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Phinda Vlei Lodge

Game Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal

Description

With just six plunge-pool suites, andBeyond Vlei Lodge is one of andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserves most exclusive properties and affords an intimate atmosphere.  Set beside forest, wetland meadows and a busy watering hole, it boasts constant animal sightings, along with some of the reserve’s very best guides.  It also promises intense relaxation: teak shutters and uncluttered spaces generating a chilled-out, Balinese vibe.  The surrounding game reserve near guarantees your encountering the Big Five, while its privileged position also enables easy beach jaunts and numerous other activities.

 Accommodation

Carefully positioned, each of those 6 suites comes with a large private plunge pool, and accompanying deck, from which you can watch antics of monkeys or zebra passing across the pans.  Even the indoor freestanding tub has wildlife-spotting potential thanks to its large glass walls.  The spacious units also contain open seating areas, decadent dark-wood furniture and hugely comfortable beds.

Facilities

The main lodge contains a cosy, fire-heated lounge, plus its own expansive game viewing decks and relaxation areas.  Afternoons can be whiled away reading a book, or daydreaming as a herd of elephants come to drink nearby.  Dinner will be served outside if possible, including dramatic banquets out on the bush itself, under a never-ending carpet of stars.  Alternatively, dine privately in your own suite.

Activities

Following coffee and biscuits, early morning game safaris are likely to bring Big Five encounters, and many a cheetah.  Afternoon tea, evening safaris and their sundowners are also complimentary, along with birdwatching, educative ranger walks, canoeing and river cruises, while other activities – thrilling flights to those Maputaland beaches, night-time turtle drives (November to January), deep sea fishing, in-room massages – cost extra.

Child Policy

All children over 6 are welcome, although those aged 6-12 can only go on game drives at a guide’s discretion.  

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