Zuleika Country House
Blyde River Canyon
Funky guesthouse with contemporary rooms (B&B and self-catering), situated in the stunning Blyde River Canyon close to Kruger
Situated on the edge of wonderful Blyde River Canyon (the largest
green canyon in the world), Zuleika Country House provides the best
of everything. You get fabulous views from the cliff tops
overlooking the 33km Limpopo gorge. There's nature and wildlife all
around: a beautiful 1.5-hectare garden with bird-thronged trees and
path-lined lawns, and lowveld bush and lemon orchards outside.
You're only a 40-minute drive from the abundant game in Kruger
Park. There's style too - bright interiors are full of contemporary
organic design influenced, perhaps, by the architect's work in
post-wall Berlin.
The 9 contemporary guest rooms and 6
self-catering rooms make a refreshing change from the
prevailing colonial theme hereabouts. There are local masks, pots,
artwork and photos; and plenty of modern comforts. Outside you'll
find a romantic terrace and, by the baobab trees, an elevated
10x10m swimming pool (a former farm dam). Active types of all ages
and inclinations will find no end of entertainment: white-water
rafting, canyoning, ballooning, game drives, elephant rides,
cliffside walks. The less active, meanwhile, can lounge in hammocks
with a sundowner watching the dramatic Drakensburg cliffs darken
with the sunset.
Recommended awaiting i-escape review
Last updated 22 December 2011
Highs
- Spectacular scenery, wonderful vistas and a 1.5-hectare indigenous garden to explore
- Top class game-and bird-spotting within 45 minutes' drive (bring binoculars!)
- Buildings are tucked away between farming estates so all is peaceful and private
- First class hospitality and efficient management from Lukas and Altie
- Warm all year round: winter lows of 20C, summer highs of 40C
- Children will love it here, and there are self-catering rooms if you want to be independent
- Innovative design using natural materials - clay tiles, thatch, reed, wood and canvas
Lows
- This is a rural area and power failures can occur in windy weather
- Occasionally the taps produce muddy water, due to local water pressure and irrigation
- While there is a malaria risk in the area, it is relatively small and complimentary sprays are available to keep insects at bay
