Ashbourne Country Escape: A Vision Brought to Life in the Sabie Valley

There are places in the world that quietly claim a part of the heart—and Ashbourne Country Escape, nestled in the Sabie Valley outside Hazyview, is undeniably one of them. For author Michelle Meyjes, it has become a place of deep personal connection after countless visits over two decades. Now, she shares this extraordinary destination with the world.

Set between the raw, untamed beauty of the Kruger National Park and the awe-inspiring Panorama Route, Ashbourne is far more than just a luxurious country lodge. It is the embodiment of a dream, brought to life by two remarkable individuals: Rob and Dawne Topham.

A Dream That Seemed Impossible

Years ago, Rob and Dawne stood on a rugged mountainside plot—no electricity, no water, just the silence of the bushveld and the wild slope of possibility. At first glance, it seemed like an impossible vision. Yet, two decades later, Ashbourne Country Escape stands proudly: a breathtaking, improbable reality, forged through resilience, creativity, and a belief in what could be. Some might call it crazy—but it is a beautiful kind of crazy.

The Dynamic Duo Behind the Dream

Rob and Dawne Topham’s journey is as inspiring as Ashbourne itself. Originally from Pietermaritzburg and later based in the Cape, they eventually moved to Mpumalanga to farm citrus. Their love for the Lowveld landscape tugged at them, leading to a pivotal decision to downscale from farming—and upsize their dreams.

Upon discovering a wild and untouched piece of mountainside land, they knew they had found something special. Rob, the tireless entrepreneur and problem-solver, and Dawne, the designer with an intuitive creative eye, combined their strengths to build Ashbourne. Together, they became a true dynamic duo—perfectly balanced in vision and execution.

Building With Nature, Not Against It

Ashbourne is not a place imposed on nature; it is a place in harmony with it. Rather than flattening the land, Rob and Dawne embraced its natural contours, allowing the architecture to flow with the terrain. The Drakensberg escarpment stretches dramatically in the distance, while the lodge itself nestles into the surrounding bush and rock, as though it has always belonged there.

Materials were sourced directly from the land—rocks used to clad exterior walls, thick stone structures with deep-set windows, anchoring the lodge in authenticity and timelessness. In just eighteen months, they transformed a raw piece of land into a warm, farmhouse-inspired retreat, full of intimacy and elegance.

Dawne’s Design Philosophy

Dawne Topham, whose design work graces some of South Africa’s most iconic lodges, infused Ashbourne with her unique style. Her philosophy favours contrast, surprise, and the natural beauty of imperfection. At Ashbourne, nothing is sterile or overdesigned—each room is layered, textured, and quietly evocative of Africa. It’s a home that breathes and evolves.

The lodge is intentionally discreet, designed to disappear into its surroundings. Dawne’s artistic flair is also on proud display—her own paintings add a personal and creative touch to each room. Outside, the garden reflects the couple’s deep appreciation for flora and birdlife. Dawne, ever the nurturer, is often seen in the garden pruning and planting—another form of her artistry.

A Place to Belong

At its core, Ashbourne Country Escape is not about opulence—it’s about belonging. It’s a sanctuary where guests feel an immediate sense of calm, connection, and homecoming. Perfectly situated for day trips to Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, and the Panorama Route, Ashbourne offers both tranquillity and adventure.

What Rob and Dawne have created is not just a retreat—it is a living story that continues to grow with each guest who walks through its doors. Their legacy is not only Ashbourne, but also the reminder that dreams—no matter how improbable—can become reality, built one stone at a time.

Celebrating the African Spirit

To the author, Rob and Dawne Topham embody the true African spirit: a blend of resilience, creativity, and heartfelt connection to the land. They are not just lodge owners—they are storytellers, artists, and contributors to South Africa’s rich and diverse heritage.

Some places leave an imprint long after the visit ends. Ashbourne Country Escape is one of those rare gems—a love story between land and people, 20 years in the making.

The lodge’s stellar ratings on Booking.com and TripAdvisor are a testament to its quiet excellence and enduring charm.

For further information, please contact:

Ashbourne Country Escape
Rob Topham
📞 +27 (0)64 902 8440 (Rob)
📞 +27 (0)82 367 3627 (Office)
dtopham@mweb.co.za
www.ashbournescape.co.za
Instagram: @ashbournehazyview