Vaal Villa

Time Out Says

Just an hour’s drive from Johannesburg, Vaal Villa is an ideal getaway destination for large groups looking to relax, reconnect and create lasting memories. At the beginning of every year, my family makes it a tradition to set the tone for the year ahead by going on vacation together, prioritising bonding time and shared experiences.

This January, we chose Vaal Villa in Vanderbijlpark, which offers seven bedrooms and five bathrooms. With a group of 11 adults and four children, I was slightly anxious about whether the property would truly cater to all our needs. From the moment we arrived, those concerns quickly disappeared.

Why stay at Vaal Villa?  

Large wooden gates secure the property and feature a striking, castle-like architectural design. While the exterior wall near the gate may not immediately impress and almost feels intentionally rustic or vintage, the inside of the property is nothing short of breathtaking. Once inside, you’re welcomed by well-maintained green lawns and neatly trimmed trees, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. The gate entrance itself gives off an “old-money” aesthetic, which we absolutely loved.

Stepping into the villa is an experience on its own. The interiors are elegant and stylish, blending luxury with a vintage farmhouse feel. The high ceilings and beautifully decorated entrance make for a perfect photo spot. The property has two storeys, with the ground floor featuring two large, fully equipped kitchens fitted with modern appliances. From a dishwasher, microwave, oven and stove to a kettle, cutlery and crockery, everything needed for a self-catering stay was thoughtfully provided - a huge relief for a large family like ours.

What are the rooms like at Vaal Villa? 

All seven rooms were spacious, neat, and offered great views, overlooking the stunning greenery and river on the premises. The furniture in the rooms and throughout the premises is spectacular and vintage. 

One of the standout indoor spaces was a dedicated chill room ideal for relaxing and enjoying drinks. The room included an ice machine - a particularly thoughtful touch, especially on a hot summer day like the day we visited, as it meant we never had to worry about refilling ice trays.

What are the standout facilities at Vaal Villa? 

Vaal Villa is exceptionally family-friendly. The kids were thoroughly entertained by a designated play area featuring slides and a jungle gym, while the expansive green lawn provided ample space for outdoor games. We had packed a ball, and the little ones spent hours running around and playing freely. Meanwhile, the adults made the most of the pool area, enjoying relaxed moments by the pool. We also played on the pool table, which was available in one of the rooms. There is a television in one of the lounges, making it ideal for those who want to watch movies.

The property also boasts a boma and multiple living and entertainment areas. There is a spacious dining area furnished with beautiful architectural chairs and tables, perfect for hosting family meals. A study filled with a wide variety of books quickly became a favourite for the older generation. My dad, in particular, couldn’t stop raving about it, describing it as one of the most unique features of the villa. The collection encompasses a wide range of materials, from the Guinness Book of Records to books on Nelson Mandela and other diverse topics, catering to a variety of interests. 

Water-based activities were undoubtedly the biggest highlight of our stay. The villa features a clean swimming pool, and a jacuzzi. On our first night, the family spent hours in the jacuzzi well into the early morning, feeling completely safe and at ease. There is also an option for group boat rides,  kayaking or canoeing, adding another layer of fun to the experience.

The braai area is conveniently located next to one of the living spaces and overlooks a play and entertainment area. It features a pool table and a large table with plenty of seating, allowing some family members to relax and chat while others swim or braai. The multiple living rooms made it easy for everyone to enjoy their own space when needed - teens and young adults could play games, adults could have uninterrupted conversations, and kids could play without disturbing anyone. The soundproofing, particularly around the bedrooms, was impressive.

Adding to the charm of the villa is its impressive art collection. Several striking pieces are displayed throughout the house, some of which celebrate South African heritage, adding character and cultural depth to the space. I really enjoyed admiring the art around the premises.

My family is musical, and having two pianos on the premises was a great asset. We played music, sang, and created beautiful shared moments together.

To top it all off, the property offers reliable Wi-Fi, ensuring you can stay connected if needed.

Golf-lovers are also in for a treat. There is an on-site golf course.

The villa offers ample parking space and feels secure, even at night.

What’s the area like around the Vaal Villa? 

The Vaal Villa is located in Vanderbijlpark, directly on the banks of the Vaal River. As we drove around the area, we experienced a sense of peace and calm. The property is situated approximately 6 km from the Vaal Mall, with other convenience stores nearby. Overall, the area is neat and well-maintained, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway. 

Why you should book a stay at the Vaal Villa? 

Another thing we appreciated about staying at Vaal Villa was the friendly staff. The caretakers were warm, welcoming and incredibly helpful. Management also communicated with us during our stay and shared activities that we could enjoy as a family. We tried out one of their recommendations, the  Emerald Resort & Casino, where the teens and young adults enjoyed bowling, the kids enjoyed the Magic Company, and we grabbed a meal at Wimpy. It was worth the visit.

The property offers excellent value for money, ranging from R13,000 per night. Vaal Villa is more than just accommodation - it’s an experience. With its well-rounded entertainment offerings, spacious design, thoughtful details, and its location along the serene Vaal River, it is the perfect destination for families and groups seeking comfort, fun, and meaningful time together.