Lightley’s Holiday Houseboats – Knysna

CAPTAIN OF YOUR OWN HOLIDAY    LIVE THE DREAM ... aboard fully equipped, 4- or 6-berth self-drive houseboats.

They will show you how to pilot your craft and make you Captain Of Your Own Holiday - catered or self-catered, you’ll be free to explore the safe, tranquil waters of Knysna’s Lagoon.   For holiday-makers, house boating is your accommodation - and it’s your entertainment; for honeymooners, it’s romance; and for business people, it’s an unusual conference and team building opportunity.  

The 6-berth, aluminium-hulled Aqua-chalets and newly-built, 4-berth, GRP Leisure Liners come complete with bedding, galleys (with fridges and gas stoves), ‘heads’ (shower rooms with chemical toilets) and portable barbecues. And the shore facility offers spacious ablution blocks and an indoor/outdoor conference and functions venue. 

 With Lightleys Holiday Houseboats you’ll enjoy all the pleasures of boating, and you’ll have the ideal base from which to discover the Garden Route. No experience or skipper’s license required.

What’s on board? Each boat is equipped with gas stove, two burner hob, 12 volt electric fridge, hot and cold water shower, porta potty chemical toilet, CD player and 12 volt electric lights plus cutlery, bedding and kitchen utensils. All the boats have a charcoal barbeque on board for the one that did not getaway. The new design Leisure Liners are equipped with swimming platforms at the back, a targa wing with collapsible sun awning. 

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Jaci's Safari Lodge - Madikwe Game Reserve North West Province

Jaci’s Lodges are an oasis of calm and serenity in the arid African bush.  Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip out of the city or a longer stay to recharge your batteries, the luxury accommodation and five-star service you’ll enjoy at Jaci’s ensure that you can kick back and relax in comfort and style.

The lodges offer two very unique five-star experiences, catering to both families looking to reconnect in a peaceful setting, and couples looking for a more intimate bush experience.

At Jaci's Tree Lodge, perched high up in the trees, you can relax in one of eight expansive treehouses (six king rooms and two twins) overlooking the Marico River and watch squirrels play in the tree canopy.

For those looking for a more down-to-earth experience, Jaci's Safari Lodge offers guests a tranquil space in which to unwind and interact with some of Africa’s most impressive wildlife. From your balcony – or even from your bed – you can see buck come down to the stream to drink.

The Starbed

Just a short walk from Jaci’s Tree Lodge is a small watering hole and wetland area which attracts a wealth of wildlife. On the banks of the watering hole is a small hide in which guests can quietly observe the diversity of life Jaci’s has to offer. Perched on top of the hide there is also a four-poster bed, where guests can enjoy a night out in the wild and experience game at night from a special vantage point.

Gym

For guests looking to continue their exercise regime while on holiday, Jaci’s on-site gym means you can hop onto a treadmill or exercise bike and burn off some calories from under the shade of the acacia trees overlooking the river. A play area is attached to the gym, in which children can keep occupied while you work out.

Swimming pools

Guests at Jaci’s Safari Lodge have the use of two swimming pools. A small plunge pool situated near to the main lodge makes for a refreshing dip after an afternoon game drive, while the larger pool, surrounded by lush green grass, is the perfect place to both cool off and soak up the warm African sun. Tree Lodge guests have access to a swimming pool surrounded by comfortable loungers, perfect for relaxing on after a refreshing swim.

Games room

Jaci’s Lodges provide both luxury and comfort, and the games room at Jaci's Safari Lodge is a simple addition that buys tired parents time off. With table tennis, foosball, a pool table, and a wide selection of board games, the games room is sure to keep even the most active children entertained for hours.

Masala Spa

At our newly established Masala Spa, let Kate, a trained beauty and massage therapist, use her magic touch to help you shake off the stress of the city. The spa currently offers full body, Indian head, back and shoulder and foot massages. Be pampered in the comfort of your room or relax and unwind in the soothing Masala room near the main lodge.

River walk

Guests at both lodges are encouraged to make use of the river walk between the two lodges. Take an amble along the river and you might be lucky enough to see a shy leguan or even a crocodile.

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Phantom View River Resort - Knysna, Garden Route

This beautiful resort is situated on the water’s edge of the Knysna Lagoon with uninterrupted views of the lagoon, the river and the Outeniqua Mountains. The two and three bedroom wooden log chalets are well equipped with wide shaded wooden verandas and large entertainment areas. All the bedrooms are en-suite and each chalet is equipped with a barbeque. All units are equipped for self-catering but off-site caterers can supply picnic baskets, breakfasts and suppers. 

 On site facilities include canoe, fishing boat and houseboat day rentals and for those wishing to bring their own boat we provide moorings. Guest facilities include a swimming pool, shaded parking and a laundry service.  

The resort is situated six kilometres from Knysna central and with-in easy distance of the beaches at Brenton-on-Sea, Buffelsbay, the Outeniqua mountains and the famous Knysna Forest.   Known as the “Crow’s Nest” the conference venue seats up to 50 delegates comfortably.   All units are equipped for self-catering but off-site caterers can supply picnic baskets, breakfasts and suppers. 

