The five-star Likweti (“morning star” in SiSwati) Lodge in Mpumalanga has stunning views of the Swazi mountains on the horizon.
The lodge boasts numerous species of antelope and monkeys, as well as buffalo and rhino, which are sometimes found grazing on the wide lawns surrounding the lodge. It is also home to more than 300 bird species, including the elusive African Finfoot.
There are eight executive rooms and two luxury suites, all built with privacy, comfort and functionality in mind.
Every room has an en-suite bathroom, spacious bedroom and lounge with entertainment system, stream body shower big enough for two, marble bath, king-size bed, fully stocked bar fridge and gas fireplace to ward off the mountain chill.
On the veranda is an outdoor shower and furniture on which to relax while taking in the beautiful views and passing wildlife.
The two luxury suites are popular with honeymooners as they ensure privacy and have heated plunge pools for those cooler days and nights.
The atmosphere is guaranteed to revive the soul and lift the spirit.
Charming hosts Daniell and Zelodia du Toit gave us a warm welcome and served us freshly baked biscuits with strong filter coffee on arrival.
Likweti is not only tasteful but comfortable – with crisp cotton linen and fat, fluffy pillows on the beds, a roaring fire and good food.
Chef Marlize Marais goes to great lengths to produce delicious food and the meals are based on available seasonal produce from local suppliers.
Dietary requirements are well catered for. Look forward to a hearty breakfast on the wooden deck and lunch under the trees next to the pool, which generally consist of a light meal such as Thai-style sweet-and-sour chicken and vegetable stir-fry tortilla wraps, accompanied by a scrumptious salad.
Dinner is the highlight, with dishes such as finely slivered Springbok carpaccio interleaved with crisp greens and herbs, Roquefort cheese and creamy black pepper-crusted goat’s cheese towers drizzled with a wild berry coulis, for starters.
You might be tempted to skip straight to the moist dark Belgium chocolate brownies with white chocolate chips topped with Chantilly cream, dark chocolate shard and a passion fruit coulis.
For corporate functions, the thatched Pezulu Room can take up to 80 delegates. More nature-related experiences are available, such as game drives, bird watching and stargazing, all conducted by knowledgeable and passionate folk, such as ranger Irma Roos.
There is plenty to do nearby, including river rafting, hot-air ballooning and horse riding. Likweti is an ideal base from which to explore other Lowveld attractions such as Blyde River Canyon and Sudwala Caves.
Rates for South Africans are R1 150 per person sharing on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis for a luxury suite. Executive rooms are R850 per person sharing for dinner, bed and breakfast. Game drives are R175 each, based on six people in a vehicle.
Call 013 750 8100, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.likweti.co.za - Sunday Tribune