BY Mabuyane Mabuza
Many of you may be aware that I wear a few hats, including that of a farmer. The South African grain season starts in September, for land preparation and putting seeds in the ground can go on until the end of February, with post-planting activities. By the end of this intense season, we are worn out from the harsh South African summer sun and challenges such as machinery breakdowns, and are eager for a quick escape. The pick was easy, Hoedspruit! The greater Hoedspruit region is arguably one of the most beautiful areas in South Africa. Once the selection had been made, we needed to find a place that could offer the rest and quiet we longed for. Bushriver Lodge stood out of the four places we chose.
Driving there
We booked a mid-week getaway (I personally love those). We left Pretoria on Tuesday morning and decided to take the longer route via Mbombela, and the plan was to drive back via Tzaneen – a shorter yet still exciting route.
The Nissan X-Trail was an easy pick for this trip. It offered ample boot space for our luggage. It also comes with the necessary tech for a road trip such as Bluetooth connectivity. We took comfort in its capabilities, knowing that if we encountered any challenging road conditions, the X-Trail would be up to the task.
It was such a relief to see the N4 East towards Middelburg in good shape and travelling on it did not cause any anxieties. There was little traffic except for trucks that seemed to have increased since that last time I drove on this road.
We stopped for breakfast at Alzu Petroport, outside Middelburg, where the good old Spur saved the day. We rejoined the N4 after refueling our tank.
The only stretch of road that was challenging was through Bushbuckridge where ducking livestock, pedestrians, and other vehicles seemed to be a norm.
Set the Scene
Hoedspruit is home to some of Southern Africa’s majestic wildlife life, including the big five. It is a hidden gem that promises a heavenly escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The routes wind through picturesque landscapes, offering glimpses of South Africa’s natural beauty at every turn.
We reached our destination early evening, slower-paced driving, stopping and stretching, grabbing snacks.
As you arrive at Bushriver Lodge, you are welcomed with warmth and hospitality that set the tone for a memorable stay. The lodge caters to every kind of getaway, whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a fun-filled family vacation, or an exciting adventure with friends. The facilities are designed to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay for all.
There is a variety of activities for all ages, these include game drives and river cruises.
Accommodation
This exclusive lodge boasts a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and serenity along the tranquil banks of the Olifants River, making it a perfect sanctuary for those seeking a unique and unforgettable escape. As you step foot into Bushriver Lodge, you are greeted by the soothing sounds of the river meandering lazily, offering a sense of peace. The lodge’s architecture seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, allowing guests to feel truly immersed in the beauty of the wilderness. The facilities at Bushriver Lodge are designed to cater to every need and desire of its guests. From the pool where guests can relax and soak in the breathtaking views, to the open-air deck where stories are shared under the vast African sky. Every corner of the lodge exudes charm and elegance.
Bushriver Lodge offers intimate chalets as well as spacious accommodations with breathtaking views, perfect for unwinding in the tranquillity of nature.
The rooms at Bushriver Lodge are a haven of comfort, each thoughtfully designed to provide a serene retreat after a day of adventure. Spacious and beautifully appointed, the rooms offer panoramic views of the river and the surrounding bush, allowing guests to feel fully immersed in the natural beauty that surrounds them.
I loved the design of our suite. The bed was centered between a large window facing the river and a shower and large stone jacuzzi style bathtub to the left. The toilet and basin were tucked away in a stand-alone cubicle in the entrance room as you enter the front door.
What truly sets Bushriver Lodge apart from the typical self-catering hotels in the area is its personalised service and attention to detail. The kitchen, dining, and bar areas are shared spaces and are big enough to accommodate four suites, giving guests time to mingle and make friends. We had the lodge to ourselves – the joys of visiting midweek during the off-season.
Whether you seek adventure in the wild or simply wish to unwind and reconnect with nature, Bushriver Lodge offers a haven of peace and tranquillity that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.
Dining
Being in a self-catering setup, we prepared our meals, especially breakfast. We went out to Xplore the restaurant scene for lunch and dinner and found limited options.
We tried the Creek and Hat, a beautiful eatery situated on the main road of Hoedspruit town. Though the food was good, the service itself was way below par. Not only were the serving staff slow in attending to us (customers), but they were also condescending in their approach. For such a beautiful establishment, this experience left us disappointed and wondering if the problem was a lack of training. However, the area has many more eateries to discover.
Local attractions
Visitors of Hoedspruit have a plethora of activities to choose from, each offering a unique experience in the heart of the African bush. Xplore the nearby wildlife reserves on guided safaris, embark on thrilling bushwalks, hot air ballooning, boat tours or simply relax by the pool and soak in the serenity of the surroundings.
The lodge also offers cultural experiences, such as visits to local villages, providing a deeper understanding of the rich heritage of the region. We took an hour-long drive to experience the Blyde River Canyon right up to the viewing point, The Three Rondavels.
Budget
Off-season: expect to pay between R1700 and R2000 per night per person sharing. Factor in the food for the duration of your stay plus activities you might want to do. Game drives do not come cheap, we were quoted around R4000 for one.
Prepare your budget properly before booking, from accommodation, fuel, toll gates, dining, and other activities. It is safe to say put aside at least R12 000 for a good mid-week escape. You might need to up the budget during the peak season months.
Bushriver Lodge in Hoedspruit promised and delivered an unforgettable experience that rejuvenated our souls and created memories we will cherish for a lifetime.
