Welcome to St Ives Lodge & Venue
Discover the Beauty of our hidden gem in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
Nestled in the heart of the enchanting KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, St Ives Lodge & Venue offers a peaceful countryside escape where nature, comfort, and family hospitality come together. As a family-run destination with a deep love for the outdoors, St Ives is built around simplicity, tranquility, and authentic Midlands charm. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend getaway, a romantic escape, a family holiday, or an extended stay exploring the Midlands Meander, St Ives provides the perfect setting to unwind and reconnect with nature.
A Midlands Escape Like No Other
Wake up to breathtaking valley views, fresh country air, and the peaceful sounds of nature. Guests can enjoy a truly unique outdoor experience surrounded by free-roaming wildlife and beautiful natural landscapes.
At St Ives, you may encounter:
Zebras
Wildebeest
Impala
Blesbok
Other antelope species
Abundant birdlife throughout the estate
Nature lovers, photographers, birdwatchers, and families will find endless beauty to explore.
The Boma Restaurant & Bar
Enjoy delicious meals at our onsite restaurant, The Boma Restaurant & Bar, a relaxed family-friendly venue perfect for casual dining and social gatherings.
Our menu features:
Wood-fired pizzas
The BEST burgers in the Midlands
Seafood
Steaks & ribs
Craft drinks & refreshments
and much more…
Relax around the fire pit, catch live sports, or simply soak in the stunning Midlands atmosphere.
Weddings, Conferences & Special Events
St Ives Lodge & Venue is home to a beautiful wedding venue and modern conference facilities designed to host unforgettable occasions.
Perfect for:
Weddings
Corporate conferences
Family celebrations
Team-building events
Private functions
Our scenic setting and dedicated hospitality team help create memorable experiences for every guest.
Activities & Experiences
There’s something for everyone to enjoy at St Ives Lodge & Venue:
Bass dams for fishing
Outdoor swimming pool
Traditional lodge braai area
Kids zipline & playground
Scenic walking areas
Wildlife & birdwatching
Relaxing countryside atmosphere
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or quality family time, St Ives offers the ideal balance.
Experience Midlands Hospitality
From cosy lodge accommodation to unforgettable sunsets over the valley, St Ives Lodge & Venue invites you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories.
Ready to unwind in nature’s embrace?
We look forward to welcoming you to St Ives Lodge & Venue, where countryside comfort meets Midlands adventure.
The History of st ives
Prior to the 1800's the Midlands of Natal was used by the Zulu royal as a hunting reserve which was abundant with elephant and lion. The last lion to be killed in the whole district was shot in a deep gulley on St Ives Hill, and the shooting of this lion resulted in the area, looking down onto the river below, to be called “Lions River”.
The name St Ives originates from the birthplace of John Day, who was born at St Ives, Huntingdonshire in England and purchased the farm from the Boer Settlers in 1862.
The first Durban to Johannesburg railway line ran directly through St Ives and reached Johannesburg in 1893.
St Ives was established as a horse stud in the early 1900's and was a renowned nursery for top thoroughbreds including the horse “Legacy” winner of the July handicap in 1933. ridden by Ernest "Tinker" Lariviere, the betting stood at 13 to 2 and won William Raw, the owner of St Ives at the time 5000 pounds.
“Let No Dissention Arise In Our Beloved Borough Of St Ives and Let No Man Decry The Legacy Of St Ives
* Nearby Attractions include: The Nelson Mandela Capture Site, The Karkloof Canopy Tours, Epic Karting and a Large Number of Local Businesses to explore along the Midlands Meander
