This past week, the team at Champagne Castle Hotel, were proud to receive the TripAdvisor 2026 Travellers’ Choice Award.

“Congratulations to Champagne Castle Hotel and Resort on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2026. Ranking among the top 10 percent of hospitaiity businesses globally means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took time to go online and leave a glowing review about their experience. We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2026 and beyond.”

This is the 14th year that we’ve received this award, and the 14th year that we’ve been rated a top Hotel (Winterton) by our guests on TripAdvisor.

As the world’s largest travel guidance platform, Tripadvisor has unparalleled authority with travellers and diners. This award is based on genuine feedback from guests who have visited Champagne Castle Hotel, and left an authentic, first-hand review on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of great places to visit.

THANK YOU TO OUR GUESTS AND STAFF TEAM

A big Thank You to all of our guests who have taken the time to review us, thereby contributing to us receiving this award. We’re grateful for your support.

Another thank you goes to our incredible staff team who have helped make this a possibility. They work tirelessly to ensure our guests have an exceptional experience,

We are honoured to be included among travellers’ favourites this year.

This past week, the team at Champagne Castle Hotel, received a Booking.com Traveller Review Award 2026.

From Booking.com

“Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2026 are about celebrating all the hard work that goes into a great stay. That little bit of extra effort to make every moment special. We’re thrilled to celebrate the incredible hospitality of Champagne Castle Hotel. To all of this year’s winning partners – congratulations!”

Our team has worked really hard over the past 12 months to achieve this milestone.

The review scores for the Traveller Review Awards 2026 are based on the average of all guest reviews published on the Booking.com website and app between 1 December 2022 and 30 November 2025. Each final review score is based on reviews received in the previous three years.

The Traveller Review Awards are all about celebrating partners who go above and beyond for guests to make their experiences memorable. As Booking.com say:

The best properties get the best reviews, and selecting an award-winning property is a sure-fire way to ensure your stay will be top notch.

THANK YOU TO OUR BOOKING.COM GUESTS AND STAFF TEAM

A big Thank You to all of our Booking.com guests who have taken the time to review us, thereby contributing to us receiving this award. We’re grateful for your support.

And well done to our incredible staff team who have helped make this a possibility. They work tirelessly to ensure our guests have an exceptional experience,

Every year, Champagne Castle Hotel hosts a Photo Competition open to everyone over the age of 18. First prize is a two night stay at Champagne Castle Hotel for two people.

The competition requires that all entrants submit an original photo that includes Champagne Castle (the mountain) and captures ‘a sense of place‘.

The Hotel puts a judging panel together, who select a winning photo.

This Year’s Winner

We had 283 entries this year, and our judges worked through all of them to finally get down to one winner.

Well done to Monique Pretorius

Monique’s winning photo was taken in front of the dam of our self-catering chalets. She definitely captured the magnificence, magnitude and ‘Sense of Place’ found at Champagne Castle Hotel.

Runners Up

Pieter Claassens

Matthew Frangakis

Valentine’s Weekend in the Mountains

There’s something about the Drakensberg that lends itself naturally to romance. The scale of the mountains, the quiet between moments, the way a day unfolds without rush. This Valentine’s Weekend, Champagne Castle Hotel invites guests to settle into that rhythm and enjoy a weekend shaped by good wine, beautiful music, and time together.

Friday 13 February: Wine Tasting in the Mountains

The weekend begins gently on Friday evening with a relaxed wine tasting, hosted by Myles Buxton.
From 18:00 to 19:00, guests are welcome to join us on the patio for an informal tasting – a chance to unwind, compare notes, and ease into the weekend ahead.

There is no additional charge, and no need to book separately. Simply arrive, take a glass, and enjoy the moment if you’re free. Like so much of life in the mountains, it’s designed to be unforced and welcoming.

