Lions Valley Lodge - Private Game Reserve

Lions Valley Lodge - Private Game Reserve

Description

This region is steeped in history and is particularly well known for the Battle of Elandslaagte which was fought on the Reserve, during the Anglo Boer War. 

Guests to Lions Valley Lodge enjoy informative early morning and late afternoon game viewing safaris, accompanied by our experienced game rangers. 

We take pride in making every guests stay with us a memorable one. Whether you are celebrating a wedding, honeymoon, birthday, anniversary, or just enjoying a break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life we will endeavour to help you relax, unwind and indulge yourself in the wonderful world of wildlife that inhabits this bushveld.

About Lions Valley Lodge : Main Lodge

Lions Valley Lodge is built in an African architectural style, with natural tree-trunks supporting the majestic thatch roof. The Main Lodge exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to submit to the magic of the African bush.

The magnificent Porte Cochere leads into the main reception area where guests are immediately drawn to the awe inspiring view across the valley.

Off the dining room is the boma that is built in the traditional style around an open central fireplace. This area is reminiscent of the rural African lifestyle, where the boma forms an integral part of daily life. During the day you can enjoy the view overlooking the waterhole and at night experience an unforgettable evening dining under the canopy of stars. The adjacent bar is where guests gather to enjoy pre-dinner cocktails or to linger over after-dinner liqueurs.

The reception area leads off to the library with its cosy atmosphere that on colder days is enhanced by a crackling fire burning in the hearth. This room is the perfect place to unwind and perhaps discover more about the history of the area.

The pool terrace at the Main Lodge offers a wonderful area where guests can socialise, cool off in the spectacular rim-flow infinity pool or spend a few hours relaxing on the comfortable poolside loungers. This is an opportunity to absorb the glorious view of the bushveld and waterhole. Many species of game can be seen gathering at the waterhole at various times of the day and particularly towards sunset.

The Curio Shop offers a wide range of African artefacts, beaded articles and ornaments.

About Lions Valley Lodge : Cuisine

When not dining in the traditional boma, guests dine in the elegantly decorated dining room. Mouth-watering dishes are prepared to the highest standards using the freshest ingredients sourced from local suppliers or grown in our own back garden.

Dining at Lions Valley is a culinary adventure, combining regional African cuisine with the multitude of cooking styles left behind by early explorers of this great continent.

We stock a wide selection of South African wines, spirits and liqueurs, as well as a variety of whiskies.

At brunch, guests can choose between a continental breakfast served buffet style or a la carte hot dishes made to order.

High tea is served every afternoon and includes fragrant teas and delicious sweet and savoury eats.

A mouth-watering gourmet dinner is served after guests return from their late afternoon safari.

Should you have any special dietary requirements, be it vegetarian food, a low salt diet, etc let us know and we will do our utmost to accommodate you.

About Lions Valley Lodge : What to bring

Bring comfortable, light clothing, walking shoes, sun hats and sunscreen plus a swimsuit in summer and warm clothing for game drives in winter.

Binoculars, cameras and bird books will be handy.

Accommodation

Lions Valley Lodge : Africa Suite

The Africa Suite emanates an air of magical mystery with its decor of natural hides, traditional wooden masks and tribal cultural artefacts. This suite is the epitome of an African experience, allowing visitors to explore the magnitude of Africa's splendour throughout their stay.

Lions Valley Lodge : Bird Suite

The elegant decor in the Bird Suite is a reflection of KwaZulu-Natal's abundant birdlife. The original paintings in this suite are examples of some of the 183 identified indigenous birds on the Conservancy List.

Lions Valley Lodge : Elandslaagte Suite

The Elandslaagte Suite is decorated with memorabilia that recalls the Battle of Elandslaagte, with military emblems and historic artefacts dating back to the late 1800s.

Lions Valley Lodge : Madiba Suite

The Madiba Suite is decorated in a style that pays homage to our beloved Nelson Mandela, the revered South African statesman. Former President Mandela has gained worldwide respect and recognition for his magnanimous philosophy of peace and reconciliation and his name will go down in the annals of history as one of the greatest statesmen the world has ever known.

Lions Valley Lodge : Ndebele Suite

The decor of the Ndebele Suite features beaded tribal artwork, cultural artefacts and colourful textiles that portray a sense of strength and pride. The Ndebele people are known for their rich cultural heritage, as depicted in their highly imaginative beadwork and the brightly coloured mural patterns. These murals are hand-painted by talented women on the walls of their traditional dwellings.

Lions Valley Lodge : Nguni Suite

The Nguni Suite is decorated with genuine Nguni Cattle hides and leather items as a mark of respect for the noble indigenous herds that form an intrinsic part of the KwaZulu-Natal landscape. These cattle signify wealth and prosperity in the Zulu culture.

Lions Valley Lodge : Romance Suite

The Romance Suite indulges the senses with gloriously romantic, decorative touches designed to stir the emotions and kindle the flames of passion. This romantic suite is the piece de resistance, a celebration of love and romantic devotion. It is the ultimate honeymoon destination.

Lions Valley Lodge : Safari Suite

The Safari Suite recalls nostalgic memories of the early years of African exploration when going on safari represented a daunting challenge. The decorative touches hark back to scenes from the bygone days of 'Out of Africa'.

