A mountain resort in KwaZulu-Natal’s Central Drakensberg has once again been recognised among South Africa’s top holiday destinations.
Cathkin Park/By: Erick Martin / 500px/Getty Images
Cayley Mountain Resort in Cathkin Park has been named South Africa’s Leading Lifestyle Resort for 2026 at the World Travel Awards.
The award was announced at the World Travel Awards Africa Gala Ceremony in Zanzibar in September 2026, marking the fifth consecutive year that Cayley Mountain Resort has won the category.
The resort is part of the Beekman Group, which also received awards for The Kingdom Resort near Pilanesberg and San Martinho Beach Club in Mozambique.
A mountain escape in the Drakensberg
Cayley Mountain Resort is set in Cathkin Park in the Central Drakensberg, surrounded by some of KwaZulu-Natal’s most dramatic mountain scenery.
The resort overlooks landmarks including Sterkhorn and Cathkin Peak, while nearby Bell Park Dam forms an important part of its recreational offering.
Accommodation ranges from double and twin rooms to self-catering chalets, villas and larger units suited to families and groups.
For those looking for more space, some of the resort’s accommodation includes four-bedroom villas with private spas and five-bedroom manors with splash pools. According to Daily Investor, these larger units can cost up to R14,595 per night.
Plenty to do without leaving the resort
One of Cayley Mountain Resort’s biggest draws is the number of activities available on the property.
Guests can make use of hiking trails, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a multi-court, table tennis facilities and an outdoor fitness gym. There is also a games room, convenience store, restaurant and bar, and Body Bliss Day Spa.
Adventure activities include archery and quad biking, while the resort’s setting beside Bell Park Dam opens up even more options.
The Cayley Beach Club is one of its more unusual features, creating a beach-style recreational area around the dam despite the resort being surrounded by mountains.
Guests can take part in activities including stand-up paddleboarding, pedal boats and cruises on the water.
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A family-friendly Drakensberg stay
Families are particularly well catered for, with a long list of activities aimed at keeping children entertained.
These include a playground, jumping pillow, bumper boats, canoeing, kayaking, basketball and volleyball, as well as a floating waterpark on Bell Park Dam.
Children can also join Max’s Fun Club, which brings together several of the resort’s facilities and activities in a dedicated programme.
The games room has also been refurbished with retro arcade machines, PlayStation consoles, pool and table soccer, alongside a dedicated children’s entertainment area.
Recent upgrades
The World Travel Award follows a period of expansion and upgrades at the resort.
Since May 2025, Cayley Mountain Resort has introduced new self-catering accommodation, including chalets, suites and a villa designed for couples, families and groups.
Several existing facilities have also been upgraded. The Steam Café received a refurbishment, including additional indoor and outdoor seating and an updated menu, while an outdoor gym was added overlooking the surrounding mountains.
The resort’s recognition also comes as it continues to position itself as a destination where guests can combine the scenery and outdoor activities of the Drakensberg with the convenience of a resort-style stay.
For travellers looking for a mountain getaway with plenty to do on site, Cayley Mountain Resort offers a mix of accommodation, family activities, adventure and relaxation in one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most scenic regions.
Source: Daily Investor
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