.

The view out to sea from the Tradewinds terrace.

A quiet country hotel in the tranquil surroundings of a little town – that’s how Tradewinds Country Inn describes itself, and that’s exactly how I found it to be.

Tradewinds is just off the N2 in Mtunzini, on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. It is an hour-and-a-half drive from Durban, equidistant to Durban, Hluhluwe, Mkuze and St Lucia.

Set in tranquil and beautiful surroundings, the three-star Tradewinds has 35 rooms – six double and the remainder twin en-suite rooms, each with their own character.

Some are in the main building next to the long pool, with views over the lagoon and sea, and others are garden rooms, all offering homely comforts in a relaxing, private atmosphere.

The honeymoon suite in the quiet country garden has exquisite furnishings, a queen-size bed and a large bathroom, and provides the perfect end to a great day.

All rooms have tea and coffee making facilities, DStv, airconditioners and ceiling fans, laundry service and limited room service.

The hotel has 35 rooms, some in the main building next to the pool.

.

Hazel Poorter and her assistant manager, Felicity Mthembu, head a great team at Tradewinds.

Hazel regularly organises weddings and conferences and Tradewinds is a popular teambuilding venue, with plenty of open lawn and spaces for businessmen to unwind.

The conference room can seat up to 80 and there’s a private room that can seat about 30.

Tradewinds offers a quaint outdoor country wedding setting with the airconditioned function hall able to take up to 120 guests.

Chefs Bona Mabika and Nonto Zungu are always hard at work behind the scenes preparing scrumptious breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

You can choose to dine in the ambience of the private dining room or Traditional Tides Inn à la carte restaurant. Weather permitting, the Terrace – with its expansive views – is a pleasant option. You can also enjoy cocktails or a sundowner in the Mahogany Reef ladies bar.

Tradewinds can arrange numerous activities – fishing, sundowner barge cruises on the lagoon or braais. Of course, you can take leisurely walks on the white sandy beaches and in the nearby forest.

Tradewinds gently blows you back to a calmer, unhurried time.

Their rates are reasonable – from just R420 a night per person sharing, or R546 for singles. Call Tradewinds Country Inn at 035 340 2266 or 081 339 4149; e-mail Contact Tradewinds Country Inn on 035 340 2266/ 081 339 4149, e-mail info@tradewindscountryinn.co.za or visit www.tradewindscountryinn.co.za. - Sunday Tribune