The Royal Malewane luxury safari lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park – part of The Royal Portfolio of hotels and lodges – is undergoing refurbishments, including new additions to the lodge.
“The refurbishment will give the entire lodge a lovely lift while retaining the classic safari style and relaxed atmosphere that our guests have enjoyed for nearly 20 years,” says Ross Bowers, Marketing and Communications Manager of The Royal Portfolio. It was critical to founders Liz and Phil Biden that the character of the lodge was not lost during the structural work. “While we love implementing new, exciting ideas and stylish additions to our properties, it’s crucial that the basics are done right – all the behind the scenes work that should go unnoticed.”
Located in Thornybush Game Reserve, and being easily accessible by road and air, the luxury lodge has always exuded a romantic beauty, while offering modern comfort and convenience. It currently has six Luxury Suites, two Royal Suites, and the Africa House – an exclusive-use bush villa with six bedrooms.
The following refurbishments are underway:
- New walls and floors in the suites
- All wooden decking and door frames are being reconditioned
- New entrances to The Royal Suites
- New thatching throughout the lodge
- Resurfacing of all pools while retaining all the water in large tanks
- A number of new walkways, as well as a pond, now interlink various areas around the main lodge
- Spa upgrades including a new hot tub
A bush bar is also being added to the main lodge, providing guests with a space to relax within the surrounding wildlife. Built onto the existing boma – on the edge of a watering hole – the bar will showcase the lodge’s collection of gins and over 50 whiskies.
The Kosher Kitchen is also being upgraded, and fitted with necessary equipment
Exceptional safari and game-viewing experiences take guests to see the Big Five and explore the local ecosystems, led by a team of highly qualified guides and trackers. They can then indulge in the tranquillity of the Waters of Royal Malewane Bush Spa. Evenings allow guests to enjoy a culinary feast beneath the African stars.
Work will be completed by mid-April, and the upgraded lodge will announce its opening date soon.
