Amukela Game Lodge

Amukela Game Lodge is located in the Balule Private Nature Reserve which is incorporated in the Greater Kruger Park. The lodge is only 20 minutes from Hoedspruit and it offers an African bush experience with affordable rates.

Amukela offers four African-style rondawels, accommodating a maximum of eight guests. Each rondawel has a king-size bed with a mosquito net and air-conditioning. Each en-suite bathroom has a toilet, shower and basin. On request, we can make extra beds for children. Breakfast is served in the main building where you will also find the lounge. They have satellite TV with DStv as well as magazines and books.

There is a lovely view of the bush from the terrace and the swimming pool. In the evening, enjoy the boma dinners, weather dependent, under the breathtaking stars. Sit around the campfire and listen to the voices of Africa.

There are a lot of interesting places to visit for a full day or just a couple of hours. This makes the lodge a great place to stay for several days or even weeks. Whether you want to go on your own or do an organized trip, they can assist where possible.

Greet a new day in the bush together with an armed and qualified nature guide. Explore the fascinating nature in Africa by foot at an easy-going pace. Learn about animal tracks and behaviour, trees and bushes with medicinal properties and much more. Take a game drive in an open jeep to search for the animals, accompanied by an experienced field guide. Pre-bookings for activities are essential.

Engela

The Town Clarens

Clarens is a town in the Eastern Free State Highlands, situated 20 km from Golden Gate, 40 km from Bethlehem and on the northernmost point of Lesotho. About 4 hours normal traveling from Durban, 3 hours from Johannesburg, and 3 hours from Bloemfontein.

Clarens is known for its spectacular sandstone mountains and wonderful climate; it is one of the most picturesque spots in S.A. and has even been acclaimed as the best Trout Fishing waters in S.A. It also is a spectacular horse riding country that very few people have discovered.

In 1910 the farm “Leliehoek” was purchased from Mr Hermanus Steyn, and in 1911 Mr Piet de Villiers sold his farm “Naauwpoort” to a company wanting to establish a village here in the mountains. These two farms were divided into erven and sold for the sum of fifty pounds each. In 1912 a commission was appointed to finalize negotiations, and a decision was made to name the village “Clarens” in honour of President Paul Kruger’s influence in the area. This came about in the following ways - During the Basotho war of 1865 - 1866, five “burghers” from the Transvaal were murdered in the Eastern Free State; a direct consequence was the official declaration of war by the Transvaal against the Basotho leader Moshoeshoe. Paul Kruger together with a commando of burghers defeated the Basotho at the Battle of Naauwpoortnek. President Paul Kruger spent his last days as a voluntary exile in the attractive village of Clarens in Switzerland and Clarens was thus a very apt name for the mountainous village here in the Eastern Free State. A monument in honour of the five burghers murdered by the Basotho on  29 September 1865, during the siege of Naauwpoort, was originally erected on the farm Ararat just outside Clarens. This monument was later moved to Clarens and re-sited on the central square.

Clarens is part of the scenic Highlands Route and is surrounded by mountainous splendor. The Rooiberge is the range encompassing the village, whilst further on towards the southeast, the mighty Maluti’s stand proud in shades of purple and blue. All around is the sandstone cliffs with their multi-coloured layers - these horizontal strata is a unique geological feature of the area, and is known as the Clarens formation. Many homes in the Clarens Valley are made from Clarens Sandstone.

The village has become known as the “Jewel of the Free State” - rich in beauty, with an aura of peace and tranquility. Clarens is endowed with more trees than most other Free State towns - the fresh, light green willows and colorful blossoms of the many fruit trees are an unforgettable sight in spring time; whilst the magnificent autumn shades of the Lombard poplars attract artists, photographers and nature lovers. The town is known for the many Art and Craft shops which offer the visitor a wide range of curios and original artwork. Another feature which adds to the picturesque atmosphere of the village is the many sandstone buildings. The popular Golden Gate National Park is located in the near vicinity of Clarens, and the area attracts many visitors.

