The Croft Cottages
A gravel path running between the cottages through planted garden beds

Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Four upcycled cottages in a country garden

Book direct with Lizzi Hayden — no platform fees, no middleman.

The place

A labour of love, built out of what others threw away

Welcome to our enchanting upcycled countryside retreat in Hilton. Nestled among lush gardens and peaceful surroundings, our property is a labour of love and creativity. Every corner has been thoughtfully upcycled, giving the cottages a unique charm. Meet our friendly donkeys as you explore the grounds, breathe in the fresh country air, and unwind in cosy, beautifully appointed cottages with fireplaces and fully equipped kitchens.

Whether you're here to recharge, enjoy family time, or balance work and leisure, our cottages offer the perfect blend of rural serenity and easy access to Hilton village, schools, and amenities. Stroll the gardens, sip your morning coffee or an evening glass of wine under the open sky, and let your worries melt away.

  • The cottages sit in 14,500 m² of flower-filled gardens, with the Mondi Forest across the road for walking, cycling and running.
  • The property is secure with electric fencing and beams, with plenty of free on-site parking.
  • A reliable solar power system keeps every stay uninterrupted.
  • Fibre WiFi throughout, and Netflix on a Samsung Smart TV in each cottage.
  • We have five dogs, three rescue donkeys and free-range chickens.
Planted beds and gravel paths in the garden
The view from the garden out over the misty Midlands hills

The area

Hilton, and the Midlands Meander on your doorstep

Hilton is a charming, peaceful village in the heart of the Natal Midlands, a region known for its rolling hills, lush forests and laid-back country atmosphere. Misty mornings, sunny days and cool evenings make it the perfect setting for a countryside getaway.

As part of the famous Midlands Meander, Hilton gives you access to more than 160 artisanal experiences along scenic routes weaving through quaint towns, markets, galleries, studios, vineyards and eateries. In the village itself you'll find cosy cafés, boutique shops and good restaurants, with forest walks, hiking and cycling routes nearby and views of the Drakensberg in the distance.

What’s nearby

  • Sue Tarr Coffee Shop450 yd
  • La Popote Restaurant600 yd
  • Crossways Country Pub0.8 mi
  • Natal Railway Museum1.5 mi
  • Worlds View2.3 mi
  • Queen Elizabeth Park Nature Reserve4 mi
  • Howick Falls8 mi
  • Midmar Dam10 mi
  • Nelson Mandela Capture Site11 mi
  • Pietermaritzburg Airport10 mi

On site or nearby: tennis court, golf course within 3 km, fishing.

See the location on a map
Lizzi Hayden on the drive with two of the rescue donkeys

Your host

Meet Lizzi Hayden

Hi, I'm Lizzi. I love welcoming people from all walks of life and sharing the magic of our little corner of Hilton. Hosting gives me the joy of connecting with guests and caring for our friendly rescue donkeys and free-range chickens. The property was originally built in 1958, and since we purchased it in 2018, I've overseen a careful renovation with minimalist designs and plenty of upcycling — blending the charm of the original cottages with modern comfort. My passion is making every stay special, whether it's a cosy weekend escape, a family holiday, or a longer retreat.

Our rescue donkeys Leliah, Banksy and Alfie love carrots, bananas and cuddles. Lizzi is the person you deal with from your first message to check-out.

9.5/10

Exceptional on Booking.com

166

Booking.com reviews

Superhost

376+ reviews on Airbnb

7 years

Welcoming guests here

Staff
9.9
Cleanliness
9.9
Comfort
9.9
Facilities
9.8
Location
9.8
Value for money
9.6
Free WiFi
9.5

Category scores from 166 Booking.com reviews.

Book direct

Ready when you are

Check live availability and book straight with Lizzi Hayden — no platform in the middle, and no service fee on top.

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Or call +27 82 589 4738

Before you book

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Find us
1A Dennis Shepstone Drive, Hilton, 3304, South Africa

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