Friday, March 4, 2011

Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary

Monkeyland is the world’s first free roaming multi-specie primate sanctuary. Monkeyland is unique in that the sanctuary caters for several species of primate, and they are not caged, they are free to move about the forest, and do so in harmony.


Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary is a modern primate sanctuary established in a pristine natural high canopy forest which is well suited to those primates fortunate enough to live there. Perhaps the most significant aspect of the sanctuary is that it is both a multi specie and free-roaming facility. Monkeyland which is only three years old is totally self-sustaining from the revenue it derives from tourism, this revenue is generated by taking visitors out on monkey safaris, and these safaris are conducted by enthusiastic rangers. The safaris which are fun and exciting, are also educational and generally result in our guests leaving the sanctuary with a whole new focus on the primates of the world and the problems they are facing.


Monkeyland has through the establishment of the Touch a Monkeys Heart Foundation; a non-profit organisation or as they are better known in South Africa, a Section 21 Company, secured the future of all the primates which reach Monkeyland.


Over and above being the sole custodian of all the primates at Monkeyland, The Foundation is also responsible for the development and implementation of The Eden Syndrome, which is the process used at Monkeyland to prepare previously caged primates for their eventual release into the sanctuary.
Possibly the important aspect emanating from the existence of the sanctuary, is that Monkeyland is a living example that these wonderful creatures can be kept in an almost wild state. From this must surely come the realisation that re-introducing primates to their habitats of origin from this wilder state must stand a far greater chance of success as a result.

Lunch in the lively forest of Monkeyland is a unique experience. It is the only eating spot in the world where you can actually sip your coffee while you watch a large variety of primates, from all over the world, playing - enjoying their new-found freedom.


Entrance to Monkeyland is free, however there is a fee for the guided safaris. Note that these guided safaris are open ended which means that one may go on as many safaris as you wish, in a given day, having only paid for the first excursion. A visit to Monkeyland is a must for every local resident of, and visitor to The Garden Route. So swing by visit this awesome monkey kingdom.

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Birds of Eden Bird Sanctuary

The world’s largest single span aviary, just a few kilometres east of Plettenberg Bay in the Garden Route, where birds are free to fly free provides an incredible experience for those who visit, and a wonderful way of life for over 2000 previously caged birds.


The completely unique venture of Birds of Eden is an enormous two hectare dome spanning a gorge filled with verdant, indigenous forest. Within it are some 100 species of incredible African birds, a few of them endangered that provide anyone entering the dome with a literal experience of paradise. There are 1.2 kilometres of wooden walkway to lead you through the beautiful place (unlike Monkey Valley, you don’t need a guide to take you through the refuge), over a river and behind a waterfall (part of the sanctuary’s mysterious ruin). Birds of Eden’s dome emulates thunder storms, complete with renditions of claps of thunder and short cloudbursts from the irrigation system in the dome structure.


The same group of people who created Monkeyland, the popular primate sanctuary that is just next door to Birds of Eden making a two-in-one day trip effortless, were behind the incredible project that provides a safe haven not only for birds and miniature monkeys, but for rehabilitated pet birds too.


But the overwhelming experience of being in the wild with hundreds of birds as they swoop, fly and call around you is what Birds of Eden is essentially about.


The park has seven dams, the largest of which has a floating bridge with seating at which you can order light meals; a 200-seater amphitheatre and a breath-taking canopy walk.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Forever Resorts Mount Sheba

Forever Resorts Mount Sheba is situated in Mpumalanga, 50km from Lydenburg and around the corner from the legendary town of Pilgrim’s Rest. A truly romantic setting in the heart of a surrounding forest creates a magical atmosphere. Excellent service supports the superb four star cuisine and sure to turn any dream day into a fairy tale experience.


Well-appointed rooms, gourmet meals and log fires give a magical feel to Mount Sheba. Walks in the forest are magical, with the rare Samango monkey and rare bird calls around you.


With private patios and panoramic views, the beauty of the surroundings can be enjoyed from the comfort of your room. Indigenous forest walking trails, forest picnics, trout fishing, mountain biking.


Activities available on the property are trout fishing, a game of tennis, squash, sauna or a walk on the wild side.


The day finally ends with a touch of elegance in the "Owl and Trout" bar and gourmet dinner served with fine wine complimented by meticulous service and hospitality in the dining room, promising an unforgettable experience.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Waterfall Safari Lodge

One of the Forever Country jewels, Forever Resorts Waterfall Safari Lodge, can be found merely 40km outside of Middelburg.  This four star Lodge offers a beautiful bush setting for a wedding that will ooze with style and flair.  This Lodge prides itself on its delectable cuisine and superb service that is sure to provide the touch of class your day deserve.


