Thornwood

Location: Kuleni Game Park, R22 Sodwana Road, KwaNibela, za

Star Rating: 9.4 Stars

Property Type: Villas

About this Property

Important Information

Policies

Check-in: 02:30 PM - 08:00 PM

Check-out: 10:00 AM

Amenities & Facilities

• Offsite parking discounted rates available
• Parking
• Non-smoking rooms
• Air conditioning
• Terrace
• Family rooms
• BBQ facilities
• Safety deposit box
• Fax/photocopying
• Tour desk
• Ironing service
• Massage services
• Shared lounge/TV area
• Board games/puzzles
• Grocery deliveries
• Outdoor furniture
• Staff adhere to local safety protocols
• Guest rooms disinfected between stays
• Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
• Fire extinguishers
• Invoice provided
• Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
• Shared stationery like menus, pens are removed
• Access to health care professionals
• 24-hour security
• Billiards or pool table
• Free wired internet
• Scuba diving on site
• Snorkeling on site
• Self parking (surcharge)
• Pool sun loungers
• Offsite parking discounted rates available
• Game drive nearby
• Internet access
• Games
• Housekeeping on request
• Pool waterfall
• Exercise/lap pool
• Japanese garden
• Secured parking
• Golf cart
• Fishing nearby
• Swimming nearby
• Charcoal grill

Rooms Available

• Three-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool

  This spacious lodge-style villa offers a private pool and a fully equipped kitchen, which opens up onto a large deck with a fire-pit. Two of the bedrooms with attached bathroom are located inside the villa, while the other 1 bedroom with attached bathroom is detached but linked to the villa via short walkways. All rooms have and additional outdoor shower and are fitted with air conditioning and ceiling fans. Thornwood can accommodate 6 guests, however we do have extra mattresses and stretchers. Max occupancy 8 Over and above will be charged R 750 per day per extra guests.

  Max Occupancy: 6 (6 Adults)

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Shower
  • TV
  • Air conditioning
  • Hair dryer
  • Refrigerator
  • Desk
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Microwave
  • Dishwasher
  • Washing machine
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Dressing room
  • Satellite channels
  • Kitchen
  • Additional toilet
  • Private entrance
  • Sofa
  • Hardwood or parquet floors
  • Dining area
  • Electric kettle
  • Mosquito net
  • Private pool
  • Tumble dryer
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Oven
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Barbecue
  • Additional bathroom
  • Coffee machine
  • Terrace
  • Linen
  • Dining table
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Clothes rack
  • Drying rack for clothing
  • Toilet paper
  • Board games/puzzles
  • Plunge pool
  • Pool towels
  • Shallow end
  • Trash cans
  • Wine glasses
  • Cots
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body soap
  • Socket near the bed
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher

