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Helen recently stayed at Out of Africa Guest Lodge in Magaliesburg. She had a wonderful time relaxing and unwinding next to the Magalies River.
Escape. That's all I wanted to do in November; escape from the rush, and the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg CBD. And escape I did. I took an hour's drive to the town of Magaliesburg which lies to the west of Johannesburg. Magaliesburg is a slow town with the kind of people that go out of their way to be friendly to you. You'll meet the local butcher, the seamstress down the road, and the baker covered in flour after having baked a fresh batch of scones. It's the kind of town you go to really slow down and take time out from the everyday rush of life that Johannesburg demands.
Set just outside the town of Magaliesburg you'll find a haven called Out of Africa Lodge. It's neatly nestled on the edge of the Magalies River and lined by a forest of trees. This would be my accommodation for the next two days.
On arrival you're met with a friendly hostess, Marguerite, that walks you down to the lunch table next to the Magalies River. Immediately I was struck by the simple beauty and tranquility of the Out of Africa Lodge. You're in a space that is set apart from everything else you're used to in Johannesburg.
My room, the white linen cottage, takes you back to a bygone era. Its turn of the century interior design reminds you of simpler, less complicated times. Out of Africa Lodge is the perfect place to unwind, unplug and find yourself again.
Next up on the list was the hot stone massage in the forest offered by the Lodge. This comes highly recommended by guests and is one of the secret gems of the Lodge. You're treated to an hour, full body massage in the thick of the forest with the river gushing by in the background. It's truly a wonderful experience.
After this, it's dinner time. Dinner gets served at La Provence, the French quartier of the Lodge. While seated in the French-styled courtyard, you get served a "dinner basket" which is basically a picnic basket containing your dinner; starter, main, and a dessert. It's an authentic and unique experience that truly sets Out of Africa apart.
Jeremia, the manager of the Lodge works hard to ensure that you have the most comfortable stay at the Lodge possible. Any desire, need or whim you may have, Jeremia ensures that your every need is met, and with an incredible smile. In fact, all the staff at Out of Africa Lodge are courteous and kind; you feel like royalty.
Another highlight is the fact that your breakfast is served to you right by the river's edge. Muesli with yogurt, bacon and eggs, and fresh fruit juice; it really doesn't get better than this. Breakfast is made extra special because of the scenery; cascading waterfalls and the swooping willow trees make it feel like a scene out of a Jane Austen novel.
Leaving Out of Africa on Sunday, felt like leaving a part of home. I will definitely be returning to the lodge in the future.
To find out more about Out of Africa Guest Lodge and to book a weekend away in Magaliesburg, click here.