Situated in the Kranspoort Mountains, Waterfall Safari Lodge offers the best of both worlds when combining the peaceful bush environment with luxury and comfort. Charming en-suite log cabins offer privacy. Game drives, 4x4 trails and walks are excellent. Weddings are our passion.


Charming log cabins (semi self-catering) and the spectacular four star Aloe Manor Guest House perched on a mountain top completes this haven in the bushveld. Our six airy, en-suite log cabins nestled between indigenous Lowveld trees allow for a restful breakaway whether you are on holiday or conferencing.
This lodge offers a range of activities to suit the entire family including a plunge rock pool, bar with large screen television and a restaurant overlooking the mountainous valley.


A challenging 4 x 4 route with a fabulous lookout point and game drives are on offer. Follow the nature trail to the waterfall and spend a quiet moment – ideal for anyone wishing to experience the great outdoors.

Friday, February 25, 2011

GARIEP RESORT

Forever Resorts Gariep is the perfect stopover between Gauteng and the Cape, 200 kilometres South of Bloemfontein in the Free State, just off the N1. The Resort is situated on the banks of Gariep Dam, the largest dam in South Africa and bordering the Gariep Dam Nature Reserve, home to many species of antelope and the Cape Mountain Zebra.


Accommodation consists of 44 two or three bedroom chalets and 12 luxury one or two bedroom chalets. The three star caravan park has 106 sites all with power and serviced by two ablution facilities. 16 of the luxury caravan sites have their own ablution facility.


The Resort has a restaurant and a ladies bar that can accommodate up to 100 guests and it is no trouble for the Gariep team to cater for lapa events, street braais, beach parties or any tailored theme evening.


The dam is a water sport enthusiast’s paradise, stretching 90 kilometres in length and 374 square kilometres in size, making sailing, jet skiing and power boating a pleasure.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Bushlands Game Lodge - Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal

Within 300 acres of bush and game and 300,000 acres of National Parks, you will find Bushlands Game Lodge. Experience a magical safari retreat where the wild run free.  


Designed to blend seamlessly with its surrounds, the lodge exudes a magnificent ambience of a naturally unspoilt environment. Bushlands offers fully air-conditioned, en-suite accommodation that blends with the African Bush, and is connected by raised wooden walkways which lead to the main dining room, bar, swimming pool and boma. Self-catering options are also available, and include braai facilities.


Small game such as warthog, nyala, impala, and wildebeest and many other animals and birds enjoy Bushlands Game Lodge’s peaceful ambience. Animals are often found wandering free through the property whilst guests are enjoying a scrumptious breakfast or romantic dinner amidst a moon-lit night and amazing stars. Daytime promises exciting Game Drives into the nearby game reserves where the “BIG 5” can be seen. At Bushlands, atmosphere is everything, and resident chefs are renowned for preparing mouth-watering venison dishes, after which guests can enjoy a relaxing retreat in the boma where a fire and friendly atmosphere awaits.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Natal Spa Hot Springs and Leisure Resort

Escape to a rejuvenating oasis at Natal Spa Hot Springs & Leisure Resort, situated on the road between Vryheid and Paulpietersburg on the Battlefields Route.  Set on 800 hectares of KwaZulu-Natal bushveld, the Resort has access to approximately four kilometres of the Bivane River flowing through the property. Famous for its serene location and the natural healing properties of the hot pools: at a source temperature of 37°C, the pools discovered in 1880, provide a constant supply of beneficial waters for guests and are well known for their anti-oxidant action. Claims made by Alkaline Springs, in Europe, is that the South African Medicinal Springs are superior in mineral content, temperature and other essential factors.


Although the main attraction on the Resort is of course the hot mineral pools, another popular attraction is the great 110m long super tube.  For the active there is quad bike trails, squash, tennis, hiking, birding trails, mountain bike trails and fishing. Indoor, relax with some snooker or table tennis.

Highlights in the hotel include an airy dining room and terrace with lovely views of the garden and pool areas, among others. Buffet breakfasts and dinners or a’ la carte dinners are on offer. Light meals are available from The Bistro, including snack platters, tea and scones, whilst the Raptors Restaurant bar is open from 10am until late which is a welcoming respite where guests can enjoy having drinks and socialising. The Boulders Bar alongside the heated pools also offers another venue to meet up.


The accommodation throughout the Resort is tastefully decorated and each room has tea/coffee making facilities and TV, offering 11 Hotel Bouquet DSTV channels.  Set amongst giant Cambrian granite boulders that are millions of years old, and with abundant birdlife, the Resort is also an idyllic and beautiful setting for wedding receptions and conferences. Three well-equipped conference rooms, which can accommodate between 10 – 120 delegates, are available.


The Wellness Centre & Beauty Spa are also popular attractions on the Resort and offer guests revitalising and pampering massages and treatments to indulge in.