Temporarily Closed Until Further Notice.

For Upgrading and Renovations.

Lakenvlei Forest Lodge

This exotic, 4 star Forest Lodge lies in the middle of one of South Africa’s most popular  tourist attractions in the heart of Mpumalanga.

Lakenvlei Forest Lodge, the ultimate escape from city life, nestles amid a lush 4 500 ha pine forest estate, about 10 km north of Belfast on the Dullstroom Road in the Eastern Highlands (Drakensberg mountains) of Mpumalanga province.

This area is famous for its cool summers, frosty winters and of course, trout-filled streams and dams, for the ultimate fly fishing experience. It is an excellent “base” from which you can do daily out rides, tours, adventures to more than 9 of our  most beautiful waterfalls, the well know “God’s Window”, the Pinnacle, the Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Kaapche Hoop area with its wild horses!!

SETTING:

Lakenvlei’s thatched log chalets overlook a wetland area, which has been declared a Natural Heritage Site. Various birds, including rare species such as the Crowned crane, African jacana and Purple heron can be observed. Smaller mammals, like the Cape clawless otter, water mongoose, Black back-jackal and duiker, add to the charm of this delightful forest sanctuary.

THE MAIN LODGE

  • It is situated at the edge of the wetland, surrounded by reedbeds, pine forests and tranquil hills.

  • The chalets are in close proximity to the lodge, where you will find a country-styled restaurant, specializing in excellent country cuisine, as well as a cozy pub.
  • From the timber deck, guests can enjoy a sundowner, accompanied by a splendid view of the little islands and channels along the vlei, from where a symphony of birdsong emanate.

  • The deck is truly an ideal place to relax and drink in the spectacular African sunset!

THE CHALETS

  • There are twelve, self-catering luxury chalets, constructed from solid pine logs from the surrounding area. Beautifully furnished in comfortable cottage style, with a large open-hearth fireplace as focal point in the living area

  • The chalets are majestically constructed, using solid pine logs from the surrounding area and are finished to perfection with a fireproof thatch.

  • All the chalets are beautifully furnished in comfortable cottage style and fully equipped for self-catering.

  • The huge and cozy fireplace (with a generous supply of firewood) will make your stay feel ever so homely.

  • Luxuriously equipped and serviced daily, the self-catering chalets provide a peaceful haven for you to relax and unwind.

  • Each chalet has at least two mountain bikes for adventurous exploring, and a boat for rowing or fishing on the lake.

  • Mac Mac Forest Retreat (President Burger Hut)

Chalets Include:

4 x 8 BED CHALETS:

  • Two en-suite double bedrooms and an open plan loft, sleeping four people,

  • Serviced daily.

  • Fully equipped kitchen with stove, microwave etc

  • Each chalet is provided with linen, electric blankets, towels,

  • Ample firewood for the huge fire-place,

  • A boat for rowing or fishing.

4 x 4 BED CHALETS:

  • One double bedrooms and an open plan loft, sleeping two people,

  • Bathroom with bath tub, shower & toilet.

  • Serviced daily.

  • Fully equipped kitchen with stove, microwave etc

  • Each chalet is provided with linen, electric blankets, towels, ample firewood for the huge fire-place,

  • A boat for rowing or fishing.

Outdoor Activities:

Spending time outdoors will bring you into contact with most of the unique eco-systems in the area, including grasslands, rocky outcrops and the lush forest floor. There are several trail options, ranging from easy to difficult. There is something for every level of fitness or interest.

Fly fishing

The Dullstroom and Belfast areas are synonymous with fly fishing. Fly fishing for trout can be done from boats on the main dam and bass fishing from the shore of the separate bass dam. The main lake in front of the lodge is well stocked with large Rainbow trout and fly fishing is done from sturdy bass boats. The second lake is also stocked with Large-mouthed black bass, and fly- or lure fishing can be done from the jetties.  The bag limit is one fish per chalet per day or R80/kg.

Horse Riding

Experience the pristine beauty of Lakenvlei while horseback riding. Equestrian facilities include up-market stabling with morning and afternoon guided outrides. Special provision is made for novice, intermediate and advanced riders. Pony rides are available for children, as well as horse cart trips along the wetlands and through the forest, especially for the less energetic or more romantically inclined guests.

Bird Watching

Until now, more than 220 bird species have been recorded and the numbers are increasing. Bird lovers will find the wetlands especially rewarding, with the opportunity to tick off species not normally encountered. The bird hide on the edge of the bass dam provides the ideal opportunity to observe the water- and wetland bird species in their natural habitat. As mentioned, the wetland offers vast bird-watching opportunities, either on foot, by mountain bike or from the bird hide. A leisurely walk or cycle will also bring you in contact with species that frequent the grassland, rocky outcrops, forest floor and birds in the canopy habitats.Bird lists are available from the shop.

Bird Hide

Overlooking the wetland and lake, the bird hide provides an ideal opportunity to have a peak into the private lives of the abundance of water birds.

Tennis

Enjoy a game of tennis on our court with its unique forest setting. Bring your own equipment or rent from reception.

Hiking – Day trails

Several marked trails are laid out around the wetland and lakes. These trails range in distance and difficulty, from 4 – 12 km. Detailed Trail Maps available at reception.

Mountain Bike Trails

  • The 4 500 ha estate offers a vast array of possible routes by mountain bike. Guests are welcome to bring along their own mountain bikes. A limited number of small bikes are available for children.

  • Visitors can choose from self-catering, bed-and-breakfast and dinner-bed-and-breakfast rates

  • Inclusive as well as self-catering rates vary according to the number of people per chalet

  • Rates also vary between high- and low season.

  • Inclusive rates vary according to the number of persons as well as the type of chalet and can be obtained from our bookings offices.

Rates

Rates are subject to change without prior notice.

Rate Description Details
WEEKEND STAY Two nights stay is required on weekends
RATES Available on request, contact our office for more info and a rate list.
EXPERIENCE The estate offers a tranquil and unsurpassed experience in nature. A STUNNING VENUE FOR ALL ENTHUSIASTIC SPORT JUNKIES, HIKERS AND EVEN FOR THOSE WHO JUST WANT TO COME AND RELAX AND RECUPERATE FROM EVERYDAY STRESS.