20th April, 2017 Mboyti River Lodge

We departed Coffee Bay having enjoyed breakfast overlooking the rolling waves.  Our trip from Coffee Bay proved a real challenge as we drove considerable distance across unmade and poor roads passing through several townships, where we felt uncomfortable.   

We were being guided via the instructions and GPS and this process was somewhat un-nerving as we were often on the D and P roads which are of varying quality. 

The scenery remained spectacular with hills and flowing undulating agricultural land and then regular villages dotting the hillside. 

We eventually arrived after approximately 4 and a half hours of difficult driving where we traverse every possible driving terrain in the BMW.  The entrance to the Hotel at Mboyti was itself a challenge, passing through 2 sets of security gates and elaborate inspections prior to being admitted to the hotel reception car park. 

The Lodge is about 50 years old with an interesting history and it being fully renovated. We are assisted with our luggage to our room.  Your breathe is taken away by the sheer beauty of the river mouth to our left flanked by stunning green fields and the local community and a slight move of the head gives stunning surf and golden sandy beaches.  Our room is a comfortable superior room with full glass windows on 2 sides.  These windows take in the full panorama of the river and ocean.

The room itself is also probably 35 years old, with a renovated appearance, but still a little old worldy. 

The hotel / lodge was an elite property at the time of the full revolution against apartheid and it was taken over and then allowed to go through a major period of disrepair as it was vandalised and left empty for more than 12 years. 

Subsequently sold to wealthy hoteliers who recognised the potential along this beautiful area, they have set about restoring it to its former beauty, wanting to retain the traditional character of the blocks of rooms, taking advantage of the view options, whilst modernising the hotel and restaurant infrastructure. Yet whilst this is progressing the entry through the local community does present challenges. 

We enjoyed 2 full days here largely relaxing and recuperating as we were very tired after the difficult driving of the last 4-5 days.  In addition, there was limited activities in the local area.  Many activities involved walking and horse riding or specialised fishing. 

The dining facilities were comfortable and the meals just excellent and on evening there was entertainment from one of the staff singing and playing guitar. 

All in all an enjoyable 2 days in beautiful scenery and comfortable accommodation.  But we wouldn't travel through the difficult roads and terrains. 

The photos reflect the beautiful environment and the stunning beaches. 

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