Beacon Vlei Guest Farm

Nestled in the heart of the enchanting KwaZulu Natal Midlands, discover the hidden gem that is Beacon Vlei Guest Farm. Our idyllic retreat offers an unforgettable experience, with its comfortable B&B and self-catering accommodation boasting unrivalled views of our sprawling 23-hectare private dam and the breathtaking surrounding wetland area. This natural haven is a sanctuary for hundreds of exquisite bird species and even a few majestic mammals, painting a picture-perfect setting.

Immerse yourself in the charm of our five delightful self-catering dwellings: The Boat House, Crane Cottage, Otter Cottage, Rose Cottage, and Heron Cottage. At Beacon Vlei, you won't need to venture far to indulge in various activities. Enjoy bass fishing, birdwatching, boating, or simply relish a tranquil picnic after a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Beacon Vlei. Additionally, we can arrange thrilling outdoor adventures in the surrounding countryside, including mountain biking, horse riding, canopy tours, battlefield tours, and even paragliding.

As a family-friendly establishment, Beacon Vlei Guest Farm takes pride in its central location on the illustrious Midlands Meander, a stone's throw away from Michaelhouse School. This iconic route is a treasure trove of art and craft shops, as well as a culinary delight with an array of fine restaurants, delicatessens, and cheese farms in the charming Balgowan district, mere kilometers away from Beacon Vlei.

Indulge in our inviting accommodations, where you can unwind in pure serenity. Our private dam, spanning an impressive 23 hectares, is a haven for bass fishing enthusiasts of all levels. Feel free to use our boats and life jackets, though we kindly request that you bring your own rods and tackle. While bass can be caught all year round, the prime fishing season spans from September until May.

At Beacon Vlei, our top priority is providing our guests with an unforgettable, rejuvenating experience. Whether you prefer to unwind at one of the region's finest day spas or seek a thrilling adventure such as mountain biking, horse riding, canopy tours, or birdwatching along the famed Natal Midlands Birding Route, Beacon Vlei and the remarkable KwaZulu Natal Midlands have it all! We are more than happy to arrange bookings for these and other activities in the area, as well as offer recommendations for the plethora of arts and crafts shops dotted along the Midlands Meander. Moreover, we are surrounded by an array of exceptional restaurants, and we can gladly make reservations on your behalf.

For avid birders, Beacon Vlei is a true paradise. Prepare to be mesmerized by the captivating sight of the Crowned Crane, Purple Heron, African Fish Eagle, Olive Woodpecker, African Jacana, and Marsh Harrier, among other species of special interest. During spring and summer, you will be greeted by a dazzling myriad of birds flocking to our dam and the lush surrounding wetland, a sight that will surely delight bird enthusiasts. To top it off, we are incredibly fortunate to have a pair of nesting Crowned Cranes in the wetland surrounding the dam. Our trails, viewpoints, and picnic spots around the dam and the estate provide endless hours of entertainment and relaxation for our esteemed guests.

Depending on the season, you may also catch a glimpse of duikers, reedbucks, and bushbucks, adding an element of wonder to your stay. Moreover, Beacon Vlei is home to otters, jackals, porcupines, servals, and Rooikats, creating an immersive wildlife experience that will leave you in awe.