‘No really, what else is there for people do around here?’ asked a weekend guest at Shibula. We’d been on a morning game drive, feasted on a long, lazy breakfast and the rest of the guests were contemplating a pre-massage nap or jacuzzi.
‘Nothing!’ the answer was chimed in unison.
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Not that this is exactly true, while rest and contemplation are easy to attain in this peaceful setting, nature lovers will find plenty to keep themselves occupied. The lodge on Welgevonden Private Game Reserve in Limpopo is tucked into the side of scenic cliffs that gleam rusty reds and ochres in the morning and evening light.
The reserve boasts more than 350 species of birds found on the 33 000 ha reserve. Aside from the Big Five, the morning and evening game drives offer the opportunity to spot a large variety of antelope and other species, including aardvark, brown hyena, hippo, leopard, cheetah and bush pig. There are also rock-art paintings to explore and the night skies in this unpolluted pocket are clear and filled with stars.
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The remaining hours disappear too quickly with all the relaxing there is to do. Take a dip in the main pool, which overlooks a river or, if you want to be alone, opt for a suite that has its own jacuzzi or solar-heated plunge pool. The spa offers a range of mas-sages and therapies in couples and individual treat-ment rooms.
And then of course there are the meals, served either in the dining area, on the terrace or in the boma. As with all five-star lodges it’s suffice to say that you’re bound to pack on a few pounds after a long weekend, especially if you get sidetracked by the carefully stocked wine cellar.
It’s a gorgeously romantic spot that’s an easy three hour drive from Johannesburg, making Shibula an easy romantic break for couples or honeymooners. That’s not to say that children aren’t welcome, but it might be a tad too quiet for boisterous youngsters.
Rates start at R3 100 a person a night for the luxury rooms and R3 800 a night for the suites. Two game drives and all meals are included in the price. Tel 021-882-8206, cell 082-788-5100, email [email protected], www.shibulalodge.co.za.
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