Welcome to Moorfield Private Nature Reserve

Located within the greater Ncandu Forest and Grassland Reserve we offer Accommodation, Day Visits, Camping, Hiking and a space for gatherings or special events.

Moorfield has recently been declared a private Nature Reserve, adding its beautiful terrain to the protected areas of South Africa in perpetuity.

We are situated just below 2000 m in the mist belt of the upper Drakensberg reaches, near Newcastle, Kwazulu Natal (35km), and Memel, Free State (30km). People come here to enjoy pristine nature in this beautiful and dramatic landscape. Moorfield can be reached from Johannesburg in about 4 hours. We offer Self-Catering Accommodation as well as Camping and Day Visits.

On arrival, please sign in, or check in at Reception.

PLEASE NOTE:

We will be closed to the public  during the following dates:

October 18-23, and also December 6-16.

No Day Visitors will be admitted during this time.

Accommodation

We offer a range of peaceful, self-catering accommodation options suited for overnight getaways, family holidays, and group retreats. Surrounded by untouched landscapes, our stays give you the freedom to unwind and set your own rhythm.

What to do

Unplug and immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of nature. Relax on our open lawns, cool off in the river, or head out to explore our scenic walking trails and waterfalls. Moorfield is a peaceful, self-catering getaway where you set your own pace.

(Bring-your-own picnics and braais welcome. Children’s jungle gym on site.)

Oakleaf

An indoor/ outdoor space is available at Oakleaf for your function or gathering. Please contact Moorfield for more information. This facility has a covered stoep, indoor and outdoor braai, kitchen, and gathering area as well as ablutions.

About Moorfield

Moorfield is a place of great natural beauty which has been incorporated into the Greater Ncandu Forest and Grassland Reserve, along with several other farms in the area of the Ncandu Nature Reserve. It is a guest farm and nature reserve tucked into the hills on the escarpment above Newcastle, Kwazulu Natal. The biodiversity of nature and the beauty of its dramatic natural setting make it well worth a visit.

Hike, camp, swim, braai, picnic on the lawns, in the hills, gorge, river, overhangs and forest pockets. Book a cosy self catering accommodation and experience the incredible natural beauty for yourself.

To protect the wildlife and tranquility of Moorfield, no loud music / portable speakers and no littering are permitted. Please note that there is no restaurant or shop on-site; guests must bring all their own food and drinks.

Day visitors

Day visitors are welcome at Moorfield on weekends and public holidays from 7am till 5pm. There is no need to book for a day visit. Other days and times are available by arrangement with Lindie on 0713077917.

Moorfield has long been a destination for visitors from the area for hikes, picnics, braais and swimming. When you arrive, please sign in at Reception. Then you are welcome to choose a spot on the big lawn, or set out on a hike, or a swim in the Ncandu river. There is a children’s play area as well. Explore the forests, gorge, river and overhangs.

Group Function Facilities:

Burnham Hall can be hired for your group or function on a self-catering basis.
For weekday rates, Whatsapp Lindie on 0713077917 for the hall only. We may be able to offer basic catering such as braais and tea/ coffee by arrangement. Tables and chairs can be provided.

Please note that on weekends, Burnham Hall can only host your group until 3 pm, after which evening rates include accommodation charges. This is because the hall is close to the accommodation and any noise carries.

For exclusive use venue and accommodation packages please email home@moorfield.co.za

Oakleaf is our public space available for use by campers and day visitors and it includes our camping ablutions.
This would also be suitable for smaller groups or gatherings, kitchen space available.

Pets:

  • Well trained pets may come to Moorfield with Day Visitors or Campers only. Pets must stay on a lead within the Moorfield Homestead fenced area at all times, as there are Moorfield dogs, cats, livestock and wildlife on site, which must be respected at all times.
  • Outside the fence, with you on hikes, you may let your pets off lead if they follow your voice commands and don’t harass livestock or wildlife.
  • We do not currently have a pet friendly accommodation available. We are working on having one in future.

What we offer

Moorfield is an untouched, self-catering nature sanctuary. We hire out space and tranquility, everything you need for your stay or day out is bring-your-own.

  • Scenic Trails & River Walks: Explore walking routes, indigenous bush, and river paths at your own pace.
  • Swimming & Paddling: Take a dip in the fresh river water (bring your own towels and swimwear).
  • Braais & Picnics: Enjoy designated lawn and braai areas (bring your own grid, charcoal/wood, and picnic basket).
  • Kids Play Area: Jungle gym for younger visitors.

Good to Know Before You Visit

  • No Restaurant or Shop: We do not have a restaurant; there is a very small tuck shop at reception where you can buy a cold drink or crisps.
  • No Organised Activities: There are no entertainment programmes, or resort activities.
  • Peace & Quiet: To protect wildlife and guest privacy, portable music speakers and littering are strictly prohibited.
  • You may hire a hiking guide on arrival by your own arrangement, if one is available, or request in advance by Whatsapp on 0713077917.

Hikes

There are many possible hikes at Moorfield, ranging from gentle ambles to adventurous and strenuous hikes. The good news is you don’t need to go far or steep to be in the beautiful nature and scenery of Moorfield!

Near to the camping and picnicking spots is the beautiful Ncandu River, with paddling and pools suitable for swimming; and of course a couple of waterfalls, with the gorge opening up from there. Our tallest waterfall has a 32m drop, and is a beautiful sight. Please use caution!

There are many places to discover at Moorfield. Besides the river and waterfalls there are forest pockets, overhangs and caves as well as many beautiful views into the valley, set into beautiful high grasslands with a multitude of flora and fauna.

The elevation change within Moorfield’s borders are nearly 500m, as it lies directly on the escarpment. Please be prepared on visits to Moorfield that the weather can be changeable and we can experience more extremes than elsewhere. We regularly experience high winds, and sometimes more rain than elsewhere nearby.

Past Events

A practical course on Butterflies and a weekend
with South African author and expert Steve Woodhall.

  • Butterfly safaris
  • Informative lectures
  • Nighttime moth safari
  • Other fun activities

Steve Woodhall is the author of the popular Field Guide to Butterflies of South Africa and is South Africa’s lead- ing expert on these amazing creatures.

“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”

Albert Einstein