Since 1849, Hebron Haven has been welcoming guests to a space that feels easy, familiar, and unhurried. From comfortable accommodation and well-loved meals to community gatherings and quiet moments, everything here is designed to make you feel at ease from the moment you arrive.
Set just off the old R103 on the road to Dargle, Hebron Haven has long been a natural stopping place in the Lions River area. With its sweeping gardens, mature trees, and peaceful setting, it has welcomed travellers for generations — first as a simple homestead, and later as a place of rest for weary journeys north.
The story of Hebron Haven begins on 25 September 1849, when Carl Preller became the first owner of the property. As part of a British colonial programme encouraging settlement in remote regions, he was granted 6,165 acres stretching across what is now Midmar, Lions River, and up into the Dargle.
Preller lived a colourful life — and his death in 1870 sparked a Midlands legend.
It was said he had two idle sons, and to prevent them from squandering his wealth, he supposedly buried chests of gold somewhere on the property. He died without revealing the location.
For decades, locals whispered of Preller’s hidden treasure.
And then… when construction began on the tar road to Dargle, a box of gold coins was unearthed, giving new life to the tale.
Some still say Carl Preller’s spirit roams Hebron Haven — not to haunt, but to watch over his land.
Hebron lay exactly one day’s journey from Pietermaritzburg, making it a natural stopover for:
In those days, travellers camped beside their wagons while the original homestead stood as the only shelter on the property. The rutted wagon tracks across the uMngeni could still be seen until the great floods of 1887, which washed them away.
Eventually, legend says Preller sold the farm to Mr. Boschoff — for a bottle of whisky.
Around 1920, the property passed to Colonel Gardener, whose daughter documented Hebron Haven’s early expansions through rare photographs. These show:
During World War II, Hebron Haven served the community by hosting three Italian POWs, who helped construct several of the buildings that still stand.
Ownership passed through several families, each adding their mark:
Through these decades, Hebron Haven established itself as a beloved Midlands landmark — a warm, familiar spot for travellers, holiday families, horseback riders, locals, and visiting sports teams.
The atmospheric pub, once known as The King & Riddle, became a favourite watering hole for the community.
Today — Under the Stewardship of Jabu Schoeman & Shaun & Michael Corlett
The modern chapter of Hebron Haven is defined by revival, restoration, and respect for heritage.
Under the stewardship of Jabu Schoeman and Shaun & Michael Corlett, the hotel has undergone significant renovations while preserving its soul:
Rooms tastefully restored with modern comforts
The historic atmosphere has been honoured — not replaced.
Hebron Haven today balances 19th-century heritage with 21st-century hospitality.
The accommodation offering now includes:
The stables themselves are part of the hotel’s early history — once simple rest-stops for travellers and livestock, now cosy, character-filled rooms.
Hebron’s heritage charm makes it a natural choice for:
The hotel’s layout — fireplaces, lawns, dining rooms, lounges, and patios — creates the perfect canvas for gatherings.
Traditions That Continue Today
Hebron Haven remains exactly what it has always been:
Whether you’re planning a stay, joining us for a meal, or stopping by for one of our events, Hebron Haven is ready to welcome you.
Feel free to contact & reach us !
