysmith: Situated 21 kilometres from Colenso, Ladysmith is a vibrant city steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes. This area is perfect for those seeking an outdoor adventure, with activities such as hiking and golfing readily available. The local golf course is a popular spot, catering to both novices and seasoned players. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate nearby landmarks like the nature reserve and park, which provide ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Visitors flock to Ladysmith year-round, with peak travel times occurring in February, July, and September, offering a lively atmosphere for travellers.
  • Winterton: Located 29 kilometres from Colenso, Winterton is a charming city known for its breathtaking mountain views and welcoming community. Outdoor adventurers will find plenty to enjoy, with activities such as golfing at the local country private club and exploring the nearby parks and waterfalls. Like Ladysmith, Winterton attracts visitors throughout the year, with peak seasons in April, July, and September. The eco-friendly vibe of the area makes it an excellent choice for those looking to connect with nature while enjoying a variety of recreational activities.
  • Weenen: A quaint village located 27 kilometres from Colenso, Weenen offers a peaceful retreat for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The village is surrounded by beautiful natural parks, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics amidst nature. Although Weenen doesn't see the same influx of tourists as the larger cities, it draws visitors looking for a tranquil experience, especially in April, July, and September. The village’s charm and natural beauty make it a delightful stop on your journey through KwaZulu-Natal.

Things to do in Colenso

Shopping

In Colenso, visit local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs that reflect the region’s culture. If you're up for a drive, check out the nearby KZN Shopping Centre, approximately 19.3km away, featuring a good selection of stores and eateries to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

In Colenso, the Nambiti Hills Private Game Reserve offers a rejuvenating spa experience in a tranquil bush setting, featuring treatments that utilise local ingredients. For outdoor enthusiasts, explore the nearby Drakensberg Mountains, where hiking and birdwatching provide a refreshing escape into nature.

Adventure

Explore the historical battlefield of Colenso, where you can take guided tours that bring the rich history to life. For a dose of nature, hike the nearby Drakensberg Mountains, offering stunning scenery and a chance to spot local wildlife amidst the dramatic landscapes.

Nightlife

In Colenso, the laid-back taverns and local pubs offer a relaxed vibe with friendly locals and live music. Enjoy a quiet evening at the quaint eateries, where you can savour local cuisine, or venture into nearby towns for lively bars and entertainment options that showcase the region's charm.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Colenso

Colenso, KwaZulu-Natal, offers a rich cultural experience with attractions such as military museums, historic civic government buildings, and monuments. Visitors can delve into the legacy of Bishop John William Colenso and explore significant sites like the Colenso Power Station and the Lambeth Palace Library. This quaint town is perfect for those keen on immersing themselves in history and local heritage.

  • Ladysmith Town Hall: This historic Civic Government Building, situated 20.9km from Colenso, boasts stunning architecture and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the area. Visitors can appreciate its historical significance and the vibrant community events held here.
  • Bloukrans Monument: Located 12.9km from Colenso, this monument pays tribute to the sacrifices made during the Anglo-Boer War. Its cultural significance is palpable, making it a poignant spot for reflection and learning about local history.
  • Ladysmith Siege Museum: Found 20.9km away, this military museum offers an insightful look into the Siege of Ladysmith. Exhibits showcase artefacts and narratives that bring to life the challenges faced by the town during this turbulent period.

Best time to go to Colenso

The best time to visit Colenso is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April63.3°F (17.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May58.8°F (14.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June53.8°F (12.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
July53.4°F (11.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August58.6°F (14.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
September65.7°F (18.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
October67.5°F (19.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
November69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December71.4°F (21.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Colenso

Accessing Colenso in KwaZulu-Natal is easiest via Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB), situated 114.3km away. Wensleydale Guest Lodge, a 4-star guesthouse, lies 4.8km from the airport and provides convenient shuttle services. ANEW Hotel Hilton Pietermaritzburg, another 4-star option, is located 14.5km from PZB, offering transportation to the airport as well. Lincoln Cottages, also a 4-star guesthouse, is just 4.8km away, ensuring easy access. These hotels offer various transportation services, making it simple for visitors to navigate to and from Pietermaritzburg Airport.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Colenso?
The best area to stay in Colenso is the central area around Lord Street and the main road, as this provides the most convenient access to local amenities and historical sites.

This central area is the practical heart of Colenso. It's where you'll find the main shops, eateries, and local services. The layout is straightforward, with the primary activity concentrated along the main thoroughfare that runs through the town.

For solo travellers or those on a business trip, staying centrally is highly practical. You're within easy reach of any local meetings or points of interest like the Colenso Battlefields, which are a short drive away. The convenience of having everything close by means less time spent on logistics and more time for your purpose.

Families might also find this central location suitable, especially if they value convenience and easy access to basic necessities and local dining options.
When is the best time to go to Colenso?
The best time to go to Colenso is typically during the cooler, drier winter months, from May to September.

During this period, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with clear skies and less humidity, making it ideal for exploring the historical sites and battlefields around the area. Daytime temperatures are comfortable, and there's a lower chance of rain compared to the summer months. This allows for stress-free outdoor excursions and drives.

This time of year is particularly appealing for couples interested in history and nature.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Colenso.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Colenso with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Colenso hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Colenso?
Prices for hotels in Colenso often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$103 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.