Built in 1851 by the Swann family, it became a trading post and boarding house in 1888 for the Trekkers who stopped off before descending the treacherous Umngeni Gorge. Over many years it became a popular holiday resort until the early 1960's, after which it was left to go to rack and ruin.

Gion and Karen Poltera bought the property in October 1989 and painstakingly reconstructed the dilapidated buildings that remained, and within eight months were able to re-open in May 1990.

What started off as a small hotel, with only six bedrooms, a small bar, restaurant and conference room, has developed to great proportions. Today it boasts thirty climate controlled bedrooms, all en-suite, as well as a host of public rooms. The hotel has three conference rooms, two restaurants, two bars & a fully accredited training college for students wishing to develop their skills in the industry.

The hotel is set in twenty-five acres of park-like grounds, with water features, a gazebo, swimming pool, tennis Court, volley ball court and braai/barbeque area.