At Blaauwbosch Lodge you are treated to the highest peak in the Eastern Cape – the Cockscomb – which does indeed resemble the comb of a mighty fine rooster. The chalets at this reserve in the Karoo are rustic on the outside and warm and cosy on the inside. What’s more there are comfortable bed-sized loungers on the verandahs designed for guests to take a siesta in the heat of the afternoon.
The grazing gemsbok gleam with good health thanks to the succulent vegetation and are so laid back they barely move out of the way of vehicles. On the game drive we climbed even higher into the rocky mountains above the lodge and the views were spectacular. At sunset we spotted a fine caracal, three rhinos foraging just a stone’s throw from our vehicle, spring hares bounding along, a spotted eagle owl sitting sleepily in the tree and
a genet. On our return to the main lodge we were welcomed back with a glass of hot chocolate laced with Nachtmusik – yum yum!
The dining room can be transformed according to the seasons. In summer it is left completely open to catch the tiniest of breezes that prevail and in the evening tables are even set on the lawns. In winter a heavy tarpaulin is lowed and the tables placed beside the fireplace.
Breakfast in the boma warmed by an open fire is a lazy affair. We started with oats cooked with honey and whisky, an omlette plumped out with summer vegetables and camembert and a basket of fresh bread.
The owners are planning a facelift for both the main lodge and Kaai’s Camp – deep in the mountains – is already closed for renovations. With all of this at your disposal, you will quickly chill out and we can only hope that the petroleum companies don’t go ahead with fracking for gas which would obviously ruin it all.