Frog & Fern Cottages, Chimanimani

Frog & Fern Cottages are self-catering cottages in Chimanimani village, formerly known as Melsetter, at the foot of the Chimanimani Mountains. The owners, Jane and Dee, both born in Zimbabwe, designed the cottages and started the project in 1990.

There are three units built of stone, thatch and wood: Miombo, which sleeps 6 over two storeys with two bathrooms; Msasa, with a large open verandah; and Mzanje Cabin, with a stone braai. Miombo and Mzanje both have a Jetmaster fireplace. Each unit has the crockery, cutlery and pots you need, so you bring your own food and drink. Jose can cook for an extra fee. The property takes a maximum of 12 guests at a time, and there is also a camp site with plug points, a private boma fire, shower and toilet.

The cottages share a boundary with the Eland Sanctuary. Bridal Veil Falls is about 3 km away and the Chimanimani National Park base camp is about 18 km away. The cottages are 1.5 km from the tarred road, but the village roads are poor dirt, so a 4x4 is recommended, though sedans can manage.