OCT/NOV/DEC 2024 Newsletter - Cathedral Peak Hotel

Message From the General Manager

Spring has arrived in the Drakensberg, bringing with it a wealth of wildlife, longer and warmer days, breathtaking sunsets, and blossoming flowers. We look forward to hot, bright days, spectacular thunderstorms that will replenish our rivers, and verdant, lush landscapes as summer approaches.

Our Festive Season preparations are underway as the end of 2024 draws near, and we’re looking forward to a happy celebration with plenty of family-friendly Christmas and New Year’s Eve activities planned. In the spirit of giving, we invite you to support our Pack for a Purpose initiative by making room in your bags for much-needed school supplies for the children in our local communities.

For those unable to join us for our 85th Christmas and New Year celebrations, the van der Riet Family, along with the management and staff of Cathedral Peak Hotel, wish you a very merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Bruce Botes

Celebrating 85 Years of Breathtaking Views & Timeless Adventures!

Eighty-five years ago, a vision came to life amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains. When Albert van der Riet first set eyes on this stunning landscape in the early 1900s, he imagined a retreat closer to the mountains than anywhere else. After acquiring the land in the mid-1930s, he began the formidable task of turning his dream into reality. By December 1939, the doors of the Cathedral Peak Hotel opened, inviting guests to experience the grandeur of the ‘berg through guided walks, horse rides, and evenings filled with dancing and entertainment.

After Albert’s passing in 1987, the hotel remained in the family, with his son William, taking the reins. Together with his wife, Belinda, he ensures that Albert’s glorious vision is kept alive in the grandest fashion to this day. For decades, Cathedral Peak Hotel has welcomed guests from around the world, becoming a beloved destination and a true testament to Albert’s vision. As we celebrate 85 years of unforgettable memories, we honour the legacy of a realized dream, and the countless moments of joy it has brought to so many.

Exciting Upgrades & Refurbishments!

Panoramic Views

We have recently installed new windows in the Cathedral Peak Hotel conference room, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Eco-Friendly Water Jugs

An eco-friendly change has recently been made by replacing single-use plastic water bottles with durable, reusable jugs. These jugs are filled with the same crisp, refreshing Drakensberg filtered spring water you’ve always enjoyed.

Brand New Dining Room Curtains

Stunning new curtains have been added to the dining room to brighten up the space, bringing in even more natural light and adding a touch of warmth to your dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast with beautiful mountain views or a cozy dinner, the refreshed atmosphere perfectly complements the charm of our hotel.

Upcoming Events

Black Friday Voucher Sale COMING SOON!

The highly anticipated Black Friday Voucher sale is coming soon and will be available for just one week! Stay tuned to our social media pages for updates.

Festive Season

Our festive season entertainment offers something for everyone, from Carols by Candlelight with a visit from Santa and a traditional Christmas dinner with the ever-popular musician Chris Jensen, to a lively New Year’s Eve party with one of South Africa’s top singers, Matt Gardiner. Spaces are limited, so reserve your ultimate holiday experience in Drakensberg today.

Highlights

Mandela Day Blood Drive

To commemorate Mandela Day and embody the spirit of giving, we’re proud to share that we organised a blood drive for our dedicated staff and valued guests. Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to this important cause!

Samson’s 350th Cathedral Peak Summit!

We are incredibly proud to celebrate Samson, one of our devoted guides, for his extraordinary achievement of summiting Cathedral Peak 350 times. This remarkable achievement is a testament to his unwavering determination, exceptional skill, and deep passion for the mountains.

BRAND NEW Hotel Branded Shirts & Hoodies

We’re so excited to introduce our fantastic new Cathedral Peak Hotel branded shirts and hoodies! Each item features the stunning surrounding mountains in beautiful shades of blue. Perfect for any adventure or relaxing day, these are must-have additions to your wardrobe. Get yours from our Try Me Store on your next visit!

Meet the Cathedral Peak Hotel team

We are so privileged to have such a wonderful team who work together to provide our guests with the ultimate Drakensberg experience!

Introducing Desiree Malapile, our vibrant Senior Assistant Marketing Manager. Originally from Limpopo and raised in Johannesburg, Desiree has been with the Cathedral Peak Hotel team for over 18 months. She loves the creative freedom her role offers, inspired by the natural beauty around her. Her motto is, “You have to give yourself a chance to try, even if you fail.”

Local
Is Lekker!

With Cathedral Peak Hotel having a strong history of supporting local suppliers in and around KZN, our proud partnerships contribute to our ability to deliver an experience of the Drakensberg like no other!

Warrior Contracting: Howick-based Warrior Contractors are the talented team behind the stunning renovations of our 50s, 80s, and 300s bathrooms. These skilled professionals have the expertise and resources to transform any space. We couldn’t be happier with the results and look forward to working with them again in the future.

Thukela Berry Farm: This family-owned farm just outside of Colenso supplies us with the freshest, most delicious strawberries, harvested with care and dedication. Indulge in these delightful berries from our divine dessert offerings each evening.

Johan Pretorius Photography: For almost a decade, Johan has captured the essence of our hotel through his incredible photography and drone imagery. From the warmth of our rooms and the elegance of our facilities to the excitement of our activities and expansive beauty of our surroundings, Johan has a unique ability to make every shot tell a story.

Bucket List Goals for 2024

Fly & Bass fishing

Whether you prefer fly or bass fishing, our three on-site dams offer the perfect chance to reconnect with nature. Fly fishing rods and flies are available at reception. Just a 15-minute walk away, Lake Jarred is stocked with rainbow trout for a rewarding experience. For bass fishing, visit the serene settings of Lake Byron or Lake William.

San Art Paintings

Dating back thousands of years, these artworks offer valuable insights into the cultural, spiritual, and daily lives of the San people who created them. At Cathedral Peak Hotel, you can embark on scenic, complimentary guided hikes through breathtaking landscapes to discover these ancient masterpieces that providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the San people.

ESCAPE TO THE DRAKENSBERG

AT DISCOUNTED RATES

November Special

20% off rack rates for adults and teens | 50% off rack rates for kids 12 and under

Discounted rates start from R1755 per adult, R1230 per teen (13-16 years) and just R460 (8-12 years) / R350 (4-7 years) per child per night, inclusive of all meals.

Valid 1st to 30th Nov ‘24 for new bookings only. Min 2-night stay. Rates exclude levies. T’s & C’s apply.

Summer Special

20% off rack rates for adults and teens | 50% off rack rates for kids 12 and under

Discounted rates start from R1755 per adult, R1230 per teen (13-16 years) and just R460 (8-12 years) / R350 (4-7 years) per child per night, inclusive of all meals.

Valid 1st Dec ’24 to 31st Jan ’25, excluding peak periods. Min 2-night stay. Rates exclude levies. T’s & C’s apply.