Saturday 14 February: Valentine’s Day Dinner

On Saturday evening, the focus turns fully to Valentine’s Day. A specially themed dinner will be served, created to be savoured slowly and shared easily. Throughout the evening, the gentle piano stylings of Mike Goosen will provide the soundtrack – familiar, romantic, and perfectly suited to candlelit conversations.

It’s an evening intended not to impress loudly, but to linger quietly: good food, live music, and the sense that there’s nowhere else you need to be.

A Valentine’s Weekend, the Champagne Castle Way

No rigid schedules. No overstatement. Just thoughtful touches, live music, and the mountains doing what they do best, creating space for connection.

Whether you join us for a glass of wine on Friday, a romantic dinner on Saturday, or simply the pleasure of being here, Valentine’s Weekend at Champagne Castle Hotel is about celebrating love in its simplest, most enduring form.

We look forward to sharing it with you.

Enter Champagne Castle Hotel’s annual Sense of Place Photo Competition, and stand a chance to win a two night stay at Champagne Castle Hotel during 2026.

Enter via our online entry form by uploading your original photo that captures ‘A Sense of Place’ and includes Champagne Castle (the flat mountain to the left of Cathkin Peak mountain).

• The competition runs from 5 December 2025 – 18 January 2026.
• You can enter as many times as you’d like.
• While your photo does not have to be taken at Champagne Castle Hotel, it must include Champagne Castle (the mountain) to be considered.
• Entries close at midnight 18 January 2026.
• The Winning Entry will be selected by a panel of Judges from Champagne Castle Hotel
• The winner will be announced on the evening of 25 January 2026 on our Website, Facebook  and Instagram Pages.
• Competition Terms and Conditions are included below (the entry link is below the Terms and Conditions)

Examples from previous entrants can be found below:

THE LINK TO ENTER IS BELOW THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Competition T’s and C’s

Champagne Castle Hotel is running a ’Sense of Place’ Photo Competition (“the Competition”).

Participants in the competition are required to enter a photo (taken by themselves) that captures ‘A Sense of Place’ and includes Champagne Castle (the flat mountain to the left of Cathkin Peak).

One entrant will win a two night stay at Champagne Castle Hotel during 2026. All participants agree to be bound by the following Terms and Conditions:

• The Competition runs from 5 December 2025 to midnight on 18 January 2026 (both days inclusive). Only one person will get to win the Prize.
• To stand the chance of winning the prize as part of the Competition, participants must submit one photo that captures ‘A Sense of Place’ and must include Champagne Castle (the flat mountain to the left of Cathkin Peak).
• A participant may enter the Competition as many times as they like, but doing so does not guarantee that they will win the Prize.
• All participants must be 18 years old or older.
• The winner will be selected by means of a panel made up of 3 members of the Champagne Castle Hotel team, after the end date of the Competition, from all eligible entries which meet the requirements set out in these Terms and Conditions.
• Champagne Castle Hotel will use reasonable efforts to contact the winner using the contact details provided, during hours (08h00 to 17h00), as from 26 January 2026 – 26 February 2026 after the winning name is selected.
• All risks and ownership of the Prize shall pass to the winner on transfer / delivery thereof and hence all of Champagne Castle Hotel’s obligations in regard to the Competition as well as in regard to the Prize shall terminate. Champagne Castle Hotel will advise of delivery and/or collection arrangements in respect of the Prize at the time of contacting the selected winner.
• Should a participant not be available on the email address supplied during the time-frame stipulated or reject, forfeit or decline acceptance of the Prize, that person’s right to the Prize will be deemed to have been waived and the Prize will be forfeited.
• The Prize is not transferable and may not be used in conjunction with any other competitions.
• The Prize cannot be redeemed for cash in part or whole and is non-refundable, non-transferable and non-exchangeable.
• In the event of a dispute in regard to any aspect of the Competition and / or the Terms and Conditions, Champagne Castle Hotel’s decision will be final and binding and no correspondence will be entered into.
• Champagne Castle Hotel may refuse to give any Prize if the qualifying procedures or these Terms and Conditions have not been adhered to or if it detects any irregularities or fraudulent practices.
• Champagne Castle Hotel will not be obliged to notify participants that they are rejected.
• Champagne Castle Hotel will not use the winning participant’s contact details for any other purpose than for the execution of the competition only.
• Champagne Castle Hotel or any other person or party associated with the competition, their associated companies, agents, contractors and sponsors and any of its personnel involved in the competition, shall not be liable whatsoever for any loss or damage incurred or suffered (including but not limited to direct or indirect or consequential loss), death or personal injury suffered or sustained arising from either participation in the competition or from claiming the prize.
• Employees, directors and agents of Champagne Castle Hotel, their immediate families, life partners, business partners and associates and any person directly involved with the devising, producing, managing or marketing this competition are not eligible to participate and win in this competition.
• If Champagne Castle Hotel are required by law to alter or cancel any aspect of the competition or to terminate it as a result of changes in legislation, or for any reason whatsoever, will have the right to terminate the competition being offered, with immediate effect and without notice. In such event all participants hereby waive any rights which they may have against Champagne Castle Hotel.
• All information and photographs entered relating to the competition which is published on any marketing material will form part of these Terms and Conditions. In the event of any conflict between such marketing material and these Terms and Conditions, these Terms and Conditions shall prevail.