Guest Reviews

• Dave (6/5): -
• Ashley (9/5): Lovely - Stunning location and the property was beautiful
• Erin (10/5): The best self catering bush experience I have had so far. - Every single thing. It far exceeded all my and my two friends' expectations. It truly feels like a Robinson Crusoe style tree house combined with an extremely luxurious African bush lodge. I spent two years working as an antipoacher where I lived in the bush and this felt as immersive but with all the luxuries I could have imagined and more. The animal life is truly spectacular from the massive Nyalas grazing 15 meters away from you to the little gennet cat that lies on the deck at night. I have stayed at a lot of self catering accommodations across South Africa and thus far Thornwood has been the best. I highly highly recommend Thornwood to any foreigners looking for an immersive and luxurious bush experience. Thank you Nadia and Angel, we will be back as soon as we possibly can. There was nothing we didn't like. Everything was perfect.
• Rob and Joanne Taylor (9/5): - Loved our stay in Thornwood Lodge and enjoyed walking around Kuleni encountering wildlife and plenty of birds. Angel was extremely helpful and friendly.
• M.Vliegen (10/5): Prachtige woning met veel privacy - Mooie woning Goed gefaciliteerde keuken Pooltafel was top Er staat dat er een wasmachine is, maar dit is een wasservice waaraan kosten zijn verbonden Dit misschien als zodanig omschrijven bij de faciliteiten
• Kelly (8/5): -
• Michael (10/5): -
• Yolanda (10/5): Thornwood - Beautiful setting and accommodation was top class!
• Perrnashka (10/5): - We enjoyed everything 🙌 comfortable and relaxing. Abit far from the shops.
• Ryan (10/5): ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A hidden gem in the heart of nature Thornwood is an absolute hidden gem. The property is stunning, beautiful - • Stunning property with beautifully finished interiors • Hidden‑gem feel, peaceful and private • Spacious, very clean, and comfortable rooms • Warm, attentive service from Lizelle, who arranged guided game drives and packed a wonderful breakfast • Angel kept everything spotless and added to the welcoming atmosphere • Magical setting inside the Kuleni Reserve with giraffe and zebra wandering nearby • Lovely facilities, with the pool being a big hit with the kids • Exceptional service — the team even arranged for forgotten items to be returned • Great nearby restaurant, Delishh, worth visiting
• Kelly (10/5): Amazing stay, beautiful piece of African bush x - Amazing property and Angel looked after us really well Would highly recommend and easy to organise game drives and activities through farm manager xx Could do with a few bug catchers
• Donna (10/5): Amazing but too short - Beautiful property with attention to detail. We loved the setting and the animals.
• Vera (10/5): Unser Aufenthalt in der Thornwood Bush Lodge war für uns das Highlight unserer Südafrikareise! - Durch den Kontakt mit Nadia, der Gastgeberin, über WhatsApp, war die Schlüsselübrergabe bzw. der Empfang unkompliziert und angenehm. Den Code für das Tor zum Kuleni-Park haben wir per E-Mail erhalten. Nadia hat uns dann beim Parkplatz willkommen geheissen und uns alles gezeigt. Diese stilvolle und saubere Unterkunft übertraf alle unsere Erwartungen und war mit Abstand das Beste, was wir bisher auf unserer Südafrikareise erlebt haben! Eine ganze Lodge für uns alleine zu haben, wunderschön eingerichtet, inmitten der Natur, mit eigenem Pool – einfach fantastisch. An das tägliche Outdoor-Duschen hätten wir uns gewöhnen können 😊. Gerne wären wir länger als nur zwei Nächte geblieben. Das nahe, stylische Restaurant Delishh inkl. Delikatessenladen, welcher bis 20 Uhr geöffnet hat, hatten wir in seiner Vielfalt zu spät entdeckt. Ein idealer Ort, um sich mit Lebensmitteln einzudecken oder mit einem Take-away-Menu, um dieses im wundervollen Ambiente der Lodge zu geniessen. Wenn man mehr braucht, kann man sich in der Metzgerei in Hluhluwe (Samstag ab 13h und Sonntags allerdings geschlossen) mit Fleischwaren eindecken oder das Wichtigste an Lebensmitteln im Super Spar in Hluhluwe einkaufen (ca. 20 Min. von der Lodge entfernt). Der Billardtisch war für unsere Familie ein weiteres Highlight und bereicherte unsere Abende. Wer möchte, findet auch einen TV mit Netflix etc. – die Lodge lässt keine Wünsche offen. Unsere Wäsche konnten wir für 60 Rand in Windeseile machen lassen – danke Angel dafür. Wir planen fest, wiederzukommen. Nadia ist eine wundervolle Gastgeberin. Die eine Matratze war etwas durchgelegen bzw. unbequem. Der Dampfabzug in der Küche hätte für unseren Geschmack etwas sauberer sein dürfen. Das Küchenmaterial jedoch war sehr umfassend und es hat uns an nichts gefehlt. Evtl. hätte es geholfen, zu wissen, dass auch Salz/Pfeffer/Zucker/Haushaltpapier nicht vorhanden sind, also gewisse Küchenbasics. So hätten wir bei der Anreise den Ersteinkauf besser planen können.
