For my family and I, watching the sun rise on a game viewing vehicle, wrapped in a warm blanket, hot water bottles on our laps, knowing that we were about to see the Big Five, was an experience of a lifetime.
Story: Doody Adams (Scroll down for more photos)
Lions Valley Lodge is situated in the heart of the Nambiti Private Game Reserve, near Ladysmith, just three hours from Durban.
The entire team came out to welcome us on our arrival, with warm lemongrass-scented cloths on hand to freshen up. Charles, our host, walked us through the entrance area to the pool deck, where a rim flow pool draws your eye to the spectacular view of the reserve and waterhole, just a few hundred metres away. No fences around the lodge ensure that game roam freely and, during our weekend stay, we spotted rhino, warthog and plenty of buck drinking from the waterhole.
This luxury bush lodge has 10 exclusive suites offering maximum privacy, each decorated to a distinctive theme, from the gloriously romantic Romance Suite to the enchanting Zebra Suite, the funky Spaza Suite and the elegant Bird Suite. We stayed in the Bird Suite with panoramic views of the reserve from a large private deck.
An early wake-up call, followed by coffee and rusks, ensures that guests experience the bush in all its glory. A personalised three-hour game drive is followed by a hearty breakfast, prepared to your personal taste. A second game drive after lunch includes a sunset stop with drink and snacks.
The game rangers are highly knowledgeable about all aspects of the reserve and we left knowing a great deal more about the bush – as well as having enjoyed close encounters with a pride of lions, three elephants and a group of rhinos.
Lions Valley Lodge is a special place managed by Greg and Adri, who offer a personal service whether you’re on a game drive or sitting around the bar. “This is our passion and we love meeting new people, offering the best possible individual service.”
031 539 8238 or 083 289 2716
info@lionsvalley.co.za
www.lionsvalley.co.za