Review by Sasha Wyatt-Minter
Gwahumbe Reserve Game and Spa prides itself on being able to offer their guests the ultimate, intimate, relaxing bush experience. I can certainly vouch for this, as my recent weekend visit left me feeling both relaxed, and very very pampered.
From the moment we arrived at this luxury game lodge, situated near the inland town of Mid-Illovo in Kwa-Zulu Natal (less than an hour's drive from both Durban and Pietermaritzburg), the tranquil surroundings and impressive views across the valley set the mood for a relaxing and peaceful weekend.
Our bedroom was the epitome of comfort and luxury: every need was catered for, from the sherry decanter on the table, to the discreet spritzing air freshener that intermittently filled the air with the subtle aroma of citrus...
The view from our room's verandah was breath-taking - hill upon hill of different shades of green and two giraffes in the distance completed the African experience.
A romantic, private dinner (part of their couples' pamper package) was booked for our first evening - and when I saw what this included, I was really glad I took my husband, rather than my mom, to Gwahumbe. The hydro room in the beautiful Zen-like Wellness Centre contained a table set for two, champagne on ice, an inviting spa bath and a chocolate fondue to feast on for dessert amongst the bubbles.
Candles flickered gently among frangiapanis, and pan-pipe like ballads filtered through the sound system. The night was ours; we just had to blow out the candles when we left. If Gwahumbe want to win the prize for most romantic Spa, they've got my vote!
This overnight pamper package for couples is the ideal way to spend the first night of a honeymoon, but is also highly recommended for old married couples who need time away alone together. Fall in love with your partner all over again in this sublime setting of bubbles, moonlight, wine and flowers.
But wait; there's more. The next morning we returned to the Wellness Centre for our morning of pampering treatments. Enter into this sacred oasis of calm and well-being through a magnificent ornately carved door that immediately evokes images and the feel of the East. The theme of tranquility and simplicity is continued in the contained, landscaped garden where a water feature tinkles quietly and guests can rest outside on wooden loungers while they wait for their treatments.
Our full body massages were sublime, and attention to detail is the trademark of Gwahumbe. Not only did our therapists make sure we were warm, relaxed and comfortable throughout, but a bowl of pretty stones and flowers on the floor ensured that there was something to look at while we were massaged. A small gesture perhaps, but impressive and thoughtful nonetheless.
My feet loved the paraffin wax treatment - a first, but one to remember for the future. The warm wax forms a coating, that when peeled, leaves your feet silky soft and ready for summer. Treatments for both partners are part of the overnight pamper package, but the Wellness Centre also caters for day visitors, and a day spent enjoying some of the many treatments in the two massage rooms and sampling the steam room, hydro room, wet room and gym, complete with lunch is the ultimate way to de-stress.
A visit to Gwahumbe is not complete without a game drive. Hippo, rhino, giraffe, antelope, zebra and amazing birdlife can all be seen grazing on the banks of the river that runs through the reserve. Our gracious hosts, Annien and Dino even packed some sherry for the trip, and a stop for snacks and beverages on the river bank is all part of the experience.
There's plenty to do at Gwahumbe, so an overnight stay at the lodge is highly recommended. The service is great and the bar is a wonderful place to congregate - a place where your glass is never empty and hospitable managers are happy to chat in front of the roaring log fire. Choose between catered and self catering accommodation (complete with rim flow swimming pools and your own braai - great for guests with children) or book the rustic bush camp for a family adventure or a unique team-building experience. There are conference facilities too and a wedding reception at Gwahumbe would be a very special experience, I'm sure.
Gwahumbe offers locals and tourists alike, the best of Africa, and is the ultimate destination for a weekend retreat. The food is superb, the staff are always smiling and their excellent service will please the most discerning of guests. I'm recommending it to all the couples I know who are in need of pampering in beautiful surroundings. Of course there's the game and lots to do if you're into walking and picnics too, but when I go back it will be for the treatments and the romance.
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