Glentowy, Southern Drakensberg
The Valley of Peaceful Waters
A Refined Country Experience
Underberg has always held a quiet magic. It’s the kind of place where the rhythm of life slows down, and every view feels like a painting — green pastures rolling into the Drakensberg mountains, rivers glistening through the valleys, and mist that drifts gently across the fields in the early morning.
The name Glentowy is steeped in old-world charm and drawn from ancient Celtic origins. “Glen” speaks of a green valley carved gently by time. “Towy” traces to both the Scottish Highlands and the Welsh Afon Tywi, meaning peaceful river. Together, they form “the valley of the tranquil river”.
Glentowy rests quietly in the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg on a remarkable 64-hectare estate. Here, nature and architecture coexist in perfect harmony — a landscape of water, grass, and stone that invites stillness and reflection.
Architectural Masterpiece
The Johann Slee House
At the heart of Glentowy stands "The House", a masterpiece of contextual architecture and recipient of an Award of Merit from the KwaZulu-Natal Institute of Architects in 1995.
Designed by acclaimed architect Johann Slee, with both restraint and warmth, the home is constructed from 7,000 hand-laid sandstone blocks, each weighing around 50 kilograms, and bound together with 35,000 solid brass screws — a testament to meticulous detail and timeless durability. The materials are honest and elemental: Lesotho sandstone, Rhodesian teak, and Oregon pine. Every surface carries the mark of human craft, yet feels entirely of the landscape itself.
Accommodation
Your Private Sanctuary
Two exclusive self-catering options sleeping up to 12 guests (10+2) across 6 bedrooms, set amongst park-like gardens with over 1,500 indigenous trees.
The House
Accommodates up to 10 guests across 5 bedrooms. Features three fireplaces, generous stack-away doors, and panoramic river views.
The Cottage
A more intimate retreat for up to 2 guests with 1 bedroom (double bed) and a lounge area with a sofa bed. Ideal for couples or smaller families.
The Mzimkulu Experience
World-Class Trout Fishing & Adventure
Glentowy is famed for its technical and rewarding trout fishing along our private stretch of the pristine Mzimkulu River. With crystal-clear waters and low-pressure conditions, it offers an exclusive sanctuary for serious anglers.
Beyond the cast, the 64-hectare estate and surrounding Drakensberg offer endless adventure. From tubing and swimming the river's pools to exploring mountain biking trails and hiking to ancient San rock art, every day brings a new discovery.
The Heart of the Farm
Spanning both sides of the Mzimkulu River, Glentowy offers over 1 km of private river frontage—famed for its trout fishing and the annual Drak Challenge Canoe Race.