• Martijn (10/5): Amazing stay! - The location of the lodge is amazing! The lodge is completely in the woods. The lodge and the rooms look amazing. Being in the rooms really gives you the feeling you're in the wild. The facilities are good and the staff is amazing. The staff was really helpful and are willing to help even in the evening.
• Björn (10/5): Wunderschöner Aufenthalt in kleinem Paradies - Das war nach 2016 unser zweite Aufenthalt in Thornwood. Seit ein paar Jahren ist Nadia die Gastgeberin und sie hat diesen wunderschönen Ort sogar noch verbessert! Wir wurden von ihr persönlich mit einem selbstgemachten Fruchtsaft empfangen und durch die Anlage geführt. Alles wurde ausführlich erklärt und Nadia stand während unseres Aufenthaltes bei Fragen immer zur Verfügung. Unterstützt durch die Haushälterin Angel wurde auf jeden unserer Wünsche liebevoll eingegangen. Thornwood ist ein kleines Paradies und im schönen Kuleni Gamepark gelegen, den man auch selbst zu Fuß erkunden kann. Die Villa selbst ist geschmackvoll eingerichtet, wunderschön dekoriert (mit qualitativ hochwertigen Möbeln, Kissen, Decken, usw. - was man selbst für sich zu Haus kaufen würde) und mit allem ausgestattet, was man für einen tollen Aufenthalt benötigt. Alles ist wie auf den Fotos zu sehen, auch wirklich so vorhanden (und der Billardtisch ein Highlight!). Jedes Schlafzimmer hat seines eigenes Bad, mit toller Außendusche, Klimaanlage, Mückennetze, usw. Die Villa verfügt sogar über eine Backup-Batterie, falls es zu einem Stromausfall kommen sollte (was bei uns nicht der Fall war, aber durchaus in Südafrika passieren kann). Es git einen tollen Platz für Braai, aber auch einen großen Gasgrill und eine sehr gut ausgestattete Küche - alles vom Feinsten. Und wer nicht selber kochen möchte: Mehrere gute Restaurant in der Nähe. So liegt direkt am Eingang zum Kuleni Wildpark ein sehr empfehlenswertes Restaurant mit angeschlossener Destillerie und einem kleinen Goumet-Laden, der hochfertiges Fleisch zum Grillen verkauft. In der Umgebung befindet sich St. Lucia, Hluhluwe, iSimangaliso Wetland Park und viele andere sehenswerte Orte - man kann viele Tage in Thornwood verbringen, ohne sich zu langweilen. Wir werden wiederkommen! Uns hat alles sehr gut gefallen!
• Jetaime (10/5): Best Stay Ever – A Perfect Summer Getaway!" This was the best ever! The facilities were fantastic and the host was -
• Lloyd (8/5): -
• dorinda (8/5): prachtig ruim huis met veel privacy - Prachtig ruim huis! Veel privacy, een winkel met shirts en souvenirs IN het huis. Superruime keuken met 2 koelkasten. Echt top. Angel kwam de sleutel afgeven en kwam met warme frisse doekjes toen we arriveerden na de reis. Diverse zitplekken. Goede bedden en een buitendouche. Dichtbij zit de Croc en zule restaurant. 2x goed gegeten en op een regenachtige dag ook geschilderd en minigolf gedaan met de kinderen. Het huis zou een afwasmachine en wasmachine hebben. Die mocht je echter niet gebruiken. We hebben dus alles met de hand afgewassen. We hadden angel kunnen laten komen maar we houden van onze privacy en waren veel thuis dus hadden we haar van te voren vrijaf gegeven. We zagen pas later dat we de wasmachine dan niet mochten gebruiken. Dat had wel van te voren aangekondigd mogen worden. We hebben in de tuin alleen hoenders en duikers gezien, terwijl we er 4 dagen zaten. We hadden al het eten goed opgeborgen muv een fruitschaal op de aanrecht: een dier heeft 's nachts een mandarijn gepeld en gepoept op de aanrecht (wrs was dat een bushbaby). Geen probleem maar wel iets om alert op te zijn. Ook de eekhoorns zaten continue binnen. Het huis is op het oog schoon maar niet volgens de Nederlandse standaarden (ik zou mijn afwas niet eens in de machine hebben willen zetten). Een extra sopje hier en daar kan geen kwaad.
• Carsten (9/5): Extravagantes Buschhaus mitten im Busch - Ein schönes, extravagantes und gemütliches Buschhaus. Wir wurden von Nadia sehr herzlich mit warmen Handtüchern begrüßt und erhielten eine Hausführung. Die Hausdame Angel hat täglich die Reinigung - auch von Geschirr - übernommen. Darüber hinaus hat sie die Wäsche für uns erledigt. Für eine Waschmaschine voll hat sie 100 Rand erhalten. Wir waren einmal im Park spazieren. Leider liefen uns nur Impalas über den Weg. Dafür sind durch unseren Garten einige Tiere gelaufen. Der Billardtisch war ein Higlight sowie die Dusche draußen. Die Küche war ein wenig abgerockt. Als Familie waren die weitauseinanderliegenden Schlafzimmer nicht so angenehm. An den offenen Wohnbereich mussten wir uns erst einmal gewöhnen.
• Johannes J (8/5): -
• Florence (10/5): - Tout était bien. Dommage que nous n'avions pas assez de temps pour profiter de tous ces conforts et équipements mis à disposition.
