New look for game reserve
An extensive rebuilding programme is set to transform the guest accommodation at Shamwari
Internationally renowned Eastern Cape private game reserve Shamwari has announced plans to rebuild, redesign and create three of its ultra-five-star lodges, with the building set to take two years to fully complete.
The project is part of the rebranding and repositioning of Shamwari in the safari marketplace as well as new culinary offerings specific to each of its showpiece lodges that have hosted international icons John Travolta and Tiger Woods.
Three of the six existing lodges will be completely recreated to offer guests an entirely new level of luxuryThe architectural design is by DSA Architects International, a South African company with branches in Johannesburg, Dubai and Lisbon, while interior decor and design is by K/M2K Architecture and Interior Design, based in Cape Town.
“We felt the time had come not simply to do extensive annual refurbishments of furniture and decor, but rather to redesign the lodges to elevate the guests’ offerings and comfort to absolute sheer safari luxury by means of extraordinary architectural, design and decor offerings,” group general manager Joe Cloete said. “We believe the hospitality industry is entering a new era in guest expectations and we hope to be leading this with four exceptional safari lodges coupled with our renowned, malaria-free, Big Five safari and walking experiences.”
A new animal rehabilitation centre will also be created and the famous Born Free centres will see a significant refurbishment to marry with the lodge improvements.Situated in the lush indigenous bush of the Shamwari Private Game Reserve, and with breath-taking views of the adjacent rocky cliff face where eagles soar, Eagles Crag Lodge is set to become an even more sophisticated safari experience.
It will make efficient use of this idyllic site with its spectacular views while also providing the utmost privacy.
The architects have designed a spacious entrance and reception area looking directly onto the vegetation and majestic cliff face. On the upper level, the guest dining room and lounge will open through large doorways onto a wraparound veranda with individual “dining pods” overlooking the cliff. On the lower level, guests who like to stay active will be able to enjoy a fitness centre and an entertainment lounge.
Nine luxurious guest villas, each with its own sun deck and heated plunge pool, are discreetly placed in the surrounding bush.The intimate spa complements the lodge offerings. Eagles Crag is currently closed to guests until September in order for the work to be completed.
Riverdene Family Lodge is Shamwari’s exclusive family African destination, offering a sense of style and comfort in a secure environment. Designed in an African modern farm style synonymous with the Cape region, its simple forms and pitched roofs will offer unique accommodation and a chance for every member of the family to become involved in activities.
Nine inter-leading rooms will all have elegant bathrooms and magnificent views over the bush, while the lofty lounge, bar and dining room will open on to the infinity edge pool and sun decks.
The Kids on Safari Adventure Centre will complement the facilities with an extensive modern playground offering an array of activities so children are able to play in a safe and supervised environment.
There will also be a toddler play area and adventure zone. Proposed activities will include a swing bridge, climbing wall, timber tunnel and zip line.Riverdene will re-open to guests on September 14.
Shamwari’s iconic Long Lee Manor faithfully and elegantly reflects a bygone era. Though it will retain its original facade, a new arrival courtyard and porch will create a grand entrance to the historical manor house offering direct views of the vast Eastern Cape plains and wildlife.A new reception area and lounges will also be created along with a dining room situated within the gardens. This will be complemented by spacious verandas, with a nearby bar pavilion and infinity edge pool also offering unique vistas.
A wellness centre as well as a teen entertainment and gaming room are also on the cards. These will be created around a landscaped courtyard.
Guests will be accommodated in 18 spacious guest suites, all with elegant, colonial-themed interiors. The Barn, which is used for meetings and conferences, will also receive a new look and feel, and offer state-of-the-art equipment for delegates. Health conscious guests will be able to take advantage of a new fitness centre.
Long Lee will close on November 1 in order for the work to start and it will re-open on December 1 next year. By then it will be more than ready to show off its new-look luxury presidential suite and 17 guest suites, including an impressive honeymoon suite, as well as a well-equipped interleading suite with universal access.Extensive landscaping will complement Long Lee’s new contemporary colonial look.
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