HOW brave are you really? Brave enough to spend a night or two in the company of ghosts and ghouls?
Our sister publication, the Zululand Observer has compiled this list of the creepiest accommodation in the country.
Lord Milner Hotel, Matjiesfontein, Karoo
The Lord Milner which was completed in 1899 apparently has some ghosts of the past lingering around. Matjiesfontein was originally frequented by those using the Karoo air to seek relief from chest complaints. During the Anglo-Boer War, 10 000 British soldiers and 20 000 horses camped on the fields beyond the railway line, with the hotel being used as an infirmary. The most famous ghost being seen is Olive Schreiner and James Logan who likes the lounges. Then there is card-loving Kate who’s been heard shuffling decks, a negligee-clad Lucy who has never checked out and soldiers on the stairwell. Still, the staff claim they’ve never seen a ghost.
Foxwood House, Johannesburg
Apart from mysterious footsteps, a lady, a child and Paul Kruger have been seen on the balcony of this historic boutique hotel in Houghton, close to Joburg’s business districts. The house which was built in 1924 is surrounded by lush gardens and has large luxurious suites, with not much changes being made over the years.
The Kimberley Club, Kimberley
Wealthy philanthropist Joe van Praagh resides here and will grace you with his presence if you stay at the boutique hotel that takes you back to the diamond era. He has been seen in the reading room on the first floor.
This KZN manor house with its creaking floors and Tudor-style accommodation has no fewer than seven ghosts. You could share a pint with two ghostly drunkards in the bar or bump into one of the three men who reside on the third floor. Then there’s childminder Ruth, seven-year-old Matilda and Wisp, one of the only known ghost dogs in the country. Ghost tours take place every Saturday night, with prizes for the best paranormal photo taken. If ghost hunting isn’t your thing, you can also enjoy horse riding, swimming, tennis and bowling.
Zorgvliet Country Lodge, Stellenbosch
This wine farm is not only one of the Cape’s oldest farms, but is situated in a region where travellers once feared to tread as the dense forest was inhabited by gangs, escaped slaves and wild animals. Today there are mischievous spirits who open and close doors or play with light switches in the tasting room in the original homestead.
Glen Lodge and Pub, Cape Town
Enjoy a sea view with the company of two resident ghosts by your side. This family-friendly spot between Fish Hoek and Simon’s Town is perfect to watch southern right whales in False Bay. But at nighttime a woman and a little boy come out on the stairs of the hotel and their presence is occasionally felt when furniture is moved around.
The Nottingham Road Hotel, Nottingham Road, KZN
Get your room cleaned by the resident house-proud ghost Charlotte at this historical landmark hotel along the Midlands Meander. If your room is left untidy, you are likely to find it neat on return. Charlotte seemingly favours room number 10, as this is where it is rumoured that she fell to her death.