• Maureen (9/5): Another Lovely stay at Thornwood June 27-29th 2025 - Thornwood is a lovely, family-friendly home. Private, quiet, and spacious. This was our second visit, and we enjoy being there as a family. Nadia is a charming host, and the housekeeper is excellent. Thank you, Thornwood, for another wonderful stay! Not a complaint, This weekend was perhaps just colder than usual, but we could have done with a few thick blankets, or an electric blanket on the beds :)
• Pillay (9/5): Superb -
• Jurie (10/5): Wow! - The details! Everything was exceptional. It was luxurious, yet had a distinct African safari feel. As a European, you will absolutely go bananas over this place. The amenities were great. A well working gas bbq, an ice maker, pleanty fridge/freezer space, a pool table, wifi/dstv. The place was super spacious. The outside showers were a hit (great water pressure and nice and hot). The inside baths were deep and large (exceptionally romantic. The cleaning lady was such a massive bonus. It meant we could maximise our time, relax, and enjoy the spectacular scenery to the fullest. Nadia (the host) is an absolute legend. She takes great pride in Thornwood and it was such a treat to get to know her a bit. What a treat! The road leading to Thornwood (within Kuleni) is not meant for sedans/low vehicles. I mean, it can be done, but not a good idea.
• Michael (10/5): Exceptional -
• David (10/5): Absolute out of this world!!! - So peaceful, all the facilities for a relaxing, peaceful getaway in the bush. You have got to experience it to believe it. We booked for three nights but stayed for an extra two and would have stayed even longer if not for work commitments. Away from the hustle & bustle of the city but close enough to good restaurants and so many outdoor activities. Had an absolutely amazing day self-driving in the Hluhluwe National Park. Can’t speak highly enough of this lodge. N/A
• Victoria (5/5): Great location but tired facilities. - Comfy beds Reserve staff especially helpful when car stuck in the mud. Some issues with the toilet plumbing and electricity in the outside bedroom, mosquito nets didn’t go round the beds when made into doubles and no net provided for the cot.
• Jolinda (9/5): Superb - The house and location is amazing. The host is also lovely.
• Juliette (10/5): A MUST stay at a very SPECIAL place! We will be back! - This is a SPECIAL place!!! Wow, this place has everything you need for a relaxing time as a home away from home but with the bush stillness as the backdrop! Ok so a few things we MUST mention that makes this place so special: - The kitchen is very well stocked with every utensil or item you could possibly need. We even baked up a lemon meringue while we were there without any problems! - All the furniture/equipment/appliances are of high quality. This does NOT feel like an old and tired house or an old holiday home with bare essentials. Everything is quality that you would spend money on for your own home from the linen, the pillows, the napkins, the towels, the rugs, the couches, air con in bedrooms, beautifully presented beds with lovely draped mosquito nets, etc etc etc. It’s all the little details that just made this place so comfortable. It felt far more luxurious than the 4 star catered lodge that we stayed in the nights before our stay. - Nadia (owner) and Angel (house keeper) are amazing and so accommodating. They were always available but by no means intrusive. Such wonderful smiles and introductions, the perfect hosts! - the bathrooms! Great water pressure in the (amazing) outdoor showers, baths with wonderful views and privacy. Nothing beats the bush experience of a steamy hot shower in fresh air with the green bush around you! - the large living area! Open and airy! Couches, dstv, board games, books, deck and pool with pool loungers, firepit, gas braai, pool table, fans! This place caters for groups very well with different areas to congregate around but still has smaller areas for quiet time. Larger groups will by no means feel cramped at all. It would have helped to have the basics like tea, coffee, sugar, salt and pepper in the kitchen. Otherwise we can’t fault it!
• Lizanne (10/5): Exceptional - Stunning, picturesque, tranquil property, superb hosting and service. We had an absolutely wonderful stay. Highest recommendation for those looking to stay here. N/A
• Mike (10/5): Truly a holiday of a lifetime! - From the time we arrived and greeted with cold flannels after our long journey until we had to leave, we were looked after so well by Nadia and Angel. Their attentiveness and ease with the way they made sure we had an amazing stay was one in a million! The lodge well situated, secluded and well appointed, the facilities were very well maintained and Angel came every morning to ensure everything was to our satisfaction. Having giraffes, zebras, water buffalo, impala, bush babies on our doorstep was the icing on the cake. Nothing, everything exceeded our expections and would definitely stay again given the chance.
• Chrisanne (9/5): Superb -
