Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort is a cherished destination, nestled deep within the majestic Drakensberg mountains. Its stunning natural scenery with breathtaking views of mountains, rivers and lush greenery, makes it an exceptional retreat for nature enthusiasts. The resort provides a serene and peaceful environment, ideal for both long and short hikes, further complemented by its proximity to the Drakensberg Gardens National Park. Despite the poor condition of the access road, guests find the resort's superb location and facilities worth the minor inconvenience.
Guests frequently commend the resort's breakfast, praising its variety and quality. The buffet-style breakfast features a delicious spread with highlights including egg preparations and early morning breakfast packs. Although some found the options limited and repetitive, the overall feedback remains positive.
The dining experience, while generally positive, shows room for improvement. Many guests enjoy the food quality and variety, particularly the curry, trout and vegetarian options. However, issues such as overcooked dishes and lack of menu diversity were noted, along with concerns about dinner pricing. The resort's three restaurants generally received favorable reviews.
Rooms at the resort receive mixed feedback. Positively, guests acknowledge the spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort with beautiful views adding to the charm. However, many noted the need for upgrades, citing outdated decor, musty smells and broken fixtures. Despite these drawbacks, many guests appreciated the clean and well-maintained rooms.
Cleanliness is a strong point at the resort with numerous reviews highlighting spotless rooms and public areas. Housekeeping is praised for keeping the property in good condition, despite occasional remarks about outdated facilities needing structural upgrades.
The resort’s staff consistently receive high praise for their friendly, helpful and accommodating nature. Guests frequently commend individuals by name, enhancing the overall experience at the resort. Despite a few isolated service issues, the staff's attentiveness and politeness leave a lasting positive impression.
One major downside is the unreliable Wi-Fi, which frustrates guests due to weak connectivity, particularly in the rooms. The limited access and frequent disconnections suggest a need for significant improvement in the network infrastructure.
The spa at the resort is a highlight, described by guests as top-notch and incredibly relaxing. The La Vita Spa receives consistent acclaim for its excellent service and serene atmosphere, making it a favorite for those seeking relaxation.
The gym, although small, is well-equipped and clean. Guests find it satisfactory but suggest improvements like better maintenance of equipment, availability of towels and water dispensers. Access requires a fee, which could be a minor inconvenience.
The pool facilities are highly praised, particularly the various heated pools which provide enjoyment for guests of all ages. While occasional maintenance issues were noted, the overall sentiment is positive with clean and well-maintained pools contributing to a delightful experience.
The tennis courts are another popular feature, often highlighted for their good maintenance and enjoyable setting. Tennis enthusiasts will find the courts in excellent condition, adding to the resort's extensive recreational offerings.
Parking at the resort is secure and ample, ensuring guests do not have to worry about parking spaces.
In summary, Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort offers a fantastic getaway for nature lovers, families and adventure seekers alike. The breathtaking location, extensive facilities and friendly staff create a memorable and relaxing experience. While there are areas needing improvement, particularly the Wi-Fi and room updates, the resort’s overall ambiance and offerings make it a highly recommended destination.