One on Hely

One on Hely is a charming boutique guesthouse located in the tranquil coastal village of Mtunzini, KwaZulu-Natal. This 4-star accommodation offers a perfect blend of comfort and elegance, making it an ideal retreat for both leisure and business travelers. The guesthouse is conveniently situated on the main road into Mtunzini, providing easy access to local attractions and the stunning Umlalazi Nature Reserve.

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The guesthouse features nine beautifully appointed rooms, each with its own private entrance and balcony, offering spectacular views over the Indian Ocean and the lush indigenous forests. Guests can choose between elegant double rooms with either twin or king extra-length beds, all equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, free WiFi, a refrigerator, and a flat-screen TV. The stylish en suite bathrooms add a touch of luxury to your stay.

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One on Hely prides itself on providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The lounge and dining room open onto a pool deck that overlooks a large expanse of indigenous forest, creating a serene setting for relaxation. Guests can enjoy a scrumptious full South African breakfast served next to the sparkling pool, and there are several excellent restaurants nearby for lunch and dinner options.

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Mtunzini is renowned for its rich birdlife, making One on Hely a fantastic base for birdwatchers. The Umlalazi Nature Reserve, just a short distance from the guesthouse, is home to a diverse array of bird species. Notable sightings include the Palm-nut Vulture, often seen soaring above the reserve, and the Mangrove Kingfisher, a seasonal visitor found in the mangrove forests. The Spotted Ground Thrush, a winter visitor, can be seen in the forest undergrowth, while the secretive Green Twinspot is spotted in the dense forest areas. The reserve’s varied habitats, from coastal forests to mangroves and grasslands, support a wide range of birds, providing excellent birding opportunities throughout the year.

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One on Hely is also an excellent base for visiting the nearby Dlinza Forest in Eshowe . The Dlinza Forest, a 250-hectare indigenous coastal scarp forest, is famous for its aerial boardwalk that allows visitors to view the forest canopy and its inhabitants from above. This forest is home to over 90 bird species, including the Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon and the Green Malkoha. The forest trails offer a chance to see blue duikers, bushpigs, and a variety of butterflies.

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Ongoye Forest, another nearby gem, is an ancient coastal scarp forest covering almost 4,000 hectares. This forest is home to rare and endemic species such as the Green Barbet, Ngoye Red Squirrel, and the Forest Green Butterfly. Birdwatchers can also spot the Yellow-streaked Greenbul and the Narina Trogon. The forest’s diverse flora includes giant umzimbeet, forest mangosteen, and several species of fig trees.

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In addition to birdwatching, guests can explore the beautiful beaches, enjoy hiking trails, or take part in various water sports available in the area. One on Hely offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, ensuring a memorable stay for all its guests.