Spionkop Lodge

The Anglo Boer war lasted 3 years, and was to become the most costly Britain had ever fought, both in terms of money and lives lost. The most futile and bloodiest battle was the Battle of Spionkop, fought on 24 January 1900. Astoundingly, there were 3 men on Spionkop that day who were to influence the course of world history - General Louis Botha, Winston Churchill and Mahatma Gandhi.

Spionkop Lodge is situated on the site of the original farmhouse where Winston Churchill set up camp prior to the battle. The farm itself is now part of a 700 hectare eco-reserve, with some 270 bird species, an abundance of antelope, indigenous bush, and in June and July, a concentration of flowering aloes whose beauty leaves one breathless.

On the reserve is also Mount Alice, where General Buller established his headquarters, and lost communication with his troops at a vital point in the battle.

Specialised trips to the battlefield are run by your host, Raymond, a gifted raconteur who brings to life the adventures and misadventures of that fateful day, and this 4.5 hour experience costs R390 per person. An alternative tour is to Tugela Heights, Winston Churchill Capture Site, and Ladysmith - a total of 5 hours and costing R500 per person.

The lodge itself is in the 108 year old former farmhouse, which has been wonderfully restored in park-like grounds to now house the reception lounge, the dining room, with spectacular views overlooking the Spionkop mountain, and the cosy Churchill pub.

The accommodation consists of 8 comfortable en-suite bedrooms, as well as 2 fully equipped self-catering cottages, ideal for families or friends travelling together.

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