The next time you're in Limpopo - look up Summerset Place

Bela Bela is a couple hours drive from Johannesburg, the perfect getaway within a 300km radius if you're wanting to escape the city. 

We found ourselves in the small town of Bela Bela (literally translated means boiling, boiling in Northern Sotho/Twana) and if you have been there before you are forgiven for thinking that the town is nothing more than warm water springs and arid farmlands. Bela Bela has a gem - a lush green property run by Morne and his wife Christa, called Summerset Place.

On arrival my feet literally grew roots. I joke that perhaps I was in the car for too long but the word grounding just revealed a whole new meaning.

I had embarked on this spontaneous journey (as if I need a reason to retreat to bushveld and relax) which was long overdue and much needed at the last minute, and I'm so glad I did. 

My first experience with the hotel was the gorgeous hotel coordinator, Bernice, whom, like all at the hotel, just ooze family friendliness and professionalism. 

Accommodation for Kings

As the tree's and green garden lawns welcomed us into the reception hall, the owner Morne stands ready and waiting to check us into our room, Bernice has run an errand and he's taken the reigns. 

I had decided to book a smaller room for the first night, with an upgrade to the Executive room the following night, in the hopes of ending the weekend on a luxurious high. 

Bags down and suddenly I realise that 'entry level' is an upgrade on it's own, just as amazing as the hotel itself, under-promising and over-delivering every step of the way. 

You'd have to see it to believe me when I tell you that this place just has something about it. 

Green gardens in winter.

Poolside relaxation while the wildlife comes to you.

View from the top of the pool decks, gorgeous bird life awaits.

Room 1 - Big enough to feel pampered.

Room 1 - Bathtub for two.

Room 1 - Dresser.

Room 1 - Large comfy bedding.

Hello upgrade! Executive Room.

Executive room has it's own bath, outdoor & indoor shower.
Bigger than our townhouse!

Professional and clean. 

We lay under the stars at night, even saw shooting stars with Bernice.

Blessed with summer time weather, we enjoy an outdoor BBQ with Chef David. 

The hotel offers a boutique feel and all the luxuries one would expect from 4 star accommodation, just kilometers from the main town of Bela Bela, the Warmbaths Resort and many roadside attractions. Our two days were spent exploring wildlife, taking photographs of nature and discovering the sights and smells of the bushveld.

There is a family room option and the hotel works on a bed and breakfast basis. Go into town and visit the Warmbaths Resort for the day with the kids (a constant water temperature of 53 degree's all year round) and enjoy lunch at the local Spur. 

For ultimate luxury or a bit of a spoil, why not book Christa for a massage or pedicure. While we were visiting, there were couples and friends on a weekend breakaway, perhaps not a bad idea for a low key bachelorettes or some time out with the girls.

For enquiries, excellent service and a great weekend away call Summerset Place on Tel: +27 14 736 6576 / E-mail: info@summersetplace.co.za or simply book online! Trip Advisor is also full of compliments and great feedback. 


Thanks everyone for making our stay so amazing. We'll be back for the good food, friendly staff and some time out with Saartjie the resident donkey.