Crab Apple’s philosophy is to stay close to nature and be of service to the community - an extension of Christ’s work. Determined to preserve the natural beauty of the area, Barend and Helen are active members of the Dargle Conservancy. The property is a Nature Reserve under the Biodiversity Stewardship Programme.
OUR GARDENS
For rose lovers, Helen’s hundreds of roses are a treat of colour and fragrance in springtime.
Crab Apple, South Africa
Crab Apple, South Africa
As Crab Apple endeavours to preserve the area's natural beauty, please feel free to release any nature-friendly substances such as petals, bubbles, butterflies or birds on exiting the chapel but please avoid anything that will need to be cleared away or could harm the environment. We would also appreciate you leaving the gardens and its surrounds as you have found them.
Because Crab Apple recognises that our neighbours have chosen to live in the Dargle precisely because it is away from the noise and congestion of the city, we cannot allow any function to run into the evening. The gardens are only available during daylight hours and no loud music is to be played.
The chapel is situated at the end of a 3 km gravel road.
Should you be looking for accommodation in the area, please remember Crab Apple Cottages are just up the hill. For further details, please go to the
CHAPEL
Quintessentially country, the Crab Apple Chapel is deep in the Dargle Valley, just 20kms from Howick. The large feature windows allow the warm glowing sun and natural surrounds of forest and farmlands form a glorious backdrop. Multi-denominational, your own pastor will be welcomed and the chapel seats up to 138 people on church pews.
The chapel is set in a picturesque garden with rolling lawns. This has appealed to several bridal couples for their post-ceremony reception. It's ideal for those looking for a less formal event, a place in which they can express their own style whether it be high tea or a picnic. This space is lovely for socialising and taking photos. There is no additional charge for the use of the grounds, however, it's use is weather dependant.
The hire of the Crab Apple Chapel includes the pews, lectern, two candelabra, 8 wall sconces for candles, a single stand-alone candle stand, an electronic keyboard, a full sound system including the speakers, 2 cordless microphones and a red carpet laid down the aisle. The florist chosen for the occasion is welcome to decorate the chapel with appropriate flowers and ribbons.
As Crab Apple endeavours to preserve the area's natural beauty, please feel free to release any nature-friendly substances such as petals, bubbles, butterflies or birds on exiting the chapel but please avoid anything that will need to be cleared away or could harm the environment. We would also appreciate you leaving the gardens and its surrounds as you have found them.
Because Crab Apple recognises that our neighbours have chosen to live in the Dargle precisely because it is away from the noise and congestion of the city, we cannot allow any function to run into the evening. The gardens are only available during daylight hours and no loud music is to be played.
The chapel is situated at the end of a 3 km gravel road.
Should you be looking for accommodation in the area, please remember Crab Apple Cottages are just up the hill. For further details, please go to the
COTTAGES
Delightfully comfortable, Crab Apple’s AA Superior Cottages are set on the edge of the Kilgobbin Forest and the Dargle Valley Conservancy. Generations of visitors have experienced the soul-restoring reassurance that comes with being surrounded by the beauty of creation. The forest is filled with ancient trees, animals and over 200 species of birds. Find out more about birding and our walking trails here.
Retreat to one of our three thatched, self-catering cottages furnished with every comfort. The spacious, open plan living area, leads onto a sun deck. Each bedroom has a queen-sized bed and the loft, just up above the living area, has two single beds, so is ideal for the children. There is an antique cast iron Victorian tub and shower in the en-suite bathroom. The heated pool, braai and entertainment area are available for you to use. Fur-children are permitted by arrangement.
Our delicious spring water, from the taps, is drinkable. We have also invested in a generator to ensure that should Eskom load shed, you will enjoy the luxury of a continuous electricity supply. There will be no ‘lights out’ during your stay with us. Enjoy our free Wi-Fi.
STARRED ROBIN COTTAGE
Starred Robin Cottage is a quaint, English-style country cottage, decorated with oak furniture and a cream and white palette. The deck is garlanded with rambling roses and overlooks a fairy ring of Silver Birch trees and the rolling lawn leads down into the forest's stream. The cottage's namesake, a pair of Starred Robins.
CROWNED EAGLE COTTAGE
Tucked into the forest, Crowned Eagle Cottage is both modern and warm decorated in rich reds and oranges. The porcelain lamp fitting was restored by Helen and her father. The wooden deck provides a breath-taking view over the forest. This is the territory of a pair of Crowned Eagles.
WOOD OWL COTTAGE
An African Elegance vibe was instilled in Wood Owl Cottage. Mohair curtains, wicker chairs and dark wood furniture create luxurious warmth and elegance along with the bespoke four poster bed. This cottage offers many pleasures - the deck overlooks the forest.
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