Drakensberg Chocolate Memories

At the Berg Air Lifestyle Centre in Cathkin Park, South Africa, a converted airplane hangar serves as the base for Drakensberg Chocolate Memories. Since 2009, Tammy and Edi have cultivated this space from a small chocolate-making operation into a multifaceted destination. The structure itself, an aircraft hangar on the El Mirador airfield, provides a distinctive backdrop against the imposing Drakensberg mountain range. Inside, the atmosphere is a blend of the industrial and the sweet, with the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans mingling with the rich scent of chocolate. The cafe features a coffee roastery, where beans are roasted on-site, and a chocolate factory where confections are made using fine Belgian couvertures. Patrons can witness the intricate processes of chocolate tempering and panning, which transform cocoa into a variety of treats. Each coffee order includes dark chocolate-coated coffee beans, an addition designed to enhance the coffee's flavor profile. Beyond the cafe, the property offers extensive gardens where children can play with toy airplanes and experience a zipline. This combination of culinary craft and recreational space makes Drakensberg Chocolate Memories a focal point for visitors seeking a sensory experience in the Central Drakensberg region.