Bermanzi Mountain Retreat & Hiking Trails

Bermanzi Mountain Retreat &Trails are situated in the Skurweberg mountains between Machadodorp (Entokozweni), Waterval Boven and Badplaas, a mere 2 ½ hours from Gauteng. Come and experience the untouched natural beauty of the kranses and valleys teeming with birds and game, a variety of indigenous plants and trees, the beautiful Uitkoms waterfall in the bank spruit with its stunning pools, rapids and indigenous forests. Unforgettable panoramic views of the Komati valley, as well as several cultural and historic sites to be seen on the farm.

ON BEHALF OF THE OWNER:

Bermanzi translated means “The Mountain where the Water is”

The hiking trails is marked with WHITE footprints and there are poles with numbers at strategic points to assist you. It is essential to have the hiking route map and the description at hand to guide you on your hike. (Full info will be given to you in an INFO PACK on enquiries and bookings) It is important to note that the route can be slippery during rainy weather at the cliffs and heights. Small children must be accompanied by adults.

HISTORICAL NOTES:

The farm was the property of President Paul Kruger since 1899-1901.

The officially named Uitkoms waterfall that is a spectacular feature of the farm has a sad story attached to it, which is why it is known locally as “Brides Leap Falls.”

Legend has it that in the early 1950’s, a local policeman and his new bride came to the falls to have their picture taken.

Tragedy struck when a high wind swept her over the edge by her bridal dress to fall to her doom. There

ACCOMMODATION:

VAKASHANI CHALET

6-10 Persons.

  • This is a private luxurious double -storey stone build chalet that offers spectacular views of the Komati river valley and surrounding areas.

  • It is fully equipped with all amenities, a small fireplace in the lounge for cold winter nights.

  • Commercial DSTV – sports channels, MNET and Movie channels available.

  • Accommodation is available for 10 people in three bedrooms

  • There is a cozy lounge with a fireplace to relax and enjoy all the views.

  • Fully equipped modern kitchen with all appliances.

  • Electricity

  • Big enclosed braai boma outside with braai facilities.

  • RATES: R2800 minimum pn (1-6 persons) R360 per adult thereafter

ROCK 4 TWO CHALET

For 2 Persons only!!

  • A cozy luxuryen suit unit for 2 persons privately.

  • Commercial DSTV – sports channels, MNET and Movie channels available.

  • Double bed, fully equipped kitchen, lounge, bathroom. (bring own towels)

  • Fireplace. Braai area. Stunning views!!

  • RATES: R1600 per night

THE STABLES

Groups up to 43 maximum

  • This is ideal for bigger school/ youth/ church groups and all keen hikers and true nature lovers:

  • Hikers will be accommodated in the beautifully renovated, old traditional stables.

  • 8 Separate rooms, with bunk beds and covered mattresses,ring own bedding- sleeping bags and pillows.

  • A large covered stoop where you can sit and social.

  • There are 2 separate braai bomas with several loose braai grids to use.

  • 4x Bath rooms: showers, flush toilets and hand basins.

  • A big kitchen with an old anthracite stove. The ideal place to warm up during the cooler winter months. Electricity, refrigerator, 2-plate electric stove. Cooking utensils provided.  Bring own cutlery and crockery.

  • There are 2 x kitchens; 2 groups can cook at the same time

  • There is a large, covered stoop where you can sit and social. There are 2 separate braai bomas with several loose braai grids to use.

  • RATES: R300 pppn Kids U/12 R260 pn

THE STABLE DE LUX

  • Adjacent to the Stables is an extra private unit for 6 people who would prefer to have more luxury and private facilities. There is a private entrance and own braai facilities outside.

  • It is fully equipped, has electricity and you only need to bring your own towels.

  • There is a kitchenette with all basic cooking utensils, cutler and crockery, fridge and microwave.

  • Enjoy and relax in the cozy small lounge/ sitting area with an extra bunk bed for 2 and a separate room with a double bed and 2 single beds. Bedding included.

  • The bath room has a shower, flush toilet and hand basin.

  • RATES: R2000 pn

DAY TRAILS:

* A Network of excellent hiking trails to the spectacular Bride’s leap waterfall – varies from 3 -12 km

* Routes may also be combined

* Experience the untouched natural beauty of the kranses and valleys teeming with birds and game, a variety of indigenous plants and trees, the beautiful Uitkoms waterfall in the bank spruit with its pools, rapid and indigenous forests.

* Also, panoramic views of the Komati valley, as well as several cultural and historic sites

* A lot of cascades and rockpools

BACKPACK OPTION:

THE BUNDU TRAIL

For the more adventurous hiker who also like to camp with their own tents, The Bundu Trail will meet your expectations! This is a most enjoyable experience in pristine nature.

The first night hikers sleep at The Stables Base camp or the De Lux Room.

For the second night, hikers need to bring their own tents for camping in the indigenous woods next to a beautify stream.

Day one: is a 5–6-hour challenging hike with your backpack, your tent and everything you will need for the night. The trails go down into the Bankspruit gorge to reach the camping spot. Hikers can erect their tents next to the stream. NB: There are no facilities only the bush. Also note what you carry with you need to carry back to base camp too.

There is a natural rock pool close to the camp, that will be welcome during the summertime after the challenging hike.

Day two: is a 4-hour challenging hike along the Bankspruit up to the beautiful Uitkoms waterfall (also known as the Bridel Falls). After enjoying the beauty of the waterfall, you take the challenge uphill back to The Stables, where you can have a hot shower before leaving from home.

RATES: R325 pppn

ACTIVITIES

What can you do at Bermanzi?

  • A Network of excellent hiking trails to the spectacular Bride’s leap waterfall.

  • Bird watching – more than 185 species already identified.

  • All indigenous tree species are identified and tagged – tree list available.

  • Swimming and picnic spot near house. Beautiful rock pools to swim in!!

  • Ample dirt roads for mountain biking – bring own bikes.

  • Trout fishing on neighboring farm can be arranged.

  • Historical and cultural visits to Machadodorp.

  • Horse riding for kids only under adult supervision.