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Accommodation near Michaelhouse

 Nestled in the unspoilt beauty of Balgowan in the KZN Midlands, is the prestigious Michaelhouse boarding school for senior boys. This elite school has a long and rich history and is among the top and most unique private boys’ schools in South Africa.

Parents of Michaelhouse boys often head down to visit them or watch a rugby or cricket game on weekends. Most of them will want to take a much needed break in-between all the activities. For a quiet and stress-free getaway, why not head over to the Caversham Mill Country Cottages.

This charming restaurant and forest lodge is situated a mere 11 minutes drive from Michaelhouse and is set in lush, tranquil surroundings. It is owned by Terry and Di Acres and the Caversham Mill and Midlands Forest Lodge are situated 3,5km apart from each other.

Like Michaelhouse, Caversham Mill is an estate rich in history that also dates back to the 1800’s. The two share much in common and Michaelhouse parents and boys choose Caversham as a holiday destination of choice.

Founded in 1896 by Anglican Priest Canon James Cameron Todd, Michaelhouse, according to BusinessTech is now the second most expensive school in South Africa behind Hilton College.

Back in 1901, the school relocated to Balgowan and throughout its 123 year history, it has grown from housing 15 boys in Loop Street, Pietermaritzburg back in 1896 to now having 10 boarding houses with each being home to 60 boys.

Caversham Mill Restaurant near Michaelhouse

When the holiday season approaches, most Michaelhouse boys will head home for a few weeks. This means parents from around the country will be making the journey to the Midlands Meander to pick up their sons. With some having to make a more than 5 hour trip driving in the summer heat, stopping for a quick lunch or staying overnight before the drive home is a welcome distraction from the stress of traveling.

For the hungry, the Caversham Mill restaurant offers affordable Á La Cart dining in a child-friendly environment. You can quench your thirst with a refreshing cocktail on a deck with breath-taking views. Soak up the beauty of the Midlands while you satisfy your hunger with freshly prepared and delectable homemade comfort food that is without a doubt, world-class cuisine.

Enjoy breakfasts, lunches and dinners all while being soothed by the tranquil sound of the Lion’s River. It’s nature at its best in the heart of Kwa-Zulu Natal. At the end of a long day of exploring your tranquil surroundings, why not make a booking at the Midlands Forest Lodge before making the long trek back home. Revitalise and recharge your body in a quaint log cabin with idyllic views. 

The Forest Lodge offers 3 types of outstanding accommodation facilities so you’re spoilt for choice. Choose from standard double rooms in timber chalets raised on stilts, self-catering family chalets, or chalets equipped with a king bed, TV, en suite shower, basin and toilet. It boasts a large lounge with beautiful views. The kitchenette offers basic self-catering.

For parents worried about accommodation for their kids, the lodge caters for children of all ages and offers a 15% discount for under 12’s. Toddlers 2 years and under stay free of charge. Enjoy free WiFi, 24/7 security and free parking. It’s an affordable bush-break that only the Meander can offer and it can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Michaelhouse – An Elite School For Boys

Under the leadership of current rector Antony Clark, the Michaelhouse boys continue to maintain the ideals of its founder James Cameron Todd. In his speech, he said: “Our aim is to make, not accountants, not clerks, not doctors, not clergymen, but men of understanding, thought and culture.”

The Michaelhouse Estates distinctive architectural design features a masterful lattice of quadrangles made from traditional red-brick and houses world-class facilities. The estate is spread over 680 hectares of lush green hills surrounded by avenues of indigenous trees. This internationally renowned boarding establishment is equipped with amazing features such as:

  • Basketball courts
  • Heated swimming pools
  • A dam for canoeing
  • A fully equipped gymnasium
  • Soccer and rugby fields
  • Theatre auditorium
  • Open air amphitheatre
  • A music school equipped with recording studio facilities.
  • A media centre
  • Tennis and squash courts
  • A synthetic green putting range
  • A hockey astroturf
  • Cricket and hockey fields
  • Indoor and outdoor climbing wall

In addition, it also boasts an outdoor learning facility in the school’s nature reserve.

Notable alumni of Michaelhouse include John van de Ruit, author of the book Spud which was an account of his time at the school. A film adaptation of Spud was released in 2010 and starred John Cleese and Troye Sivan. Other notable celebrities from the school include Pat Lambie, Sharks and Springbok rugby player and best-selling novelist Wilbur Smith among others.

Calling all Michaelhouse boys and parents. Come spend your holiday at The Caversham Mill and capture the magic of the season in true Midlands style. Our friendly and helpful staff are ready to help you plan your next break

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