Engela

Baluleni Safari Lodge

This tranquil and peaceful Lodge on the shores of the Olifants River, in the 40 000 hectare Balule Nature Reserve inside the greater Kruger National Park, offers the splendour of the natural Africa Bush with breath-taking sunsets, wildlife which includes the Big 5, bird watching, safaris, bush walks, boma-dinners under the stars.

Enjoy a unique African Safari experience, go on guided open vehicle safaris, learn about the wilderness on a bush walk, listen to the sounds of the African Bush while dining under the stars, or simply relax at the Lodge by the pool side. 

The Lodge offers secluded and comfortable accommodation in five air-conditioned en-suite thatched chalets, two luxury en-suite tents with ceiling fans, and one air-conditioned en-suite thatched honeymoon cottage with full breakfast, high tea and dinners. These are served at a licensed dining/bar area or around the fire in the boma under the African skies. 

At the Baluleni Safari Lodge facilities include a licensed Dining/bar area and boma, full breakfasts and three course dinners are generally served in the dining area or outside on the patio. However, guests mostly prefer to enjoy a three course dinner under the stars around the fire in the boma. Guests enjoy sun downers on the patio or sharing a drink in the lounge while watching adventure wildlife DVD's. Early coffee and home-made rusks are available for guests at the accommodation. High tea with savories, snacks and cakes are served at the dining area. Guests also enjoy the swimming pool while relaxing with a cold drink in the shade. 

At the reception guests can arrange and depart for their three hour safaris in an open vehicle, an early morning Bush walk, a day tour in the Kruger National Park and other tours to different venues like Moholoholo, Cheetah Project, Panorama Route. 

The curio shop at reception offers a variety of the most sought after products made by local artists as well as signed copies of Elke's famous oil paintings and drawings. Guests also have access to internet and cell phone signal at reception.

Free secure parking and laundry services are available to guests.

Engela

Pumzika Game Farm and Eco-Estate - Thabazimbi

Pumzika Game Farm and Eco-Estate near Thabazimbi in the North-West Province offer majestic mountainous views from the breathtaking grasslands and bush-veld.

Amenities and leisure activities include hiking, swimming in the swimming pool or the dam, playing pool, braaiing in the spacious lapa or enjoying a sun downer at the mountain deck.

The lodge and chalets are first class, comfortable, and well furnished. Bedding is provided, but not towels and toiletries. The lounge has a TV with DStv and there is a fully equipped kitchen.

Game drives can be arranged on request. The lodge is only 15 km from Thabazimbi for groceries and other shopping.

Engela

Cedar Garden Bed and Breakfast

Cedar Garden is an upmarket and spacious Bed and Breakfast establishment, set in a large, tranquil garden.

It is centrally situated and this self catering establishment is the perfect base from which to explore the Southern Drakensberg - area.

Enjoy the heart of South Africa's most scenic dairy farming area with cool, snowy winters or the sunny, temperate days of summer, spectacular autumn colors and blossoms in spring.

The hustle and bustle of city life will quickly be forgotten as you make yourselves at home in a picturesque setting. Cedar Garden is an easy two and a half hours drive from Durban with tar all the way.

You are invited to come and enjoy this stately home and be rejuvenated by this magnificent countryside.

Engela

Hartbeespoort

The village of Hartbeespoort is situated on the shores of the popular Hartbeespoort Dam - on the Crocodile River and at the base of the majestic Magaliesberg mountain range. The dam, with a shoreline of almost 56km, is a popular weekend retreat offering a host of water related activities such as water-skiing, jet-skiing, windsurfing and parasailing. The rolling foothills and scenic surroundings are also perfect for other outdoor activities such as hiking or taking a leisurely meander along the arts and crafts route.

Visitors can also enjoy spectacular views from a vantage point reached by cable car, and may be interested in paying a visit to the Hartbeespoort Aquarium which houses an extensive collection of indigenous and exotic fish.

