Before the playlists, packing lists and year-end deadlines kick in, there’s a sweet spot - that gentle pause between Spring and Summer where calm still has a seat at the table. November is that moment. It’s the perfect time to escape somewhere beautiful, sip something slowly, and recharge before the festive whirlwind begins.
Whether you’re craving coastal charm, countryside peace or somewhere you can just breathe again, First Group has the perfect holiday resorts to give you just the calm you need before the celebrations roll in.
Sanbonani Resort: A Tranquil Riverside Escape in Hazyview
Set where the Sabie and Sand Rivers meet, Sanbonani Resort is that rare find - peaceful, green and perfectly placed for a pre-festive reset. Mornings drift by to the sound of birds and water, afternoons invite lazy swims or a spa treatment, and sunsets paint the Lowveld in gold. This is the kind of calm that carries you into December, recharged. For bush getaways in South Africa that feel both refreshing and effortless, Sanbonani makes the top of the list. Book your riverside escape at Sanbonani before the year-end buzz begins.
La Côte d’Azur – Coastal Ease on the Margate Shoreline
If the sea is your happy place, La Côte d’Azur offers that early-summer magic - warm breezes, endless views, and a slower coastal rhythm. The beachfront setting, modern comforts, and soft hum of the ocean make it ideal for a lighthearted pre-holiday break. Here, mornings start with beach walks and end with ocean sunsets — a perfect prelude to the festive season. Ease into the holidays early. Plan your coastal escape to La Côte d’Azur. When you’re ready to unwind before December’s rush, La Côte d’Azur offers just the right balance - family fun, ocean air and easy moments that let you slow down together.
Hole in the Wall – The Wild Coast’s Hidden Calm
Few places say “pause” quite like Hole in the Wall. Along the untamed Wild Coast, towering cliffs and crashing waves remind you that slowing down is natural. This is a retreat for the soul - unplugged, unhurried and breathtakingly real. Wake to the sound of the ocean, wander barefoot along the beach, and let the Wild Coast reset your senses before December’s rush. Go off grid before the festivities start. Discover Hole in the Wall.
Between sunrise strolls and seaside sunsets, Hole in the Wall invites you to embrace the best of both worlds - the quiet of nature and the comfort of thoughtful amenities. Whether you’re after gentle adventure or total stillness, there’s something here for every mood.
Midlands Saddle & Trout – Country Calm with a View
When you picture “breathing space,” it probably looks a lot like the KZN Midlands. Rolling green hills, horse trails, and dam-side sunsets set the scene at Midlands Saddle & Trout. Perfect for couples or families, it’s the kind of countryside comfort that softens your edges before year-end pressure peaks. From long lunches to fireside evenings, this is pre-festive peace, Midlands-style. Escape to the hills - your Midlands getaway awaits.
Before the festive buzz begins, slow down and savour the simple pleasures of the Midlands. From horse rides and forest zip lines to quiet picnics under endless skies, every moment here reminds you that balance begins in nature.
Nearby Highlights
• Explore the Midlands Meander’s art studios, cafés, and farm stalls.
• Visit the historic Mandela Capture Site.
Cape Gordonia – Coastal Calm in Gordon’s Bay
In Gordon’s Bay, where the mountains meet the sea, Cape Gordonia offers a quieter side of Cape Town’s coastline. The views stretch endlessly, mornings are made for coffee on the balcony, and the marina below hums with easy charm. It’s sophisticated yet soothing — the perfect Western Cape getaway to rest and reset before summer social season arrives. Savour the stillness. Book your ocean-view stay at Cape Gordonia.
For those who prefer their calm with a touch of sophistication, Cape Gordonia’s luxury apartments offer everything needed for a relaxing and convenient Western Cape coastal getaway.
While You’re There
• Take a scenic drive along Clarence Drive towards Hermanus - one of South Africa’s most beautiful coastal routes.
• Spend the day exploring Gordon’s Bay beachfront cafés or enjoying local seafood with a view.
• Unwind with a sunset braai and the sound of waves as your backdrop.
La Montagne – Ballito’s Breezy Pre-Holiday Escape
If you’d rather greet the season with sunshine and salt air, La Montagne in Ballito delivers that upbeat kind of calm. The beach is on your doorstep, the spa is waiting, and long afternoons call for lazy cocktails and laughter. It’s not about hiding from the holidays — it’s about meeting them recharged, relaxed, and ready. Unwind by the ocean. Your pre-festive season getaway starts at La Montagne.
Before December’s excitement arrives, La Montagne lets you slow down without losing the spark. From lively board-game nights to movie evenings beneath the stars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy - all with that unmistakable North Coast breeze in the background.
Nearby Highlights
• Lifestyle Shopping Centre & Ballito Junction
• Wave House & Willard Beach
• Snorkelling (off-site)
• Flag Animal Farm & Crocodile Creek
• Club Venture & local Golf Courses
• Sibaya Casino & Gateway Theatre of Shopping
• Umhlanga Beach & Fishing (off-site)
Pause Now, Play Later
There’s something special about this moment - the quiet before the festive season takes centre stage. Whether you’re drawn to mountains, rivers, or the sea, First Group’s South African resorts make it easy to find your calm before the celebrations begin. Beat the December rush. Explore all First Group holiday resorts at https://www.firstgroup-sa.co.za/
“Year’s end is neither an end nor beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us.” – Hal Borland