 Excellent all-year round weather makes the resort perfect for a family holiday, tour groups, conferences and incentives.

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Amanzi Maningi Guest Farm, Barberton

Amanzi Maningi is a guest farm near Barberton surrounded by beautiful trees and lots of birdlife. We have three dams which contain fish. For a quiet and relaxing getaway, this is the ideal place to be. We are also part of the R38 Wine Route.

Amanzi Maningi when translated means 'place of much water' and gets its name from the many streams and dams in the area. Situated in the honey bird area in Mpumalanga, just a short drive away from the bustle of Gauteng, Amanzi Maningi offers farm accommodation and is surrounded by beautiful fruit trees and dams. This makes for a tranquil setting, ideal for that dream getaway.

Stay over in one of our single or double rooms and after a hearty breakfast, explore the Kruger National Park during the day, or visit any of the nearby sights which include Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Jane Goodall Institute's Chimpanzee Eden, Mac Mac Pools, Pilgrims Rest, Sudwala Caves, Dinosaur Park, Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, Lowveld Botanical Gardens, historical mines and Graskop. You could also simply take a leisurely drive and just enjoy the tranquillity of the Lowveld. Alternatively, just sit next to one of our dams and fish whilst enjoying a splendid picnic basket. There is an abundance of waterfalls and hiking trails in the area for the more adventurous to explore, should you prefer.

We also offer self-catering accommodation, which can sleep two adults and two children. Breakfast is available on request.

After an eventful day, why not have dinner at Amanzi Maningi? We offer traditional South African fare including a braai with steak, real boerewors, pap and gravy or potjiekos with salad and homemade pot bread.

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Askari Game Lodge, Doornhoek, Gauteng

Situated on the Plumari Private Game Reserve in the Magaliesberg, just over an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria, Askari Game Lodge offers guests a memorable Big 5 wildlife experience within a malaria free environment.

Plumari Africa Game Reserve is set within a pristine wilderness area of over 4000 hectares with natural African bushveld and an abundance of flora, fauna, birdlife and wildlife. Two game drives, each approximately 2 to 2,5 hours in duration, are scheduled daily. Elephant Experiences include bush walks and interaction with our elephants, which include a 'touch and feed' experience.

Previously known as Plumari Game Lodge, the lodge will be trading as Askari Game Lodge from January 2010. The name change coincides with a number of exciting expansions which will be taking place at the lodge over the next few months. With immediate effect the room capacity will be increased, while retaining the current nostalgic look and feel of the lodge.

Accommodation

The main lodge overlooks the Elephant Dam and invites guests to take a step back in time while admiring South African décor pieces dating back to the 1800’s. Slipper baths, a coal stove, wash stands, luggage chests, antique Oregon cupboards and tables are subtly placed within the luxury four-star surrounding, to emphasize the captivating history of the Magaliesberg area.

Askari Lodge has one of the largest private collections of ox wagons, carts and other animal drawn vehicles from the period 1800 to 1900. A variety of stone and iron-age arte facts, items from the Boer War and San Bushmen rock carvings tell the history of the area, which is also known for the nearby Battle of Nooitgedacht. Examples are available in the museum and guided bush walks take guests through areas where many stone carvings can be found.

Askari Lodge caters for romantic getaways, conferences, teambuilding initiatives, training courses and weddings. Nature lovers and birding enthusiasts will find the experience most rewarding, while stressed city dwellers will leave feeling rejuvenated and well-rested.

Weddings

Ever been blessed by an elephant? Enjoy wedding celebrations with a difference at Askari Lodge in Magaliesberg. Just over an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria, Askari Lodge offers wedding parties a memorable Big 5 wildlife experience where Africa meets Antique Dutch, in an area steeped with history.

All wedding reception venues are within a short stroll from the 120-seater chapel. The Lapa, overlooking the Elephant Dam, accommodates small groups of up to 40. Set on pure river sand under a giant thatch roof structure, the Lapa with its central roaring fireplace, affords astonishing night sky views as well as a view over the Plumari Private Game Reserve.

Akira Wedding venue is situated in the new Day Visitors Centre. Accommodating up to 120 guests, it has a beautiful deck with views over the Magaliesberg mountain range and is abundant with African symbology, rich earthy colours and unique African décor focal points. The upstairs wedding venue opens up onto the Azima Restaurant, viewing deck and Enzi Bar, ideal for pre-wedding drinks or entertainment.

Conferences

The brand new Day Visitors Center, which houses four of the six conference venues, is abundant with African symbology, rich earthy colours and unique African décor focal points. This brand new addition to Askari Lodge is ideal for groups between 20 and 150 delegates. The upstairs conference venue opens up onto the Azima Restaurant, viewing deck and Enzi Bar, while the ground floor venues have a breath-taking view over the Magaliesberg mountain range.

