Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve – Western Cape, SOUTH AFRICA
After my recent stay at the Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve from The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, here’s my review. Whether you need a break away in nature, a pampering in a luxury spa, delicious culinary experiences, rest, outdoor adventurous activities, a romantic place to propose or historical cultural experiences viewing one of many Khoi San rock art sites, Bushmans Kloof has it all.
By Janet-Lynn Vorster, Cape Town, South Africa
On a beautiful Autumn day, I was picked up at Twelve Apostles Hotel in Cape Town and shuttled to Bushmans Kloof, just over three hours away via the N7. I was warmly greeted by all the staff and refreshed with iced tea and a wet face towel.
The beautiful deluxe room, Masson, would be mine exclusively for the next two days. “A multitude of simple pleasures and extraordinary experiences” is how Bushmans Kloof is described. “Comfort, beauty and luxury”. I agree whole-heartedly!
Makana, a thatched open-air restaurant was the setting for the daily high tea. What a beautiful spread fit for a queen, complete with cucumber sandwiches.
On my first evening game drive, far from the city, I vowed to be fully present and enjoy every moment. The guides were super friendly and knowledgeable, and the land rovers well equipped with warm, waterproofed ponchos. The chill set in as dusk descended while enjoying sundowners at the open-air boma.
Back in my room, I unpacked into a large, heavy wooden wardrobe and noticed the imposing chest of drawers against the opposite wall. Had I come with a partner and packed for a long stay, packing space would have been ample! Carved wooden walking sticks, umbrellas, yoga mats and a hairdryer added thoughtful touches.
The tranquil bathroom was adorned with delightful toiletries from their signature range, a scented candle and fragrant oils in a burner.
This deluxe room had everything I needed. I read the story of Bushmans Kloof and all the information provided, including the expected temperatures, precipitation and wind speed and direction for the next few days.
I barely noticed the satellite TV, DVD/CD player or iPod docking station as I was magnetically drawn to the paintbrushes, watercolours and paper provided on the table beneath.
The fridge was well stocked. A variety of teas, coffees and snacks, a kettle and Nespresso machine completed the picture.
Pre-dinner drinks were followed by an exquisite four-course dinner. On both evenings. I was joined by Joanne from Tumbleweed Communications (PR and media liaison), journalists, editors, manager Rory and director and owner Michael Tollman. Rika from Cape Nature chatted to us about the conservation at Bushmans Kloof. Executive chef Charles and his team are brilliant, with a little help from the Josper oven.
Back in my room, bedside lamps on, slippers, robe and a snack waiting for me, I received a bedtime story called “The Bird’s Great Race”. On night two my bedtime story was titled “The Ghost of Oupoort”. Below the story, Bushmans Kloof team wished me good night. I fell asleep on both nights, literally purring in total bliss.
A lovely hot shower and blissfully comfortable bed completed my first day. On day two, I relaxed for about an hour in a steaming hot bath, the aroma of bath salts swirling around me.
Breakfast daily was a buffet feast and/or traditional English breakfast.
En-route to the annual Ceder Tree Event in the mountains on the Saturday, Koro Lodge was pointed out. This private lodge is for families with children, or groups of friends, and comes with a private chef.
An opportunity to join a new-found friend, Carol, presented itself on night two. She showed me amazing photos of the buffet she had the previous night at Kadoro, originally a shepherd’s hut, with rustic farm-style décor and many, many burning candles. Bushmans Kloof has a variety of fabulous options and settings for dinners, picnics and more.
A self-confessed spa junkie, Carol told me her experience at the spa was exquisite. She rated Nikki’s massage as one of the Top 5 in the world. Her resulting iridescent glow and calmness did not go unnoticed.
The heavy drapes and blinds in front of the windows do a splendid job of keeping the light out should you wish to sleep in.
Whether you need a break away in nature, a pampering in a luxury spa, delicious culinary experiences, rest, outdoor adventurous activities, a romantic place to propose or historical cultural experiences viewing one of many Khoi San rock art sites, Bushmans Kloof has it all.
Bushmans Kloof, you may wear your five stars with pride.
Disclaimer: My stay at the Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat was fully sponsored by the Retreat in return for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not dictated by the Retreat or any of its affiliates.
FOR RESERVATIONS:
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve
The Red Carnation Hotel Collection
reservations@bushmanskloof.co.za
Clanwilliam, Cederberg Mountains, Western Cape, 7200, South Africa.
Tel local: 0437 9278
Tel Intl: +27 21 437 9278
Or book via one of your favourite hotel booking websites: booking.com, agoda.com, hotels.com, tripadvisor.com, and other fine booking sites.
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THIS REVIEW APPEARS IN
Globerovers Magazine July 2018