Situated at the foot of the legendary Ghost Mountain near Mkuze, in picturesque Zululand, this privately owned country inn is the gateway to the cultural, historical and ecological wonders of northern KwaZulu-Natal. Set in an extensive country garden dotted with enormous fig trees and private shady spots, Ghost Mountain Inn creates a sophisticated country ambience.

Spend your days exploring the selection of nearby wildlife and coastal reserves in this lush, sub-tropical area. Look for the Big 5 in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, hike in Kozi Bay, go birding in uMkhuze Game Reserve (big ticks include palm swifts, white-eared barbets, giant and malachite kingfishers, and black coucal) or fishing on Lake Jozini. When you are not out exploring, visit one of the pubs, relax in front of a log fire, or beside the swimming pool. Pamper yourself with a skin and body treatment at the health spa or unwind in the steam room.

There are plenty of optional activities for children, like a guided nature walk to the dam, a nature treasure hunt in the garden, crafting to make traditional isiZulu beading, and messing around in the kitchen to make pizzas to be enjoyed around the campfire. Adults can immerse themselves in traditional African culture by visiting a sangoma (‘witchdoctor’) to have your future read, watching energetic stick fighting or tasting traditional Zulu beer. Be sure to sign up for a selection of guided walks and hikes – summiting Tshaneni peak, for example, will allow you to understand why this area is believed to be haunted… perhaps you will even experience the strange lights and eerie sounds for yourself!