Going away for the weekend is usually a negotiation between myself and my partner who prefers to be out in nature, surrounded by all kinds of bugs and sleeping in a cold, damp and uncomfortable tent. Camping has never been my idea of a getaway, so when we found out about Thali Thali Game Lodge I was extremely excited. Why, you may ask? Well, my partner gets his tent, and I get the luxury of a B&B. Introducing glamping, SA-style.
West Coast beauty…
Thali Thali is situated just off the R27, near the well-known town of Langebaan. The West Coast, in all its beauty, has a certain charm that’s unlike any other area within the Cape. Thali Thali is made up of 1,460ha and is home to animals such as ostrich, steenbok, caracal, camel, eland, zebra and giraffe, to name but a few, along with hundreds of indigenous fynbos species.
Sounds of nature…
Upon arrival we were warmly welcomed by owner, Amalia, with two glasses of sparkling Sauvignon Blanc. Sitting on the deck of the lodge restaurant, you are instantly mesmerised by its natural surroundings. There is not a sound to be heard but the chirping of birds and the occasional moo of a herd of cows.
Paradise gained…
From there we were taken to our luxury tent. The en-suite bathroom has a gorgeous cobble-stone exterior and the interior of the tent is humble and exquisite, equipped with a double bed, cupboard, sleeper couch, a few kitchen amenities and even a little chandelier. The plan for our first night was to make a fire and have a good old-fashioned braai. While we were enjoying the sunset, a little springbok wondered around our tent, and in the morning, while drinking my cup of coffee, a herd of wildebeest ran from the horizon toward the cows on the further end of the farm. An experience that no words can do justice.
Let the game begin!
Our second day was one we were both excited for, as this is when we would going on our first game drive. From seeing the gorgeous spring flowers in bloom, to watching giraffe graze on the fynbos, we found the game drive thoroughly enjoyable and the guides highly informative.
When dawn broke on Sunday, it was bittersweet. The hazy dawn coupled with joyous birdsong made me sad to have to say goodbye. Visiting Thali Thali reignited my love for nature and I cannot wait to return to try a few more of the activities on offer.
082 372 8637
Words: Lauren Joubert | Images: Supplied
