Originally built in 1996, Phinda Vlei Lodge was well deserving of a soft refurb, a makeover on the inside, to make her feel shiny and new after over 20 years housing guests in her magnificent spot in Phinda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. We’ve seen the pictures, and it is clear that Vlei Lodge’s new look is nothing less than spectacular with local inspiration drawn from the pineapple and sugar cane industry that thrives in this tropical region of the country, and beautiful vintage touches evident in the bedroom and bathroom furnishings. It’s eclectically busy and inspiringly stylish, and we think it is the perfect upgrade to this old favourite.
The exclusive Phinda Reserve is located between the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetland Park, south of Umkhuze Reserve and right on Lake St. Lucia. It is surrounded by a mass of glisteningly rich vegetation in a tropical climate in one of the country’s oldest and most renowned wildlife regions. The reserve and properties in the andBeyond portfolio are known by reputation to offer world-class luxury in accommodation, safari activities, service, and style, and Vlei Lodge is no different. What makes it unique is its position between two habitats: the sand forest and the open vlei, or wetland. With the forest as a backdrop surrounding the lodge and the open marshy area in front of the lodge, there is plenty to admire, including the ever-passing animals that emerge from the forest to drink at the water’s edge.
The beauty of Phinda is that it incorporates both its terrestrial and marine surroundings in the activities it offers to guests; from tracking the protected black rhino on foot to scuba diving safaris to see the superb sea creatures that call this Indian Ocean coastline home. The cultural element of this rich and deeply tribal area of South Africa is shared through tours of the local Zulu village, while the traditional game-viewing side of safari is embraced through game drives and walking safaris.
The six exclusive guest suites are decorated with an eye-popping amalgamation of the new and old. Large tropical leaves appear beautifully on panels of wallpaper, while large mirrored wall faces provide depth and movement. Silver and crystal bring elegance and vintage, and high-backed chairs with rich fabrics, beds adorned with fine cotton, and gentle room lighting bring warmth and wealth to the wild setting of Vlei Lodge. We’re hooked on this new look and love knowing that classic lodges can be reborn after 20-something years and ignite a whole new sense of safari excitement!
