Treks, Trips, and Trails is a unique owner run property located in the Central Drakensberg area in a quiet, remote part of the valley, with beautiful views over the Drakensberg Mountains. Together, it is run by the husband-and-wife team of Chris and Magda Hearne, who are also seasoned explorers and fool-hardy travellers with a knack for knowing the hidden secrets of this region (they can also arrange private tours).
What draws most people to the property are the two self-contained self-catering cottages, designed and largely built by Chris himself. Bergvlei Cottage is a traditional brick structure that offers fully self-catering accommodation for six people, making it perfect for families and friends. Bahati Tree Lodge on the other hand is a unique tree-house style offering with two large bedrooms and a gorgeous deck that overlooks the lake and on to the mountains. But aside from being home to a treehouse (perhaps the only one of its kind in the Drakensberg), what sets this magnificent property apart from other Drakensberg accommodation options?
Well, here are just six unique features of Treks, Trips, and Trails:
Superb landscapes
The views at Treks, Trips, and Trails are truly a sight to behold. Getting to the property will take you away from the main drag, through local farmlands, over streams, and up a hill to an area were peace and quiet reigns supreme. From here, look down the rolling lawns of the property, over Bell Park dam and on to the mountains of the Central Drakensberg beyond. Take in these stunning views with your morning coffee on the deck of Bahati Tree Lodge or drink in the sunset on the private viewing deck, toasting to yet another fabulous day in Africa.
Abundant birdlife
Another unique feature of the Treks, Trips and Trails property is the sheer amount of birdlife found here. The lush gardens are home to a myriad of flowers and different trees which attract a large number of different bird species. With over 500 different birds to be seen in the surrounding area, as well as bird sanctuaries to visit and vulture feeding grounds not too far away, birders will delight in a stay here.
Handcrafted creations
Along with having built the Bahati Tree Lodge himself, Chris’ handiwork can be seen peppering the walls of the accommodation units. Look closely at the wall hangings, overhead lights, room dividers, and even the toilet roll holders, and you’ll discover some beautiful driftwood creations crafted from various pieces that Chris and Magda have collected on their own travels.
A Drakensberg rock pool
The mountain rock pools of the Drakensberg are a highlight of any hike. There’s nothing better than taking a refreshing dip in a mountain stream after working up a sweat on the mountain. But if you’re feeling too tired to lace up your walking shoes, then simply take a short stroll to the Treks, Trips and Trails very own rock pool – a custom design where you can enjoy a drip, surrounded by fragrant flowers with more magnificent Berg views.
Your own African braai
The African boma braai experience is an absolute must but there’s no need to pay an arm and a leg for this authentic dining option. Stay at Bahati Tree Lodge and you’ll have your own braai and fire pit where you can spend the evening over a potjie, while once again enjoying the view, or counting the stars in the clear night skies.
Loos with views
At Treks, Trips and Trails, even the loos have views. In Bahati Tree Lodge the main master ensuite is built around one of the property’s original old trees. Incased in glass, it stands pride of place in the middle of the bathroom. Downstairs and the guest-ensuite boasts floor to ceiling glass so that you’ll never miss a moment of the property’s fabulous Drakensberg views.
