DescriptionThe Lodge is built within the coastal forest just behind the forested dunes that occur along Maputaland's coastline. Accommodation is in 11 wooden tree-house chalets, which are raised on stilts into the forest canopy. Each twin-bedded room has its own private deck, en suite bathroom and an additional outdoor shower, for those who wish to bathe surrounded by trees. A boardwalk winds from the lodge, through the dune forest and down to the beach. Each chalet offers guests total seclusion, tranquility and time to relax and enjoy the surrounds of the forest. There is one family chalet with one main room, and a second room with two single beds. DININGIn the evening, snacks are enjoyed at the bar or around the fireplace where lively conversation of the day’s events, sightings and tall fisherman tales are told. Under a giant Natal Mahogany tree, traditional home made cuisine can be enjoyed, be it breakfast, lunch or the sociable dinners – often entertained by the thick-tailed bushbabies bouncing around the buffet. Using only the freshest ingredients, Rocktail caters for everyone’s dietary needs. THE FOREST DECKThe Lodge’s centre is where everyone can relax, eat, drink and swim. The lounge area is cosy, with comfortable couches, a laden bookshelf – just right to settle down with a book and a cup of coffee or tea – and delicious home-baked cake at teatime. Along a short path, past the fireplace, is the open bar area. Adjoining it is a wine cellar featuring top wines and spirits. Then there’s the curio or souvenir shop, with a variety of locally made goods as well as T-shirts and toy turtles are for sale.
Our personal opinionI have yet to find a more beautiful place than Rocktail Bay Lodge along the South African Coast, it’s remoteness, clean beach and atmosphere gave me a feeling like I was the only one there – I loved the rustic shelters under which you can retreat from the warm African Sun after a swim in the warn ocean, or did as I and after dinner, go out from the privacy of your log cabin on stilts onto the beach an enjoy a quiet bottle of bubbly under a star-filled sky! If your timing is right you could wake early enough to watch the moon set and sun set a little later… either way, this is a very romantic spot! Having said that, Rocktail Bay Lodge offers a variety of activities including diving and snorkelling; available all year round off pristine coral reefs as well as fly-fishing, swimming, horse riding, birding and cultural excursions to the surrounding community. I’m a girl who loves horses, so I thought the horse-ride along this part of wild beach and through tribal land was the most awesome outride I have ever experienced! The horses were in immaculate condition, the guide, informative, interesting and friendly and the sights, sounds and smell of the sea breeze contributed to the most amazing stay I have ever had!!AttractionsRocktail Bay's location allows for that rare combination of action, fun and relaxation, calling to mind the true family holiday. There are numerous activities to be enjoyed, from diving and snorkelling to guided walks and nature drives through the coastal forest and grasslands. Then there's still fishing, boating, and birding. But the beach and the endless crashing of the waves invites one to just sit back and enjoy or take a slow stroll. The camp's deck and swimming pool are also just right for lying back and dozing away the lazy, sunny afternoons. Finally there are community and conservation-based activities, from visits to the neighbouring community to nightly, seasonal Turtle Research drives.
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