When you meet Thandeka Mazibuko, her calm confidence immediately stands out. Yet behind that quiet composure lies an incredible journey of determination, growth, and passion for the art of cooking.

Thandeka joined Champagne Castle Hotel back in 2014, not in the kitchen, but as a relief worker in the hotel shop. Her love for cooking, however, quickly drew her toward the heat and hum of the kitchen.

We sat down with Thandeka to learn more about her journey, her inspirations, and what life is really like behind the scenes in the kitchen.

Tell us a little about your journey at Champagne Castle Hotel.

Thandeka:

I started working at Champagne Castle Hotel in 2014 as a relief in the hotel shop, where Rosie works now. Chef Imran, who was the Head Chef then, gave me the opportunity to join the kitchen because he saw that I loved cooking and had potential. I started as a cook, learning professional cooking, which is very different from home cooking! Over the years, I’ve grown into my role, and now I’m preparing to become Senior Sous Chef next month.

Who have you learned the most from during your time here?

Thandeka:

Chef Imran, without a doubt. He’s the one who gave me a chance and taught me most of what I know today. He was my inspiration, he believed in me, mentored me, and encouraged me to dream big. He always said, “You can be a cook now, but one day you might have your own restaurant.”

What inspired you to move from working in the shop to cooking in the kitchen?

Thandeka:

I’ve always loved cooking. From a young age, my family knew it was my passion. I love experimenting with flavours, combining ingredients, and trying new things, it just makes me happy.

What does a typical day in the kitchen look like for you?

Thandeka:

I start work at 6am, because breakfast begins at 7. We only have an hour to get everything ready, so it’s quite busy. After breakfast, we clear and prepare for lunch. Between 10 and 12, we make sure lunch is ready by 12:30. Then after lunch, we start preparing for dinner. It’s a full day of planning, cooking, and making sure every guest is happy.

Which service is the most challenging — breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

Thandeka:

Lunch! Definitely lunch. It’s the busiest time, especially with the terrace menu and orders coming in constantly.

As a Sous Chef, what does your job involve?

Thandeka:

I help the Head Chef with menus and orders, and I make sure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen. If the chef isn’t there, I handle any issues that come up. I’d say I’m second in charge.

What will change for you when you become Senior Sous Chef?

Thandeka:

Not much will change, really. It’s mostly a new title, I’ll continue doing what I’ve been doing.

What do you enjoy most about working in the kitchen?

