Only 40 minutes from Durban, the idyllic Cutty Sark Hotel in Scottburgh is far enough away from the hustle and bustle of city life for you to know and feel you're on holiday, but close enough to avoid whining kids in the back seat, padkos and pit stops.
And as soon as you arrive on the doorstep of the 56-year-old hotel, the holiday atmosphere is palpable.
Children run about the beautiful 14-acre grounds, teenagers sun-bathe or frolic in the hotel pool and the middle-aged and elderly lounge in the sun, read books or gather with friends and family for sundowners and hearty conversation.
There is even a small children's pool, trampoline and swing for the littlest holiday-makers.
With a private path to Scottburgh beach and a two-minute drive into town, families won't want for anything and can rest assured their stay, no matter how short or long, will offer all the rejuvenation and relaxation they need.
The rooms are large, bright and airy, and the stunning views overlooking the sea provide just the most perfect good morning greeting one could hope for, while the fresh smell of the ocean and the gentle crashing of the waves is the goodnight kiss which sends you into possibly one of the most tranquil and heavenly sleeps you've ever had.
But a getaway to The Cutty Sark Hotel is not just about the sun, sand and surf. It's a combination of all the things that separate a good holiday from an amazing one. The staff are wonderfully warm and friendly and have such a fondness for children that it immediately puts parents at ease.
And when the little ones are asleep, entertaining themselves or in the care of staff or other family members, the entertainment is endless. From live music, themed evenings and friendly chatter at the restaurant's pubs, the hotel offers something for everyone.
Even my two-year-old could not stay off the dance floor during one of the evening's live music entertainment. In fact, among her first words the next morning were "Come, let's go and dance".
The restaurant offers fine cuisine, from carvery buffets to traditional South African, American, Eastern and English dishes, while the morning spread of cereals, fresh fruit, yoghurt, baked goodies and cooked breakfasts sets the tone for another memorable day.
As beautiful and unpretentious as it is, the hotel is not the start and end of your holiday. It can be the foundation for a varied and fun break on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.
The area is also known as a golfing mecca with more than 20 top-class courses stretching from Durban in the North to The Wild Coast in the South, while Scottburgh has a very active bowling club that welcomes visitors.
Deep-sea fishing is also on offer in the area and the hotel itself is home to Quo Vadis Dive Charters, a professional personalised dive charter for the whole family. This charter also offers unique boat rides for an amazing whale and dolphin watching experience.
For the children, as well as wildlife and nature lovers, Scottburgh is home to the Crocodile Farm, which boasts crocodiles, birds, snakes and other smaller reptiles; while the TC Robertson Nature Reserve is within walking distance of the hotel. Also, the Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve is a mere 20 minutes drive away.
So, all in all, whether you're looking for sun-worshipping, relaxation, adventure or a bit of everything, The Cutty Sark Hotel is the perfect answer. And everyone will feel at home, regardless of whether you're young, old, single, married or have children, or want to wear jeans and slops, sarongs or formal dress for dinner.
Furthermore, there is good news for both the experienced or future Cutty Sark Hotel guest: the hotel is not set to be demolished as rumours and reports claim. It has been standing for decades already and looks to be around for many more.
All that's left to do is take advantage of it.