Beauty, beauty, beauty – and more beauty abound at the picturesque Tsogo Sun property – Riverside Sun Hotel. Literally, ON the banks of the Vaal river – there is something to suit everyone at this picturesque hotel.

It’s clear to see why it’s popular with holidaymakers and leisure travellers, as amenities and leisure facilities are relaxed and family-friendly.

Guests are presented with a choice of accommodation in a variety of configurations and boast 169 well-appointed rooms, each equipped with a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay in Vanderbijlpark.

Explore the lush green gardens, wander along the pathways, play a game of life-size chess, catch some rays by the sparkling blue pool, or even sit on a bench on the water’s edge and watch the boats and jet skis zoom by.

If you are feeling slightly more laid back and may want a more comfy seat, ask one of the hotel staff to bring you a squishy bean bag, and while you are at it – place your order from the bar for drinks service down by the river.

Boating your thing? Make sure to book your spot on one of the many cruises that set sail several times daily from Riverside’s jetty – our 45-minute cruise was the perfect start to our stay – and allowed us to not only get some great pictures but also to get a gander at some of the million Rand homes that line the river banks – inspiration indeed! Our captain, Keith, was very informative and knowledgeable about the area and I learnt a number of quite cool facts during our trip – about floods and fires etc – as well as one property that costs a cool R 60 million.

Got kiddies? No worries – the team at The Riverside Sun are super kid friendly with slippery slide, jumping castle and kiddies games down by the river to keep the littles entertained for a wee while. They really take family seriously here and school holidays see loads more additional kids activities and offerings on the go.

Dine in style at the on-site restaurant and be spoilt for choice with the mouth-watering buffet selection. The beautiful round window in the restaurant is reminiscent of a cabin porthole, and the view of the weeping willows and the river is as peaceful as any you will ever find.

Pre-dinner drinks are enjoyed at either Le Bourbon Bar which is next to the restaurant, or on the terrace.

Dinner included a variety of salads and cheeses, with a hot buffet offering a variety of local meat and vegetarian dishes as well as delicious homemade desserts.

The breakfast buffet was extensive and I loved that you could create your very own omelette or scrambled egg creations, accompanied by the usual breakfast goodies, fruits, cereals etc.

Guests staying at the hotel can enjoy dining without having to leave the comfort of their guest rooms, with a full menu of meal options on offer for in-room dining as well – if bubbles in the bath is also your idea of a great night in! (Like mine.)

Specials include R 980 a night for 2 adults including breakfast if you book a long stay with them and their Long Live Summer special is currently running from 15 March – 5 May and is a great deal at R 1500 for a family room.

Find out more about this picturesque hotel right here…