• Brandon (10/5): Exceptional -
• Bisini (10/5): Exceptional - *Our Family's Wonderful Experience at Thornwood Bush Lodge* We recently had the pleasure of staying at Thornwood Bush Lodge in South Africa, and it was truly an unforgettable experience for my family and me. From the moment we arrived, we felt like we were coming back home, thanks to the warm hospitality of Nadia, who made us feel so welcome. The lodge itself is nestled in a beautiful setting, offering the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility. Our rooms were incredibly comfortable and clean, with all the amenities we needed for a relaxing stay. The self-catering facilities were fully equipped, allowing us to enjoy family meals together in the privacy of our own space. What struck us most was the serene ambiance of the lodge. Surrounded by the African bush, we experienced absolute calm and tranquility, which was exactly what we needed to unwind and reconnect with nature. The lodge's location allowed us to explore the surrounding area easily, and we enjoyed taking self-guided walks through the bush, spotting local wildlife, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Nadia's hosting was exceptional, making sure we had everything we needed and more. Her warmth and care made our stay feel truly special. We highly recommend Thornwood Bush Lodge to anyone looking for a luxurious yet peaceful retreat in the heart of South Africa's natural beauty. It was a truly wonderful experience for us, and we look forward to returning someday. Nothing
• Sarah (10/5): Luxury bush villa - Incredible location; super facilities and very helpful host! What an amazing place to spend some R&R time. Wish we had booked for a longer stay to make more use of all the facilities and beautiful surroundings. We will come back!! N/a
• Giselle (10/5): From the minute you arrive you know you are in good hands with Nadia there to greet you. The accommodation is just beaut - The property is beautifully decorated with modern luxury touches but with an overall bush outdoor aesthetic. The self catering kitchen includes everything you could need and more!
• Alfred (9/5): Lovely time in a beautiful cottage in the bush - Beautiful property with everything that was needed to make our stay very pleasant Nothing
• Lori (9/5): we needed a cool bush house to chill after our friends landed from the States. It was perfect- ! - the setting was so lovely- completely private and loved the "open air" quality of the house. Plenty of space for everyone to gather, yet have privacy. Angel was a lovely welcoming person! Great communication from Nadia, the owner. the kitchen floor was rather slippery- we brought in a rug from one of the bedrooms. The A/C in the bedroom facing the pool was very loud the one night. The pool table que's need replacing. Otherwise no complaints!
• Maureen (9/5): Thornwood, Hluhluwe - It's such a lovely place to stay. We traveled to attend a wedding, so our time at Thornwood was far too short. We will be back for a more extended stay next time, so we can relax and enjoy the home. Really well provided for, great attention to detail. Lovely staff at Thornwood and Nadia, our hostess, were very accommodating. Thank you! No negatives for us.
• Michael (10/5): Exceptional - If paradise had an address, it would be this place! From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by Nadia, the most gracious host, who welcomed us with a refreshing cold wet towel – such a thoughtful touch after our journey. Every detail of this place is sheer perfection. It’s rare to find a place where everything exceeds expectations, but this was truly the most beautiful and memorable stay we’ve ever had. Highly recommended! nothing
• Gontse (10/5): Excellent place with very good staff. The place is very clean, equipped and with serene atmosphere. - Excellent place with very good staff. The place is very clean, equipped and with serene atmosphere.
• Eric (10/5): Lovely visit at Thornwood - Lovely property right in the Kuleni Reserve. Nadia was a perfect host, always attentive and willing to help. The layout is partly open and so brought the outdoors in. The bedrooms were all spacious and the whole place was beautifully appointed. Oh, and the Nyala and Duikers came right up onto the watering hole for a drink...and then there was the giraffe on the road right outside the property... Not a lot. We had a glorious time.
• Sashnee (10/5): Wonderful experience. Nadia is awesome her property is exquisite -
• Tannah (8/5): Very peaceful getaway with my lovely family, our stay wasn’t long enough 💛 - We loved everything about this property, from the outdoor showers and open planned living area to the pool table and being so close to nature! Nadia was the most wonderful host, so attentive and helpful in every way 😊
• Tarryn (10/5): Exceptional - Tranquil, safe, comfortable, tastefully decorated. Outside shower was the best at night looking at the stars