Hartbeespoort is en-route to the popular Lost City, the Pilanesberg National Park as well as the Madikwe Game Reserve.

Engela

The First Prisoners of Robben Island

Robben Island is one of the most renowned islands in the world.

But do you know who the first prisoners of this island were?

It was Harry the Strandloper (“Beach Comber”) and his tribe. He was the chief of a KhoiKhoi tribe called the Goringhaicona, who were an outcast group that lived in Table Bay and were despised by other KhoiKhoi groups for their scavenging. Even Harry was a cunning man and quickly amassed herds of cattle and sheep.

Harry was picked up by an English ship for a joy ride to Batavia. During the trip he learnt the English language and when he returned to the Cape became the postmaster for the passing ships. Sailors would drop off letters which he would then pass on to other ships.

When Jan Van Riebeeck came to the Cape in 1652, Harry moved back to the mainland to help establish trade between the KhoiKhoi and the Dutch. Because he could speak English, he was made an interpreter.

The KhoiKhoi would trade livestock with the Dutch in exchange for tobacco and alcohol. One day the Dutch swindled them in a deal and in revenge Harry and a few other KhoiKhoi men stole from the Dutch. As punishment, Van Riebeek banished them to Robben Island, making them the first prisoners on Robben Island. After more than a year on the island Harry managed to escape back to the mainland in a leaking boat, and after more dust had settled he was accepted back for his job as interpreter.

Engela

Alexandria Hiking Trail

The Alexandria Hiking Trail is situated in the Woody Cape section of the Addo Elephant National Park, departing from the offices near Alexandria. The length is approximately 36 km which is a two day circular route of which the first day is 19.5km and the second day is 16.5 km. This is ideal for those who want a challenging walk along the coastline. Hikers carry their own provisions and the hike is not guided.

Early morning offers hikers an opportunity to investigate the signs of animals, such as jackals, duikers and the endemic hairy-footed gerbil, left on the dunes from the previous night. Tall posts guide hikers through the shifting dune fields.

By night you can listen for the haunting calls of the rare tree dassie and awake to a chorus of birds in flitting through the forest canopy. Look out for trumpeter hornbills, ground hornbills, Knysna turaco, tree dassies and bushbuck.

Keys for the overnight huts are collected at the park offices near Alexandria. Fees can be paid at Matyholweni rest camp or at the Addo main camp reception. At the Woody Cape hut, no fires are allowed and the hikers must carry their own cookers. Water at the Woody Cape hut is only for drinking and cooking as the hut relies entirely on rainwater. At least one or more of the hiking group should be able to read a map and compass, and to wear a brightly coloured jacket that can be seen from the air if a search and rescue is launched. The Langebos huts are available to hikers on the two-day Alexandria Hiking Trail, as well as those simply wanting an overnight stay in the forest. The 7km Dassie Day Trail begins at the huts and the breath-taking Woody Cape coastline of the Park is a short drive and walk away.

Engela

Monchique Guest House - Muldersdrift Gauteng

Monchique Guest House is a luxurious 4 star award winning country retreat that offers affordable holiday, wedding and business accommodation. They pride themselves on top-class amenities and service delivered with a special personal touch. The accent is on luxury, hospitality and friendliness – which you will experience from the moment you arrive.

All functions are welcome at Monchique! From intimate weddings to conferences, brainstorming sessions, birthday parties, baby showers, yearend events and farewell dinners. No function is too small.

They are minutes from the city, yet miles away in terms of the serene tranquillity of their rural surroundings. You’ll find us in Muldersdrift - nestled on the edge of the Cradle of Mankind, a world heritage site. Monchique are readily accessible by well-established roads, only about 40 minutes from Sandton and Pretoria. Lanseria International Airport is also nearby while the popular Cradlestone Mall and Silverstar Casino, are a mere 10 minutes away. Fourways shopping mall and Monte Casino being less than 20 minutes away.

