Spectacular St Lucia…
This gem is along the Elephant Coast of KwaZulu Natal, where the warm Indian Ocean beckons and the marine life is breathtaking. St Lucia is really a village thatโs part of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park; where hippos, crocodiles and leatherback turtles share the massive space with leopards, lions and black rhinos.
This is, without a doubt, a massive hotspot for anyone that needs an injection of the spectacular South African outdoors.
To make your holiday in St Lucia even more memorable, weโve listed some of our recommended places to stay, restaurants to try and things to do.
SLEEP
St Lucia is a perfect destination in its own right and makes a fantastic base from which to explore the rest of the magical province of KwaZulu Natal. It is home to hotels, lodges, B & Bโs, guesthouses and self-catering apartments. So, itโs ideal for couples, solo travellers, families, honeymooners and adventurers. Here are just a few suggestions:
Forest Lodge
Why we love it: Forest Lodge is upmarket and stylish, but is also secluded in the tropical forest, which makes you feel far away from the hustle and bustle of the real world.
The rooms have: En-suite bathrooms, air-conditioner, forest views and luxurious amenities. The family suite has a private balcony and a well-equipped kitchen.
Things to do: The lodge owner runs a safari company and offers awesome game drives through the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Parkย and the iSimangaliso World Heritage Park.
Umlilo Lodge
Why we love it: This 4-star guest house is nestled in the perfect spot โ surrounded by a World Heritage Site. Thereโs a wooden deck with a swimming pool, a bar lounge, and a boma with a fire place that is just stunning for evenings in the KZN bush.
The rooms have: Air-con, mosquito nets, a tea and coffee station, a fridge, and a TV.
Things to do: Safaris to see the Big 5, turtle tours, horse riding, whale watching, or kayaking and boat cruises on Lake St Lucia.
At Heritage House
Why we love it: Itโs right in iSimangaliso Wetland Park and combines modern elegance with a distinct African influence. Thereโs an indoor and outdoor lounge area for guests that want to relax in these gorgeous surrounds.
The rooms have: Air-con, a 32-inch TV with satellite, elegant dรฉcor and a tropical fruit bowl.
Things to do: Indulge in an organised afternoon tea or simply drink in the serenity of the surrounds.
Hilltop Guest House
Why we love it: Itโs contemporary and cool with a focus on all things eco-friendly. There is a stunning swimming pool and garden, as well as a lounge with a fireplace.
The rooms have: An en-suite bathroom, tea- and coffee-making facilities, air-conditioning, a patio and a few added extras.
Things to do: Spend time relaxing around the swimming pool or immersing yourself in the verdant greenery of the garden.
Kwalucia Private Safari Retreat
Why we love it: We adore the strong African influence in this dรฉcor, paired with plenty of luxury and style.
The rooms have: Air-con, ceiling fans, basic kitchen facilities, a large walk-in shower, charming free-standing bath, and electric blankets.
Things to do: Spend your days cooling off in the swimming pool or tanning on the deck, or head to the private library to get lost in a book.
Ndiza Lodge and Cabanas
Why we love it: Not only is this 4-star guest house in beautiful greenery, but it also boasts views of the Indian Ocean, Umfolozi River mouth and the second-highest sand dune in the world (Maphelane). We also love the swimming pool, splash pool, library, deck in the wetlands, and viewing deck.
The rooms have: The self-catering rooms have air-con, a shower, a kitchen, a private patio and a garden with a built-in braai. The B&B suites are also air-conditioned with a coffee and tea station, snacks, and direct access to the decks and garden.
Things to do: Spend time reading, cooling off in the pool or sitting on the deck and watching the magnificence of the iSimangaliso fauna and flora.
St Lucia Ecolodge
Why we love it: Apart from its gorgeous tropical gardens and breath-taking views of the wetlands, this hotel celebrates the splendour of its unique position within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which consists of five ecosystems.
The rooms have: Air-con, en-suite bathrooms, TV, ceiling fans and a private balcony.
Things to do: See hippos and crocodiles on boat safaris on the lake, go on horseback safaris or head to the nearby snorkelling and SCUBA diving hotspots.
EAT
Exploring St Lucia is all about natural beauty and endless adventures, with so many opportunities to make a lifetime of memories. All of this adventure is sure to get your appetite going. St Lucia is home to many of the well-known franchises and fast-food spots (including KAUAI, John Doryโs, and Wimpy). For something a little different, head to Ocean Sizzler for authentic Greek fare, fresh seafood and delicious grills. In addition to the inside dining room, there is an outdoor deck. The Dirty Dog Pub & Restaurant is all about awesome burgers, locally-renowned milkshakes, and craft gin cocktails. It is a vibrant spot for the whole family.
DO
Thereโs a distinct focus on nature and wildlife in St Lucia. The outdoors are celebrated at every turn. Some of our favourite attractions and activities include the following:
- Take horse safaris to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park or along the beach for an unforgettable way to experience the Elephant Coast.
- St Lucia Charters offers once-in-a-lifetime whale-watching tours. Head out into the ocean and get up close to a gentle marine giants.
- See the impressive Cape Vidal Lighthouse, which is 23 metres high and an iconic yellow hue.
- The St Lucia Beach is an unspoilt stretch of sea, sun and sand. The Indian Oceanโs waters are irresistibly warm and home to so much life. The shallows are ideal for swimming, but watch out for strong rips. The massive sand dunes are always fun and make for impressive backdrops too.
- There are a number of hiking trails in and around St Lucia. Tackling these is a fabulous way to be part of the incredible countryside. Try the Mziki Trail, Igwala Gwala Forest Trail or Emoyeni Trail.
