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One of Africa’s southernmost game reserves, in the heart of the malaria-free Eastern Cape near Grahamstown, Kwandwe stretches for 42kms along the Great Fish River – an area not only known for its abundant natural beauty but also its rich history. During the Frontier Wars (1779 to 1878), the Great Fish River was a hotly contested border between the Xhosa nation, Dutch farmers and the 1820 settlers from England. This fascinating historic and cultural background provides a wonderful complement to Kwandwe’s exceptional safari experience. This is ‘Big Five’ territory – but the reserve is also a haven for birds – namely, South Africa’s rare and endangered national bird, the Blue Crane (Kwandwe aptly means ‘Place of the Blue Crane’ in Xhosa). Accommodation at Kwandwe comprises the exclusive Great Fish River Lodge, the historic and beautifully restored 3-bedroom Uplands Homestead – and the innovative ‘funkmeets- futuristic-farmhouse’ known as Ecca Lodge. Integrating local Xhosa culture with colonial and ‘Frontier’ settler history, the stylish décor of the Great Fish River Lodge (pictures 1-3) is characterised by a subtle blend of indigenous timber artefacts, works of art, antiques and earth-toned fabrics. Its nine elegant glass, stone and thatch-roof suites, which sit high up on the aloe-studded riverbank, boast floor-to-ceiling doors which open up to sweeping views. Each has a private plunge pool – and an expansive viewing deck. Delicious Pan-African cuisine is served either on your private deck, in the candle-lit dining room or in the boma (outdoor dining area). The main reception building, Heatherton Towers (a Frontier War-era fortified homestead complete with turrets), is a 40 minute drive from the lodge. By complete contrast, the fun and flamboyant Ecca Lodge (pictures 4 & 5), which is nestled into a gently sloping hillside, offers six suites with spectacular views. Fresh farm cuisine is served in the modern open-plan kitchen – and children are very welcome – in fact, the interpretive centre provides hours of entertainment for children of all ages (children under 6 years are not permitted on game drives). Ecca also has a gorgeous rim-flow lap pool. For exclusive-use only, Uplands Homestead (picture 6) a former 1905 farmhouse - is perfect for families or a group of up to six friends travelling together. It is located 30 minutes from the main reception building in a secluded valley – and has three spacious ensuite bedrooms, elegant living areas and a large swimming pool. Uplands’ guests not only benefit from exclusive use of their own safari vehicle with a dedicated ranger and tracker, but also their own private butler and chef. Game-drives, guided walks, fishing, rhino and buffalo tracking – and historic tours to nearby Grahamstown and the surrounding area, are all part of the unique Kwandwe experience. Other activities include Pioneer Cultural evenings and storytelling with Kwandwe’s resident historian. Kwandwe provides a natural conclusion to a Garden Route journey – it is easily accessible by road (approx 2 hours) from Port Elizabeth, either by hire car or chauffeur-driven transfer.
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PRICES
Prices for 3 nights at Great Fish River Lodge or Ecca Lodge from £1187 per person twin share – or 3 nights at Uplands from £819 per person (based on 6 people sharing) including all meals, game activities, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (local brands). Transfers from Port Elizabeth are additional.
Flights from the UK from £589 (including £120 tax) with South African Airways
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My Holidays: VIEWED
