If you’re looking for country hospitality, Lythwood Lodge is a winner. The staff were friendly, attentive and helpful and the rooms more than comfortable, without that institutional hotel-like feel I dislike so much.
At reception there was an array of brollies and wellies, so we took the hint and went for a walk, joined by some of the lodge’s “children” – their much-loved dogs.
On our return, it was time for pre-dinner drinks, with which we retired to one of the lounges adjoining the little library.
A heater was brought in (without us asking) and the light dimmed just a tad. Background music played so softly we could just about whisper to each other and still hear. Then off to a sumptuous dinner. Breakfast the next morning was just as grand.
So what is there to do in the middle of the Midlands, you might wonder? Well, other than exploring all on offer on the famous Midlands Meander, Lythwood offers many other attractions. For the more adventurous, the lodge can organise day trips (eight hours each) to Sani Pass or the battlefields with suitable guides.
If you want to relax and indulge, the hotel spa is a must.
Lythwood also offers wedding and conference packages.
The lodge has its own chapel and the wedding venue is cleverly kept elegant and simple so as not to overpower the decor desires of bridal couples. The venue organises just about everything – from menu and bar to photographer and flowers.
It is also great for conferencing with all the necessary facilities and various break-away rooms. For entertainment, staff can organise talks by experts on a range of subjects from medicinal herbs to skin care, wine and whisky-tasting sessions, a game of croquet, trout fishing, hot-air balloon trips, golf, night-time laser shooting, as well as hovercrafting and quad-biking sessions.
Sunday lunches are not to be missed, nor are the Wednesday and Thursday afternoon Victorian high teas – so even if you are not staying over, you might like to pop in and enjoy a great meal.
Other than the rooms and cottages available, Lythwood also offers self-catering accommodation and can arrange pick-ups and drop-offs from Durban and Pietermaritzburg
Not far from Midmar Dam, Curry’s Post, Nelson Mandela’s capture sight and the Karkloof Canopy Tour, Lythwood is a great Midlands base.
So next time you hit the road, why not slow down and take time out to spoil yourself? I know I will.
For more information, contact 033 234 4666/7 or go to www.lythwoodlodge.co.za - The Mercury