Thandeka:

The creativity! I love that we get to work with diverse ingredients and cuisines. We can try new recipes, explore new trends, and keep learning. I also love the challenge of big events, like weddings. It pushes you to do your best.

Do you have a favourite dish to prepare for guests?

Thandeka:

Oh yes, mutton biryani. It’s hearty, full of flavour, and has so many ingredients that must all work together perfectly. When you get it right, it’s the best feeling.

What dishes do guests most often compliment you on?

Thandeka:

Definitely the prawn curry! Guests love it, we always have to make sure we’ve got extra ready. I also make a good fish curry, but the prawn curry is the most popular.

How do you stay calm when things get stressful in the kitchen?

Thandeka:

You have to stay calm and composed. Prioritise tasks, delegate, and communicate clearly with your team. I try not to lose my temper. If I feel frustrated (which doesn’t happen often), I’ll step into the storeroom for a moment to cool off, and then come back ready to carry on. You can’t let your team see you break down; they need you to stay steady.

What’s been the biggest challenge in your career so far?

Thandeka:

Managing staff, especially when introducing change. Some people don’t like trying new things or new recipes. It can be difficult to get everyone on board, especially those who’ve been in the kitchen for 20 or 30 years. But times change, and we all need to grow together.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?

Thandeka:

I love spending time with my family, I have two children, a boy who’s 18 and a girl who’s 14. We enjoy cooking together. I’m teaching my daughter how to make a proper meal, not just cook to eat, but to cook well.

Tell us something surprising about you.

Thandeka:

People are always surprised to hear that I’m a vegetarian! I can cook the best meat dishes, prawn curry, biryani, roasts, but I don’t eat meat myself. I actually developed a meat allergy when I was a child. I grew up not eating meat. Just grilling lamb chops used to give me a rash!

What’s your favourite meal at home?

Thandeka:

My mother’s beans. She makes the best beans I’ve ever tasted, no one can make them like her. I don’t know her secret recipe; she just says she cooks them like everyone else, but hers definitiely taste different.

What are your dreams and goals for the future?

Thandeka:

Right now, I’m finishing my Hospitality and Catering Management course. I’ll write my final exam next month and graduate in January. Somewhere in the future I can see myself starting my own business. I like the sound of ‘Thandeka’s Kitchen’. I’ve always wanted to create something of my own.

And finally, what do you hope guests feel when they eat your food?

Thandeka:

I hope our food creates memorable experiences. I want guests to enjoy what we make so much that they’ll remember it, and come back to Champagne Castle Hotel again.

You’ll find Thandeka and her team working behind the scenes each day, creating the flavours and experiences that make Champagne Castle Hotel meals so memorable.

Next time you visit, take a moment to enjoy her biryani or famous prawn curry, and know that every dish is made with passion, pride, and a dash of love from the heart of the Central Drakensberg.

At Champagne Castle Hotel, where breathtaking mountain views and serene landscapes take centre stage, there’s another element that quietly shapes every guest’s experience: the exceptional cleanliness and comfort of the hotel. Behind this is Vincent Nkosi, our dedicated Head of Housekeeping.

Vincent leads a team committed to excellence, working tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to ensure that every room and space is spotless, welcoming, and thoughtfully prepared. While his work may not always be visible, the results are felt in every polished surface, crisp linen, and peaceful night’s rest.

In this interview, Vincent shares insights into his daily routine, the challenges and joys of his role, and the deep pride he feels in being part of the Champagne Castle Hotel team. From navigating summer rains in the Drakensberg to reading glowing guest reviews, Vincent’s story is one of quiet leadership, high standards, and genuine care.

Can you tell us a bit about your time at Champagne Castle Hotel. How did you come to work at Champagne Castle Hotel and what led you to become Head of Housekeeping?

I first joined Champagne Castle Hotel in 2010, when I applied for a position as a room attendant. Hygiene and cleanliness have always been something I care deeply about, so I was excited to be part of the team. I was also proud to become the hotel’s first male room attendant.