Lions Valley Lodge : Spaza Suite

The Spaza Suite offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience a taste of the traditional African trading store, known as the Spaza shop. On arrival at a Spaza, one immediately becomes aware of having entered a vastly different environment, usually stacked and hung from floor to ceiling with displays offering a myriad of goods of all descriptions to satisfy the needs and desires of a varied clientele. It is a magical world filled with a heady atmosphere of colour, texture and aromas.

Lions Valley Lodge : Zebra Suite

The decor of the Zebra Suite features authentic zebra skins and zebra-patterned textiles that echo the grace and charm of these enchanting, nimble-footed animals.

Lions Valley Lodge : Honeymoons

Many treats await the honeymoon couple, from sparkling wine to romantic turndowns. The Romance suite will indulge the honeymooner's senses. This suite is a celebration of love and romantic devotion. Tucked away in amongst the surrounding trees and bushes honeymooners can enjoy the privacy of their outdoor jacuzzi while enjoying the view of the valley beneath them.

During this memorable time with us, we will be delighted to arrange a romantic bush dinner under a canopy of stars for you. (This is weather dependant!)

We will endeavour to make your honeymoon a special romantic time together, with plenty of opportunity to relax and unwind.

Attractions

About Lions Valley Lodge : Massage Studio

We have three in-house therapists at Lions Valley Lodge and guests are invited to indulge themselves with a massage in the Massage Studio situated beneath the Main Lodge. This studio looks out on to the waterhole and is nestled amongst the trees and bushes. Whilst being pampered, guests are able to listen to the calls of the numerous bird species that inhabit the area.

Our therapists offer, back and shoulder, Indian head or hot-stone massages.

Guests who prefer to spoil themselves with a massage in the privacy of their own suite can also be accommodated.

Lions Valley Lodge : Wildlife : The Big Five

Lions Valley Lodge is situated in the malaria-free Nambiti Conservancy and is home to the Big Five, namely elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo. These animals are all iconic symbols of the animal kingdom and are an intrinsic part of our proud African wildlife heritage.

On the reserve there are also a number of smaller predators such as hyena, cheetah and other members of the cat family. In addition to the Big Five the reserve offers a wide variety of antelope, as well as giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, hippo, jackal, warthog, various reptiles and a myriad of insects.

Lions Valley Lodge : Wildlife : Bird Life

Lions Valley Lodge is a veritable bird lovers' paradise. There are 183 identified indigenous birds on the Conservancy List. Of special interest are the Fish Eagle, Red-billed Oxpecker and Black Stork. The reserve's many dams attract water birds such as the Spoonbill, Spurwing Goose and African Darter.

The birdlife in the area will fascinate even the most experienced ornithologist.

Lions Valley Lodge : Activities : Game Drives

Guests can choose to go on morning and afternoon game drives, accompanied by our experienced resident game rangers. During these safaris, guests are served snacks and refreshments at suitable bush clearings, making this bush experience even more memorable.

Our game vehicles are equipped with individual seats with safety belts for maximum comfort and each vehicle conforms to the highest safety standards.

Where possible private game drives and drives suitable for children will be accommodated.

Lions Valley Lodge : Activities : Waterfall Picnics

For nature enthusiasts who prefer to spend more time in the private game reserve, there are bush braais and picnics at the waterfall, where the enthralling birdcalls compete for attention with the delightful sound of the falling water.

Lions Valley Lodge : Activities : Fishing

Fishing for Yellowtail in the Sundays River that runs through the reserve or for Bass in one of our many well stocked dams can be arranged. Fishing rods are available at the lodge.

Lions Valley Lodge : Activities : Golf

Golfers can book a round of golf at one of the local golf courses which are just 20 minutes away from the reserve. Please bring along your own golf clubs.

Lions Valley Lodge : Activities : Battlefield Tours

For lovers of history, trips to the historic Boer and Zulu War Battlefield sites and the War Museum in Ladysmith can be arranged.

Lions Valley Lodge : Activities : Bush Survival Course

This adventure course includes learning practical skills like finding water, identifying animal tracks, finding direction, warning signs of dangerous animals, flagship species and parental care of flagship species as well as learning various survival techniques. This course is particularly suitable for children.

Lions Valley Lodge : Activities : Bush Cooking Course

Our resident chef is keen to share his wealth of knowledge and teach visitors how to bake "beer bread" or some other delight out in the bush.

Lions Valley Lodge : Activities : Stargazing

When night falls over the bushveld and the animal world sleeps, the night skies come alive with a spectacular display. The natural, unpolluted air ensures a clear view of the magical African sky. As well as introducing guests to the world of star gazing, well-trained game rangers teach visitors how to locate the renowned Southern Cross and how to find North using this as a guide. Study our solar system using the telescope on the deck of the Main Lodge.

Facilities

Lions Valley Lodge : Conferencing

Lions Valley Lodge offers a unique setting for small conference groups and high-level corporate or team-building breakaways. The conference room accommodates 20 people comfortably in boardroom-style seating. The conference facility is well planned and includes all the necessary equipment.

Conference delegates are offered teas, coffees and refreshments during the conference. All other amenities such as welcome drinks on arrival, all meals and game drives are also available to all delegates.

Lions Valley Lodge : Weddings

Start the first of your memories together with a magical bush wedding.

Lions Valley Lodge is perfect if you want a magical wedding in the bush with Mother Nature and the wild on your guest list. No effort will be spared in making your wedding day a memory to be cherished. We undertake to assist you in all your arrangements, from flowers to table settings to a dinner banquet either in our traditional African Boma or our elegantly decorated dining room.