The Island River Lodge has an expansive Rhodesian Teak decking area housing a sparkling swimming pool, boma area and various lookout points boasting sweeping views over the river.
The Island River Lodge is constructed from wood and canvas, giving it a river cabin and bushveld atmosphere. An elevated Rhodesian Teak balcony in the main area is surrounded by 200 - 300 year old indigenous trees, and houses a swimming pool and boma area under the trees. The braai and dining area are also located on the expansive deck utilised by guests opting for the catered option during their stay.
This lodge is a birding paradise. Trumpeter hornbills, Pel’s fishingowl and kingfishers are just a few of the species to spot while enjoying the sweeping views of the river below from the viewing deck, boma and swimming pool area.
Accommodation comprises two communal areas to meet specific culinary requirements (catered or self-catered); and uniquely designed tents and chalets for the same purpose. Each accommodation option has either mountain or river views, and decor throughout the rooms and lodge contains natural finishings complimenting the surrounding bush.
In terms of activities, there are plenty of options to explore nearby tourist attractions either on a self drive basis or pre-booking an excursion. Guests who want to enjoy solitude at the lodge can indulge in one of the many walks around the 8 hectare property. There are numerous paths along the banks of the riverfront and even sundowners in secluded romantic spots.
The Island River Lodge is situated on a private island surrounded by the Blyde River, 15km outside the town of Hoedspruit in the big five area of the Limpopo Province.
Situated on a private island in the middle of the Blyde River, enveloped by large indigenous trees and dense vegetation, is a remarkable oasis called The Island River Lodge.
This unique eden offers the discerning traveler the perfect combination of wild virgin bushveld and riverine water paradise, and is accessed via a causeway, which has only recently been built.
It’s raw, wild and untouched! The closest town to The Island River Lodge is Hoedspruit which is an easy five hour drive from Johannesburg/OR Tambo International Airport.
Should guests choose to fly in, Eastgate Airport is located 15 km from Hoedspruit. Rental vehicles are available at the airport.
From Johannesburg :
Take the N4 towards Nelspruit, take the Belfast turning and follow sign posts for Dullstrom/Lydenburgh. Once you reach Lydenburgh follow the sign posts towards Tzaneen/Origstadt and once you get to the Tzaneen (R90) turning continue straight onto the R527 for 17.5km. You will then come to the R531 on your right, follow this for 400m, turn right on to dirt road sign posted for Blyde Mountain Country House. Once at the first gate, turn immediately left down the farm road for 500m until you reach a turning on the right, this is the causeway entry to our lodge.
From Hoedspruit/Eastgate Airport :
Exit the Eastgate Airport and turn right on the tar road. At the T-junction, turn right on the R40 towards Hoedspruit. At the second intersection, turn left on the R527. After 15km, turn left onto the R531. After 400 metres, turn right at the entrance to Blyde Mountain Country House. Once through the gate, immediately turn left, follow the dirt track for 500 metres until a turning to the right – this is the causeway to the lodge.
African Retreats conducts the marketing and reservations for a portfolio of safari lodges based in South Africa's esteemed Kruger Lowveld. These carefully selected safari properties occupy enviable locations in the Greater Kruger Park area, some with astounding riverfront views and others nestled comfortably in game reserves surrounded by the tranquility of nature. African Retreats sews together itineraries incorporating South Africa's most sought after destinations including the Kruger National Park, Kruger and Canyon boat cruises, Panorama Route tours, hot-air ballooning and wildlife activities (game drives and bush walks) within private game reserves. The focus here is on experiencing the Kruger region in its entirety while staying in accommodation surrounded by the bushveld.
