Coming of Age
What sets this luxury lodge apart from all others is
its spectacular location on the edge of a vast valley in Hluhluwe Game Reserve
in KwaZulu-Natal. The architecture makes the most of this setting, with a
dramatic, full-height glass front and wooden deck which reaches out into the
view. From this vantage point, you can watch the light change as the sun rises
and sets, while witnessing animals move silently below, undisturbed and protected
in a pristine natural habitat.
The main lodge is upmarket, with snazzy furnishings
and tasteful local fabrics. Lighting has been used to great effect to showcase
a wall-length mural of wildlife. Throughout the lodge, movement has been
created by photographic wall murals and I have to remind myself to close my
mouth as each turn reveals a new breath-taking scene. The long pool is framed
on one side with bright aloes and on the other side with nothing but open
valley views.
This new lodge represents a coming of age for South
African hospitality. Offering the best that local architecture, photography, décor,
food and natural wildlife, the lodge is a celebration of all that this unique
corner of the globe offers its privileged guests. Community-owned, the
professionalism, warmth and pride of the staff marks our point in history as we
transform into a developed nation. Lodge manager Sphamandla Shabalala says “It
is Isibindi’s commitment to staff development that attracted me to take up the
position at this lodge. I love taking staff from a basic level and growing them
into competent professionals” he explains. “It is so rewarding to see people
grow – it’s such a sense of achievement.”
Accommodation experience:
Despite the many amazing features of this lodge, I am
most excited about waking up to this gorgeous face – a giant photograph of a
warthog. I set my alarm early, even earlier than necessary to catch the morning
game drive. I smile as I wake and greet my newfound best bud. I sit in bed with
my coffee and notice new modern features of my suite which I had not seen the
night before. I marvel as the sky turns pink, then pale blue, then ochre and I feel
intensely proud to be a South African on this gentle and beautiful dawn.
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