• Nolwazi (10/5): Family holiday - Amazing staff and very large beds. Bonfire Wifi kept disappearing. Bit of hair in the bathroom
• Andrew (10/5): An amazing place to stay, we would definitely go back. - Beautiful lodge in a forest, located in a private nature reserve. Great privacy, awesome nature/game walks. Very comfortable rooms and living areas. Nadia and Angel are very welcoming and helpful. The only aspect that we thought could be improved is the kitchen. The cooking equipment needs an overhaul, and new cookware is desperately needed.
• Craig (5/5): with some good TLC, this place has the potential to be really great. - location and tranquility the place needs some serious maintenance. the Kitchen equipment should all be replaced, especially the 2 slice toaster, for a place that sleeps 6, and the rusted frying pans.
• Ian (10/5): Exceptional - Host and housekeeper are great. We loved the whole experience. The lodge, the animals, the lovely kitchen and fire pit. Really had a great holiday and disconnected from crazy everyday life. I have nothing bad to say.
• Zime (10/5): Great peaceful vacation - Everything It’s just a bit far inland then what I expected.
• Brian (10/5): Fantastic!!! - Everything!!! Exceptional location and accommodation!!! Great place to get away to. The host is very welcoming and can't do enough to make your stay a memorable one!!! Nothing!!!
• Ahmed (8/5): Very good - Very peaceful and private. Location was excellent for just relaxing away from the city. Nothing
• Natasha (9/5): Superb -
• Lauren (10/5): Restoring your soul in the African bush…. - Beautiful, private, loved the swimming pool. Recommend the evening spider walk with Olga! Angel serviced our accommodation every day with big smiles and enthusiasm! Fabulous outdoor shower, soft comfortable linen and towels. Nadia ( the owner) is super friendly and accommodating- highly recommend! Definitely need bug spay! Lots of biting insects 😁
• Erika (10/5): Beautiful, Spacious House. - The house has everything you need and more, with beautiful surroundings. We really enjoyed our stay and will book again. Nothing we didn't like, the home is exactly as described in the listing.
• Johan (10/5): Exceptional - friendly host.
• S'phelele (10/5): Exceptional -
• Shane (10/5): Awesome venue with lots to do and see and stunning venue and facilitries. - Beautiful venue. Host and staff were friendly and very accommodating. Lots of birds and game could be viewed at the property. Facilities were cleaned daily. Awesome sights of animals in the reserve. Enjoyed everything. No complaints.
• Vat (8/5): delightful spot to rest and unwind - Self catering with most amenities readily available Great location with giraffes and zebras on your doorstep ! Never take that for granted. This is Africa. Great restaurant with a fabulous deli on site Not much not to like
• Litha (10/5): Exceptional -
• Izak (10/5): Romantic getaway - We liked everything about Thorwood, was a very romantic and relaxing getaway. The house is so private, tucked in the woods, perfect for relaxing. I loved lying in the bath at night with the big windows, looking at the moon. Our host Nadia was incredible. You are also surrounded by walking trails perfect for bird watching. A lots of activities to do, if you prefer so.
• Litha (9/5): Superb -
• Margaret (9/5): Beautiful property and location - Lovely holiday home with everything you need. Great outdoor space and easy to head out for bush walks. We stocked up with food used the great kitchen and enjoyed the privacy and space.
• Melani (10/5): Exceptional - Our recent stay at Thornwood left us utterly speechles. From the moment we set foot in this enchanting lodge, we were greeted not only with stunning accommodation but also with service that can only be described as exceptional. Nadia, the heart and soul of Thornwood, deserves a standing ovation. Her commitment to making our stay unforgettable was nothing short of awe-inspiring. When we realized we had left some of our belongings behind, Nadia went above and beyond to ensure they were back in our possession before we even boarded our flight back to the UK. Her dedication epitomizes the perfect host in every regard. Nestled in the serene embrace of the African Bush, Thornwood is nothing short of a sanctuary for both body and soul. The surroundings are breathtaking, with nature's beauty on full display. The lodge's design seamlessly integrates with the environment, creating a harmonious and tranquil atmosphere that allows you to truly disconnect and rejuvenate. Our room was a haven of comfort and elegance, with every detail thoughtfully attended to. The décor exuded African charm, and the amenities provided left nothing to be desired. But it's not just the physical aspects of Thornwood that make it exceptional; it's the entire experience. The warm hospitality and the personalised service combine to create an unforgettable retreat. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Thornwood caters to your every desire. Our stay at Thornwood was a journey into serenity, luxury, and the heart of the African Bush. Nadia's dedication to ensuring our stay was flawless is a testament to the lodge's commitment to its guests. We wholeheartedly recommend you visit this beautiful sanctuary and experience the magic for yourself. Thornwood is a place where you'll not only find exceptional accommodation but also outstanding service that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.