From the start, I showed dedication, focus, and a genuine love for my work. The management recognised this, and I was given the opportunity to further my studies through the International Hotel School, where I completed a course in Housekeeping Management. That opportunity opened the door for me to become Head of Housekeeping here at Champagne Castle Hotel.

I’m very grateful to the hotel for believing in me, and I also know that it was my hard work and commitment that helped me grow into the role. I always wanted to do more, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

What does a typical day look like for you and your team?

A typical day for my team and I involves a variety of activities, depending on the priorities of the day. Some days are busier than others, but with good preparation, even the busiest days can run smoothly. My day usually includes clear communication with my team, ensuring that everyone knows their tasks and expectations. I also focus on professional development, helping my team improve their skills, and I take care of the necessary administrative work to keep everything organised.

Housekeeping often goes unnoticed when done well. What are some of the behind-the-scenes details that guests might be surprised to learn about?

Behind the scenes, housekeeping involves a lot of meticulous work to ensure that every guest experiences a clean, comfortable, and welcoming environment. This includes not only cleaning guest rooms but also maintaining public areas and back-of-house spaces to the same high standards. We also carefully manage our supplies to ensure everything is in place, and we pay close attention to maintaining excellent levels of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the hotel, even in the areas guests may never see.

What do you believe sets the housekeeping team at Champagne Castle Hotel apart from other hotels?

What sets the housekeeping team at Champagne Castle Hotel apart is our exceptional attention to detail and our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness. Our team takes great pride in ensuring that every room and space is prepared with care, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for our guests.

Cleanliness and comfort are vital to the guest experience. How do you and your team ensure consistently high standards across the property?

Our housekeeping team is dedicated to maintaining consistently high standards by paying close attention to detail in everything we do. We take the time to check our work carefully to ensure that every room and area meets the expectations of our guests. This focus on consistency helps us create a comfortable and welcoming environment throughout the property.

Can you share a moment or memory that made you feel especially proud of your team or your role here?

The moments that make me feel most proud of my team are when I read the guest reviews we receive each day and see the compliments about the cleanliness and comfort of their stay. Knowing that our hard work is noticed and appreciated by our guests is a great reminder of the important role we play in their experience at the hotel.

What do you look for when hiring or training someone new for the housekeeping team?

When hiring for the housekeeping team, I look for people who are physically capable of handling the demands of the role and who can work well both independently and as part of a team. It’s important to find individuals who take pride in their work and pay attention to detail, as these qualities help us maintain the high standards our guests expect.

The Drakensberg setting is breathtaking but can also bring unique challenges. Does the natural environment (especially the weather) ever affect your work or routines? If so, in what way?

Yes, the natural environment here in the Drakensberg does affect our work at times, especially during the summer months when we experience heavy rain. The rain can create challenges with mud and wet areas around the property, which means my team needs to work even harder to keep guest rooms and public areas clean and comfortable for our guests.

What do you enjoy most about working at Champagne Castle Hotel?

What I enjoy most about working at Champagne Castle Hotel is the teamwork. We work closely with the other managers and departments, and no matter what challenges come our way, we pull through together. This sense of support and working as one team makes it a great place to work.

If you could share one message with every guest who stays at the hotel, what would it be?

The message I would like to share with every guest is: Welcome to Champagne Castle Hotel. We are so delighted to have you with us. If there is anything you need during your stay, please don’t hesitate to call the front desk. We are here to assist you and make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Vincent’s dedication and the care he brings to his role are a reflection of the values we hold dear at Champagne Castle Hotel. His calm leadership, eye for detail, and team spirit ensure that every guest enjoys a level of comfort that feels effortless, though it’s anything but. The next time you settle into a beautifully prepared room or notice the immaculate surroundings, know that Vincent and his team have quietly worked to make your stay exceptional. We are incredibly proud to have him as part of our family.