Paradise has a contender to the title… Thonga Beach Lodge, right here on the KZN North Coast. Claire Veitch investigates.
A short distance from Hluhluwe, through rolling timber plantations and bushveld, you’ll arrive at an unassuming sign, “Coastal cashew factory”. This is where you can safely leave your car – and all those accumulated urban stresses that insidiously creep into our lives. However, if you happen to be driving a 4×4, the route is clearly marked through the grassy dunes and forest.
The real journey begins with a scenic drive through some of the highest dune forests on the east coast. Your driver and guide will fill you in on interesting facts on the surrounding vegetation, birds and rich local culture. As you near your destination, discreetly positioned signposts invite you to clear the mind, nourish the body and soothe the soul – a fitting welcome to paradise!
Thonga Beach Lodge offers a natural sanctuary from city life, a place of pristine beauty that will revive the weary, and inspire those who are feeling more adventurous. A warm welcome awaits you from management and friendly staff, before being led through the wooden walkways to your accommodation.
Surrounding beauty
Subtly designed to blend in with the surrounding beauty, each suite opens on to a private balcony with views of the Indian Ocean, unspoilt beaches or magnificent indigenous trees. Each room is completely private and luxuriously appointed, with absolute attention to detail. Crisp white linen, deep stone baths, candles and aromatherapy salts, together with accents of local Thonga-inspired decor all add to the ambience.
Dining is a highlight. Each meal offers mouthwatering choices – there is no pretentiousness here at all – the food is excellent, as is the service. There can be few finer ways to end your day than dining “al fresco” on a candlelit deck under ancient Milkwood trees. For very romantic settings, and weather permitting, management will even set a dinner table for you right on the beach!
After dinner, an amble across to the “Robinson Crusoe” bar is a must. This is truly a drinking hole that gives a whole new meaning to island style.
Don’t be lulled into a sense that Thonga Beach Lodge is all about decadent relaxation, great food and indulgence! There are a number of activities on offer. From snorkelling at low tide to open water “sea-faris”, where one can swim freely with whale sharks – the experience is both exhilarating and unforgettable. Dive courses are offered, and all equipment is provided and overseen by experts.
Another must is a sundowner drive to Lake Sibaya, where you can spot hippos, crocs and amazing birdlife, while sipping on an ice-cold G&T. The perfect way to wind down after an active day.
Unfortunately we were just too early for the turtle tracking season…and as this is an experience that’s definitely on my bucket list…a return journey to Thonga Beach Lodge is already planned.
Tel: 035 474 1473; Fax: 035 474 1490; www.isibindiafrica.co.za; res@isibindi.co.za
Or contact Caroline Hall at Unashamed Africa: Tel: 084 55 11121.