• Guppyfood (10/5): Family holiday including Granny and Grandpa - It was exceptionally clean and an absolutely beautiful house, beautiful location. The whole package totally exceeded our expectations. Nadia was brilliant! She was very knowledgeable and so friendly and helpful even up to coming to light the fire in the evening. Honestly one of the best places we've stayed at.
• Thomas (9/5): Superb - Good location to visit the NP Hluhluwe close by. The house is a dream, very nice!
• Anonymous (10/5): Amazing stay, relaxing, felt safe and secure and overall a great rest. Thank you everyone involved, we will be back. - The privacy of it all and we had our space to ourself. Deck was breaking. A lot of fixing up needs to be done but this has Newley been taken over and I know these things are going to be taken care of. Taps need fixing in bathrooms and additional hand rails outside need adding onto the shower for elderly people as floors really slippery.
• Norbert (10/5): We had a fantastic stay and loved each minute. - We loved the spacious and luxurious interior with tasteful art. We enjoyed the various seating areas and the seclusion of the property. The garden with pool and waterhole that attracts the animals into the yard was a bonus. The mattress in the main bedroom soon needs an upgrade.
• Adam (10/5): A truely exceptional experience! Highly recommend! Wish we had booked a longer stay. -
• Shirley (9/5): Professionally and personally owner run. A wonderful bush break to get away from it all. - The new owner, Nadia, was extremely friendly and hands on. Both her and Angel, the housekeeper, ensured that our stay was memorable. There are not too many places that will still welcome you with a cool and refreshing hand towel. Nadia met us outside, with the towels, walked us in for complimentary cocktails and a brief walk around the lodge. The lodge is surrounded by the most amazing bush and we had birds, squirrels and even a young Nyla visit us during the day. The lodge is well maintained and everything worked as it should, including the novel outside showers (don’t worry, there are luxury baths inside!) We were self catering and the kitchen was stocked with way more than most self catering spots and the cutlery and crockery were of an extremely high standard. The beds and linen were also superb which is always questionable when staying in lodges. The open living area gave a feeling of a luxury bush camp. Not to forget the plunge pool and deck chairs which were most welcome after a bush walk. We had a fire in the fire pit every evening and used the gas barbecue as well. Both were well maintained. There are plenty (safe) bush walks straight from the lodge. They are all clearly marked out and offer different distances. We did small walks of a couple of hundred meters to a water-hole right up to a 6km walk to the far side of the park. Apart from the many bird species, we also saw: giraffe, nyala, impala, red buck, genet, squirrels and monkeys. We would certainly go back. (In the images, I have added a map- we were is spot 11) I guess if I was nitpicking, I would say more larger wildlife.
• Lesego (10/5): Selokela - Family - Nadia was amazing. She is so warm & friendly. The house is clean & very cozy. Quite & peaceful environment, perfect for relaxing. Great service from the housekeeper daily. We had the best time as a family & got to relax. Will definately come visit again.
• Malte (9/5): will do it again… definitely! - the setting is beautiful and it offers everything. we had an excellent relaxing time. Zebras come along in the evening to have a look at our Potje Pot The mattresses probably need some TLC soon..
• Heloise (8/5): Very good -
• Brendon (10/5): - This stay was the tonic for just what we needed. Spacious, quiet, very well equipped and clean. Our daily Angel allowed us to enjoy the sounds and sights of nature in peace. Apart from the load shedding, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
• h (10/5): An unforgettable stay! - Excellent stay - very spacious with many amenities. The feeling of living on your private smallholding. Tasteful decor in the bush makes for a luxurious family vacation. We woke up to warthogs having a drink of water near the wooden deck. Do follow the directions provided!

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