The Carte Collection: A Living Legacy in the Majestic Drakensberg

When Bill Carte proposed to his beloved Ruth Blyth in 1941, he did so in a letter: “Ruth, my darling, I plea as never before: Put your trust in me, marry me and be my mate in building a home and farm second-to-none in South Africa.”

In October 1941, the newlyweds arrived in the majestic Drakensberg mountains and settled at the Cavern Guest Farm. This was a humble abode with no electricity or running water, but it held vast potential. Their vision was to create beauty, to make the land more fertile, and to leave the world a better place. Four generations later, their legacy continues through three unique businesses owned and managed by their five granddaughters.

Sungubala Eco Camp: An Extraordinary Wilderness Retreat

Tucked away in the deep and quiet ambit of nature is Sungubala Eco Camp. This self-catering camp is ideal for nature lovers and families wanting to immerse themselves in hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and bathing in crystal clear rivers.

• The Experience: The camp is geared for enchanting evenings around campfires under starlit skies.
• Sensitive Design: The layout maximises privacy while remaining within easy reach of all necessary facilities.
• Discovery: The hiker may discover The Silent Woman, an intriguing rock carving by 1950s’ artist and wanderer, William Chalmers.

The Cavern: Where Families Bond and Friendships are Forged

The Cavern is a place where memories are made. It serves as a romantic escape for couples, a retreat for quiet solitude, and a child-friendly resort with fun activities.

• Catering: The resort is fully catered with buffets and a set menu with choices.
• Accommodation: Standard and superior rooms are set in landscaped gardens where vibrant plants attract countless birds. Night-time brings the wild sounds of crickets, frogs, and other friendly creatures.
• Superior Suites: These units include fireplaces and private patios that overlook an ancient fern forest. It is a place to rejuvenate at the Spa and rest in the deep peace of the mountain wilderness.

Montusi Mountain Lodge: Space, Luxury, and Tranquillity

For space and luxury, Montusi Mountain Lodge is a high-end, beautifully appointed lodge offering generous accommodation and fine cuisine. In this gentle ambience, guests find solace and peace in the whispers of calm and vast views.

• Summer Highlights: Swimming in clear streams and rock pools with nobody around for miles are highlights for the season.
• Outdoor Adventures: Romantic picnics overlooking undulating valleys, off-road drives into quiet corners, and sunset horse rides offer a menu of choice for guests.
• Favourite Destinations: Popular hiking trails lead to the top of Montusi Mountain, Bushman Cave, and Waterfall Cave.

Conservation: The Northern Drakensberg Nature Reserve

Thanks to more than 80 years of the family’s commitment to removing invasive species, this gentle and fertile valley has been proclaimed a Nature Reserve. The Northern Drakensberg Nature Reserve creates a vital conservation corridor, linking the Royal Natal National Park with the Sterkfontein Reserve in the Free State.

It plays a critical role in wildlife protection and landscape preservation. Guests can discover the Amphitheatre World Heritage Site, the Tugela Gorge, and the Tugela Falls, which is the world’s highest waterfall.

Community: The Royal Drakensberg Education Trust

Alongside conservation, the Carte family has long been committed to community upliftment. In 2006, the Carte Collection consolidated its efforts with a primary focus on education through the Royal Drakensberg Education Trust (RDET). Through quality early childhood education, they help children build strong foundations for lifelong learning, giving them the confidence and opportunity to thrive.

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