Wayside Lodge

Amazing hosts. We felt so welcome on our way to the Kruger. Had a lovely dinner at the restaurant. The rooms are spacious and the beds really comfy. We have visited more than once and we are looking forward to return. Cozy and comfortable - especially in winter

Very comfartable accommodation in good location. Personal service and excellent food. Nice and private.

Recently, (12 May 2023) my wife and I stopped over at the Wayside Lodge on our trip from the KZN South Coast to the Kruger National Park. From the outset, the service we received from Pierre Urtel, (the owner and host), was superb. Booking was quick and efficient, and we received a welcoming confirmation letter on the same day. On the day of our arrival, when we were almost half-way, Pierre phoned and enquired how our trip was going. This gesture we really appreciated, as our planned route was blocked by an earlier accident and we had to travel a longer way around, resulting in us arriving later than we anticipated. This was no problem to Pierre, and he wished us well on our travels. When we arrived after an exhausting 10-hour trip, we were warmly welcomed by Pierre. We settled into our accommodation, which was a pleasant surprise! We were expecting a room with a bed and shower, but we were treated to a “Suite” with a patio, small lounge, bedroom and en-suite shower, basin, and toilet. Everything was spotlessly clean! The floors were polished, the bedroom carpet clean and warm underfoot, the bathroom spotless, with complimentary use-as-you-need soap and shower gel which smelt divine! An interesting feature was the ex- SA Railways iron-mongery used as towel rails and bedside lamps, all hand-made by the host. The beds were neatly made, with crisp white linen, thick duvets, fluffy pillows, and ample blankets available. Everything smelt clean and fresh, with no marks on any of the linen items, in fact, everything appeared to be brand new! We walked around the well-kept gardens and huge manicured lawn, marveling at the sense of quiet serenity which surrounds one when on the property, notwithstanding the proximity to the N4 freeway. The many trees and shrubs play a huge role in curbing the noise, not only from the road, but also from the railway line that borders on the property. The entire property is secured by electric fencing, and access is strictly controlled. This is comforting, given the crime stats of the country. We enjoyed drinks and friendly chatter with the Pierre, his wife Sally and some locals in the well-stocked, but reasonably priced pub. We were treated to a superb dinner, prepared by the host, who proved to be an extremely capable Chef! I was impressed by the medium-rare steak I ordered… It was done to perfection! The first time in years that a chef has prepared a steak exactly to my liking! We retired to our room, which was now warm and cozy, thanks to the wall-heater. Ample hot water served us well for long and relaxing showers before a restful night’s sleep. The beds were super-comfortable, with just the right amount of support and length. All the amenities were just what we needed, but the presentation was tastefully done and modern, but with an old-world atmosphere. Breakfast was once again prepared by our “Chef-Supremo” …. Generous portions and everything prepared exactly as we requested. The bacon was crisp, eggs just right,