BY Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
Waterberg region, Limpopo
The province of Limpopo is South Africa’s hidden treasure. Known as Africa’s Eden, a symbolism of the very beginning of life, it is where life continues at its own pace and nature shows off. I took a small bite at the Waterberg region that lies south-west of the province, and discovered the majestic Euphoria Golf and Lifestyle Estate.
The venue
The word euphoria evokes feelings of joy, delight, intense happiness, exhilaration and even unadulterated pleasure. And these are some of the emotions you experience at varying degrees when you experience this resort. Set in the majestic Waterberg Mountains, outside the quaint town of Mookgopong, Euphoria is a short two hours drive from Pretoria and easily accessible from the N1 freeway. While it is in game and adventure country, nothing prepares you for the spectacular entrance to the property.
The property is spectacular yet tranquil, like the Garden of Eden. It has vast open spaces, imposing mountains, trees and greenery. Driving from the main entrance to the reception, I was greeted by breath taking natural beauty while a herd of ostriches were the self-appointed welcoming party. At reception, the warm Limpopo welcome was extended by friendly staff who lit up the entrance to the clubhouse with their friendly smiles. Immediately, I knew it was going to be a great stay. I immediately relaxed and prepared to recharge my mind, body and soul.
Hotel
There are different types of accommodation on offer for different tastes and budgets. These range from a self-catering 6-bedroom holiday home to fully-serviced hotel rooms. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with a full bathroom that has a tub and a walk-in shower. However, I found both bedrooms and common spaces to be a tad tired and felt they could do benefit from updates and some of décor touch-ups. Fortunately there is enough to do outside the room and the emphasis is on being one with nature. I spent a bit of time outside in the veranda watching birds chirp as they went about their business.
Food
There are multiple restaurants to choose from during your stay, including an option for a romantic Boma dinner around the fire, under the stars. There have been mixed reviews about the food, but generally gets a nod from tourists. However, being at the resort as part of a group we had our meals in the conference centre. The food was surprisingly mouthwatering and the portions substantial. All three of the courses served for dinner were mouthwatering from the snails that made up the first course to the melt-in-your mouth steak served on a bed of fresh vegetables and the malva pudding with a twist. Kudos to the chef and the waiting staff was fully attentive, ensuring that the drinks were flowing. The breakfast spread was also quite impressive and we were spoilt for choice.
Activities
There is lots to do on this 760-hectare nature reserve, you almost have to put together an instant itinerary to ensure that you don’t miss out on the adventure. If its animals you wish to see, there is no short supply. You can spot kudu, impala, waterbuck, bush buck, blesbuck and other small bucks on the fairways as you take leisurely strolls or explore on a buggy. The estate is also famous for its exceptional birdlife with up to 250 species that can be spotted by keen birdwatchers.
This is a golfer’s heaven with an 18-hole signature course in the African bushveld. Guest are able to book guided nature drives in open vehicles, as well as night drives on the golf course. Hiking trails, quad bike trails and cycling is also available in the Nature Reserve. There is also a spa for when you need some special pampering and remove all signs of stress.
Children and the young at heart will completely fall in-love with the water park. It has slides and pools for both adults and kids, keeping them entertained for hours. If you prefer to watch from the sidelines while fun is had, you can enjoy cocktails and keep them coming.
Cable car
This lifestyle estate has its own cableway which links the clubhouse to the mountain top restaurant aptly named Ntshonalanga and is perfect for watching the sunset while enjoying breathtaking views. Guests are treated to a spectacular ride with breath taking views, an experience on its own. Once at the top, you can enjoy great canapés and cocktails while watching the sunset.
All is all, this is a great resort for the whole family and boast a mix of carefully curated experiences that will appeal to different age groups. At Euphoria, happiness is a four-letter word.
