Lakenvlei Forest Lodge

Lakenvlei Forest Lodge, Belfast, Mpumalanga

Description:

The main lodge situated at the edge of the wetland and in close proximity to the chalets, incorporates a cosy pub and a country-style restaurant specialising in fine country cuisine. Meals can be taken on an all-inclusive basis or booked separately in advance. The timber deck of the main lodge offers a splendid view of a myriad channels and little islands, all surrounded by dense reed beds from where a symphony of bird songs emanate. The deck is the ideal place to relax with a sundowner and enjoy the spectacular African sunsets.

Accommodation:

Solid Log Chalets:

Twelve luxury chalets, permeated with the fresh smell of real pine, provide an exclusive haven for visitors to the lodge. Chalets include:

Six 8-sleeper chalets, with two en-suite double bedrooms and a loft room sleeping four persons, and

Six four-sleeper chalets, with one double en-suite bedroom and a loft room sleeping two persons

The chalets are majestically constructed, using solid pine logs of the environment they are situated in and finished to perfection with fireproof thatch. Exquisitely furnished in comfortable cottage style and fully equipped for self-catering. Another charming feature of the log chalets is the huge fireplace (With a generous supply of firewood), the focal point of this home away from home.

Luxuriously equipped and serviced daily, the self-catering chalets provide a peaceful haven from which to explore the surroundings. Each chalet is provided with at least two mountain bikes and a boat for rowing or fishing on the lake.

Facilities:

Shop
Our shop stocks basic fly-fishing tackle as well as a selection of Lakenvlei clothing. Charcoal is also stocked for the Weber braais in the chalets.

Conference Facilities
Ideal for corporate brain-storming sessions and conferences with a difference, our conference centre comfortably accommodates up to 35 delegates.

The facility is equipped with conventional presentation and audio-visual equipment and provision can be made to accommodate special needs on request. Our booking arrangements are flexible, allowing you to customise your event according to your needs.

The vast range of activities also makes Lakenvlei the ideal team building venue.

The Stables

Horses are stabled in a very comfortable and attractive log complex redolent of pine and thatch, complete with central courtyard and a drinking fountain.

Observatory
Our unique observatory is situated on the wetland and accessed from bridge suspended over the water. The observatory houses a computerised 12 inch Meade telescope.

Stepping out

Spending time outdoors will bring you into contact with most of the unique eco-systems in the area, including grasslands, rocky outcrops and the lush forest floor. For the more energetic, the area can be explored while hiking or mountain biking. There are several trail options, ranging from easy to difficult. Something for every level of fitness or interest.

Fly fishing

The Dullstroom and Belfast areas are synonymous with fly fishing. Fly fishing for trout can be done from boats on the main dam and bass fishing from the shore of the separate bass dam.

The main lake in front of the lodge is well stocked with large Rainbow trout and fly fishing is done from sturdy bass boats. Fish of up to 2 kg are regularly caught. Mayfly hatches in summer and other natural foods are abundant. No supplementary feeding of trout is done.

The second lake is also stocked with Large-mouthed black bass, and fly- or lure fishing can be done from the jetties.

Horse riding

Experience the pristine beauty of Lakenvlei while horseback riding. Equestrian facilities include up-market stabling with morning and afternoon guided outrides. Special provision is made for novice, intermediate and advanced riders. Pony rides are available for children, as well as horse cart trips along the wetlands and through the forest, specially for the less energetic or more romantically inclined guests.

Bird watching

Until now, more than 220 bird species have been recorded and the numbers are increasing. Bird lovers will find the wetlands especially rewarding, with the opportunity to tick off species not normally encountered. The bird hide on the edge of the bass dam provides the ideal opportunity to observe the water- and wetland bird species in their natural habitat.

As mentioned, the wetland offers vast bird-watching opportunities, either on foot, by mountain bike or from the bird hide. A leisurely walk or cycle will also bring you in contact with species that frequent the grassland, rocky outcrops, forest floor and birds in the canopy habitats.

Bird lists are available from the shop.

Bird hide

Overlooking the wetland and lake, the bird hide provides an ideal opportunity to have a peak into the private lives of the abundance of water birds.

The stables

Horses are stabled in a very comfortable and attractive log complex, constructed from pine and thatch, complete with a central courtyard and drinking fountain.

Tennis

Enjoy a game of tennis on our court with its unique forest setting. Bring your own equipment or rent from reception.

Day trails

Several marked trails are laid out around the wetland and lakes. These trails range in distance and difficulty, from 4 - 12 km. Maps available at reception.

Mountain bike trails

The 4 500 ha estate offers a vast array of possible routes by mountain bike. Guests are welcome to bring along their own mountain bikes. A limited number of small bikes are available for children.