Welcome to Glen Islay

6 years ago “our dream” was put into motion and in March 2021, it became a reality. We bought this acre of property and began to put our dreams into action.

We had found our forever home nestled in an overgrown secret garden overlooking the Himeville Conservancy and its dam.  We consider our view a painting and the everchanging light, hues, and shadows mean our painting is ever-changing.

Michelle’s family originates from the area. Her great grandfather’s both farmed here. The Malcolm’s at the farm “Isla” though Papa and Gran settled in Arbuckle road Himeville in their latter years. The McKenzie side of the family farmed “Seaforth” on the Sani Road.

As fate or karma would have it, Michelle asked Peter to think of a happy childhood place and memory and he recalled a friend’s family farm in Zimbabwe with a similar name.

So Glen Islay it became.

Our cottage is equipped with almost everything needed for a comfortable welcoming home from home.  This quaint iron-clad unit, reminiscent of the units occupied by the first settlers, opens into a luxurious interior. Breathtaking views across the Himeville Nature Reserve, excellent service and genuine hospitality. We are a home for your unforgettable time.

Click here to see our impeccable Bedrooms and Bathroom:

Click here to see our Kitchen and Barbeque areas

Pricing:

For the entire unit contact michelle@glenislaycottage.com

Pack your clothes and arrive. 

There is no need to bring anything other than your clothes as we have provided everything we could think of that you may need or want to fulfil the dream of a perfect holiday.

Your unit will be serviced daily so no need to worry about those dirty dishes and at a small additional charge, we have a manicurist who will pop in to do your nails, a quick massage or a gentle pedicure, perhaps even persuade the family to give you time for a full facial.

There is a fIre-place for the cooler weather and we also have a smoke detector, fire extinguisher and an ipad safe.  There is a Volcano sound system, Full DSTV., games, puzzles and books. 

However if you want to take it outside there is a picnic basket and blanket and a cooler box filled with ice, or keep it close to home and we’ll provide a braai fire with meat and salads. 

Please bring the kids.  We have a baby cot and high chair a kiddies play area and a stair guard to keep them safe and away from harm.    

At a small extra charge we will wash and iron your dirties, offer a child minding service, book an airport/home transfer or drop you off at your hiking/riding start, we can even collect you thereafter.

And if we don’t have it, ask us and we’ll do our best to provide whatever you need.  We enjoy keeping our guests contented.

Taste wholesome country cuisine from a variety of quaint restaurants/eateries under the golden sun of Underberg: enjoy fine dishes and wines at a gourmet restaurant or crispy fish and chips at an outdoor diner. Cook your own meals in the quaint kitchen (send us a shopping list before you arrive and we’ll have your favourite ingredients stocked in the cupboards) or feeling really lazy we’ll deliver a gorgeous picnic basket or your choice of dinner to your front door. There’s a choice of restaurants locally, let us know if you’d prefer us to book a meal prior to arrival. Or book a breakfast for two for R250 at the Whistling Goat.

• Whistling Goat – Eatery for breakfasts, teas, and lunches.  Call 083 680 6136 (Closes 15h00) https://www.facebook.com/The-Whistling-Goat-107928241347475/
• Malachite Restaurant – good country cooking. Open most nights 083 645 2026 https://malachitemanor.co.za/dining-at-malachite-manor/ 
• The Grind – pizza’s and the like. Open most nights – you can phone your order and collect later    033 701 1571  https://www.facebook.com/TheGrindCafeUnderberg/

• The Lemon Tree – Open during the day, vegetarian and general fare. Not open in the evening’s Call 033 702 1589  .http://www.lemontreeb.co.za/  
• The Waterfall Restaurant – tasty country cooking. Must book 078 971 8600 .https://www.facebook.com/The-Old-Hatchery-Waterfall-Restaurant-DrakensbergUnderberg-109718727500643/

Every moment of your journey is important for us and that is exactly why we want to be sure you’ve enjoyed the stay at Glen Islay. Leave your feedback to help us be better for you or share your sunny memories and holiday experience.

We appreciate and gladly welcome your opinion and comments!