Many thanks to Retha, Jan, Frik and Chantelle, the owners and manager of this lovely lodge for allowing me to spend eleven wonderful days here doing a survey of the plants and insects. It is greatly appreciated!!
The lodge is situated about 2km from Nylsvley, about 20km from Naboomspruit and is a birding paradise with not only the bushveld species but the ones which breed in the nearby marsh too. The tranquil setting is a true place to unwind and get rid of the stress of living in the city. It is about 2 hours drive from Pretoria and Johannesburg so is easily reached for a weekend break. For someone like myself, I would suggest at least a week in order to absorb the beauty of the nature surrounding it.
Besides the abundance of birds, there are so many interesting flowers, plants and insects to see. Yeah okay, I know most of you can do without the insects but they are not the “buzzing around your head” type which will annoy you but rather they are found on the lush vegetation of the gardens and veld.
There are conference facilities for those who want to combine the relaxation of a bush environment with the mundane tasks of the workplace and a small gym for the energetic few plus of course, the swimming pool in which to cool down during the hot summer days.
Accommodation ranges to suit the needs and size of all groups and families with a dormitory which can take 24 people for larger groups such as bird clubs. In total, about 80 people can be accommodated here.
There are 19 en suite comfortable and cosy rooms to choose from ranging from standard, family and luxury.
All rooms are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities. A heater, fan or air-conditioning and television are standard.
Bathrooms have a bath and/or shower with towels supplied as well as a variety of other bathroom amenities.
For camping enthusiasts, there are facilities available where food can also be made in the lapa, equipped with a fridge and microwave.
There is a lovely bar and restaurant available where meals are catered for on request. Three of the chalets are self-catering but once again, meals can be arranged if required.
An outdoor lapa is a great place to spend time chatting, having meals or just hanging around with your friends. It has a top floor which is ideal for a get-together such as a braai. Next to it is the swimming pool and tennis court all with their own ablution block.
Game drives to Nylsvley are done on request and special team-building activities can be arranged to suit your company needs.
All in all, it is the ideal place for family celebrations, weekend getaways, special occasions, conferences and weddings.
The lodge is listed with Birdlife South Africa and was featured in Country Life (February 2012 issue).
Please consider this lovely place for your next weekend away. For reservations and more information you can contact Dinonyane Lodge on telephone: 014 743-6969 Fax: 086 574-5302 E-mail: info@dinonyane.co.za or visit their website at: www.dinonyane.co.za