Are you looking for a venue to host your corporate function, yearend function, product launch, baby shower, birthday party or anniversary?  Let Monchique take care of all your needs with our excellent service and attention to detail, so that you get to relax and enjoy your special occasion.

The Bridge - WeddingVenue

Engela

The Best Wedding Venue in South Africa!

My daughter Cindy and my new son-in-law Christie got married on 29 May 2015 at The Bridge and what unforgettable wedding at the most beautiful wedding venue it was!

In my time I have attended more than enough weddings and without being biased as it was my daughter’s wedding, I have to state openly that it was the best wedding ever and here I have to give The Bridge credit because it supplemented the occasion.

The Bridge is an old converted farmhouse set in tranquil gardens beside the banks of the Wilgespruit. The river runs over the low level bridge that takes you to indigenous gardens where willow and large stinkwood trees, amongst others, surround fountains, well maintained lawns and beautiful flower beds.

The Bridge in Muldersdrift is the ideal setting for celebrations of all kinds and is conveniently situated only 20 minutes from Randburg and Fourways and approximately 35 minutes from Pretoria.

The well-planned and appetizing menus are prepared and presented by a very talented and highly trained chef, who working alongside with a dedicated team has made The Bridge famous for its high quality food and professional service. On offer are both plated and buffet menu options - my daughter opted for the buffet menu and it was delectable!!

At The Bridge they are dedicated and passionate about ensuring your day is everything you hoped for. Your special occasion will be handled with great care and professionalism. There are no hidden charges or hidden costs for the venue. Should you wish, the can assist you with your floristry, 

musical and wedding cake requirements. All of these are optional additional services that they offer.

For weddings they have a country chapel that comes complete with drapes, chair covers, fairy lights, lectern, registry table, red carpet, two flower stands and tie back sashes down the aisle.

You may prefer a romantic gazebo, situated on the bank of the river for your wedding ceremony that you can draped and decorate with fresh flowers. They provide chair covers, lectern, registry table, red carpet and tieback sashes down the aisle - although it is winter the weather is very mild at Muldersdrift and therefore my daughter went for the gazebo.

As a special touch, they have a small row-boat that can be used to bring the bride to the wedding service which is a very unique way of arriving. The use of the chapel, gazebo and boat is included in your fee.

At this point in time they do not have any sleep-over facilities but they are busy with it. For the mean time there are enough hotels and guest houses in the area and my husband and I slept over at the Monchique Guest House about 3 km from The Bridge.

Without reservation, and unconditional I recommend TheBridge for your wedding!!

Engela de Villiers

Jim Reeves and South Africa

Jim Reeves was one of the best of the "Nashville Sound" style country and western singers. His fame was widespread, not only in the USA, but also in Britain, India, Scandinavia and South Africa. After his success he made successful tours of the U.S., Scandinavia and South Africa, where he starred in a film, Kimberley Jim (1963) (released in the U.S. in 1965) and recorded songs in the local Afrikaans language. 

Jim was well known as the singer with the velvet voice and the gentlemanly manner. Jim had been planning more tours and television appearances at the time his Beechcraft Debonair aircraft went down in bad weather on July 31, 1964, in Hendersonville, Tennessee, near Nashville - taking the lives of Jim and his business manager. Jim's widow, Mary Reeves, kept many of the recordings unreleased after his death in backlog and had them released, little by little over the years, to great success - so much so that younger executives in the record business had to be reminded that Jim has been gone for over 35 years! 

He even had an album reach Gold status in Denmark in 1999! It is a source of great frustration to Jim's fans and family that his great catalog of music does not get equal airplay today in the U.S. compared with other artists who have gone on such as Patsy Cline. But Jim's legacy still lives on, as one of the greatest voices in recorded music, country or otherwise.

Here he sings a South African folk song in Afrikaans. Enjoy!