Fodor's Expert Review Budmarsh Country Lodge

Surrounded by a lush garden in the heart of the Magaliesberg, this lodge has rooms with beautiful antique furniture and is a good place to base yourself if you just want to get into the country for a river ramble or a mountain hike–even the drive is scenic. Dinner (reservations essential) is a four-course set menu of French-influenced cuisine that changes daily. Even if you don't stay overnight, drive through for a delightful gourmet picnic (24-hour advance bookings required) beneath the shade of the trees, along the edge of the small stocked dam, or try your hand at catch-and-release fishing.