The circular Lapa with roaring fireplace in the middle, is set on pure river sand under a giant thatch roof structure and accommodates up to 40 people . It is ideal for 'outdoor' meetings and conferences which call for a ‘bosberaad’ feel. Overlooking the elephant dam, this venue is open-sided with drop down canvas, ensuring your privacy, while affording an expansive view over the Game Reserve.

The spa

Askari Spa at Askari Game Lodge reflects the environment that surrounds it – African veldt and wildlife rise up to meet the African sky and majestic Magaliesberg mountain range. This Big 5 Game lodge is scenically set between Hekpoort and Magalieburg and pays tribute to South Africa’s rich archeological and cultural history within a malaria-free environment.

Located in the heart of the lodge, the spa complex boasts with an individual treatment room, a couples room with a double outdoor shower and a couples hydrotherapy bath, separate mens and ladies change rooms each with a unique steam room which opens into one. The entire spa opens up on outdoor relaxation areas and private gardens.

Numerous pathways throughout the beautiful surrounding gardens allow for leisurely walks pre- and post-treatment. The spa also incorporates a pedicure and manicure lounge, juice bar, swimming pool with day beds and a retail area.

Our core philosophy of natural health is based on nurture, inspiration and the use of mother Earth's ingredients, to provide you with the most invigorating treatments imaginable. For centuries, African women have utilized natural herbal concoctions, creams and oils to enhance natural beauty and to maintain health. Found on our reserve the Wild Olive Tree, Artemisia Afra (Wormwood) and Aloe Vera have been well known for centuries for its healing properties. We now combine both ancient and contemporary techniques in a natural manner, designed to bring balance and harmony to cater to the needs of every Individual.

Soothe away the stress of modern life and dissolve impurities, under the gentle fingers of our therapists. The benefits to body and spirit will be truly rewarding.

Attractions & activities

For those that wish to stimulate their minds, stroll through our history museum viewing historic memorabilia from stone age tools and thousand year old San bushman carvings found on the Reserve to viewing one of the largest private collections of ox wagons and carts in South Africa.

For those that wish to stimulate their bodies, we offer hiking or a session with our beauty/ relaxation consultant. If more exercise or adrenaline is required, in close proximity is clay pigeon shooting, archery, paint-balling, horse-riding, fishing and hot-air ballooning. Or, just be captivated by the game drives or elephant experience (learn about, touch, feed and even ride).

Your hosts will be delighted to cater to your every need. If you require information or assistance with tours, transport, outings or just general help please let us know. Also note we are in a Malaria-free area and don't worry when to come, the weather is perfect all year round.

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LEOPARD’S TRAIL GUEST FARM

This ideal getaway embraces the beauty and captures the spirit of the mountains at Leopard’s Trail Guest Farm, situated a mere 30 kilometres North of Middelburg en-route to Loskop Dam.  We look forward to welcoming nature lovers giving them the opportunity to share in the day to day farm activities.

Forever Resorts Leopard’s Trail Guest Farm offers accommodation in a spacious farm house that boasts an entertainment area with a pool table, overlooking the farm surroundings.  The house has a spacious living area and an open plan kitchen equipped with the necessary utensils, crockery and cutlery.

Experience true South African farm life and be part of the daily farm activities.  A small pool and lapa completes the picturesque experience.  This place will free your soul!

This Guest Farm is ideal for family reunions or a group of friends celebrating a weekend in nature with all the everyday necessities available for comfort.

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Tierkloof Hiking Trail

Dramatic gorges, stunning mountain scenery, amazing wildlife and birds characterize the Tierkloof Hiking Trail in Gamkaberg Nature Reserve.

This moderately strenuous trail starts in the Succulent Karoo biome before heading into a lush, forested ravine. Here a melodic chorus of forest songbirds rings in the kloof – particularly the vocal Bokmakieries and Southern Boubous. A pair of breeding Black eagles have claimed the cliffs for their eyrie and can often be seen soaring in the thermals.

The two-day trail eventually leads hikers onto the fragrant fynbos-clad mountain plateau. Spectacular views of the Swartberg and Outeniqua Mountains can be enjoyed from the far-flung overnight stop at Oukraal camp.

The camp provides beds, mattresses, gas fridge, stove, fireplace and ablutions. Permits can be obtained from the CapeNature Booking Office.

Day One 14.5 km, Day Two 13 km.

Where to stay

Rietfontein Ostrich Palace - 18.90km from Tierkloof Hiking Trail

Welcome to Rietfontein Ostrich Palace, a working ostrich farm situated between Calitzdorp (Port Capital of the World) and Oudtshoorn (Ostrich Capital of the world) on the Route 62 (longest wine route in South Africa). It is the eldest working ostrich farm in the Cape Colony, established by the Potgieter family in 1897 and boasts with one of the most intriguing ostrich palaces, dating back to the early 1900’s (the feather boom era). 

Enjoy a scrumptious meal at our restaurant - we serve ostrich cuisine and local wine. Our accommodation comprises of 3 units (6 rooms ) each with en-suite bathroom and equipped with all necessaries. Experience an one hour private ostrich farm tour daily. Not commercial. Experience the historical side of Rietfontein Ostrich Palace & the Feather Boom Era.

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