We Have Arrived At Bushmans Kloof!

First impressions of Bushmans Kloof are considerably enhanced by the wonderful greeting accorded to all guests upon arrival. The car is quickly whisked away and parked under cover out of sight and luggage is promptly delivered to ones suite while the requisite paperwork is being completed. Thereafter, refreshments are offered, either a glass of sherry or iced Rooibos tea, followed by a gentle, guided stroll around the Lodge in order to become acquainted with the various mealtime venues. Breakfast is usually served in the thatched boma (unless it's very cold and raining) and dinner is served in the formal diningroom of the Manor House. Light luncheons can be taken on the terrace overlooking the heated pool of the Manor House and, in inclement weather, breakfasts will also be served inside the Manor House. High Tea is served daily in the boma. Our arrival coincides perfectly with this occasion and after our trip, is precisely what we're looking forward to.

We agree to meet up after we've checked out our rooms and had a quick "freshen up".

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My room is Rock Pools 2. I am delighted with the setting!

I stop briefly to take in the vistas from my veranda...looking to the right, pretty landscaped gardens off-set perfectly against the imposing rocky backdrop. The urge to explore is overwhelming, but first things first!

And looking off to the left...

Looking straight ahead...what a beautiful, umbrella-shaped acacia tree (thorn tree)...I can make out several weavers' nests and judging from all the bird calls I'm hearing already, I know we're in for a treat!

A crystal clear, springwater pool...pity it's winter, otherwise it would be a tempting distraction! There are at least four of these lovely cascading rimflow pools situated throughout the gardens, each with inviting recliners to tempt passing guests into sitting, a while, in restful contemplation of the tranquil surroundings and superbly manicured gardens.

I want to be able to drink in this view for as long as possible...

Already, I'm mesmerised by the rock features...but, High Tea awaits, so I need to go indoors and freshen up!

Stepping inside momentarily takes my breath away! Such comfortable and luxurious furnishings, part African, part Old Colonial. Very tasteful!  I'm delighted to spot a fireplace! I will definitely ask to have that lit for me while I'm at dinner tonight! I won't be at all tempted to watch TV, of that I'm certain!

There are a few select books strategically placed throughout the room and on this table, I'm excited to see waterpaints, brushes and a block of parchment. I'm hoping there will be time to attempt a painting, but realise this is probably not going to be possible, as there is so much else planned for our two day stay.

Plenty of firewood and candles everywhere! There is underfloor heating throughout and an electric underblanket on the kingsized bed. I momentarily anticipate the deep slumber to which I'll be succumbing come bedtime!

The view from the bedroom end of my room, looking back towards the lounge area...

I'm determined to write up some notes at that gorgeous old desk...

I spot a letter lying on the desk, bearing my name and open it...a lovely welcoming notecard wishing me a pleasant stay! I know it's going to be more than that already!

I do so love high thatched roofs...I'm relishing the smell of both the thatch, the grass, floor mats and all the oiled wood, blended subtly together with the hint of previous fires and a delicate aromatic herbal fragrance that seems to be a combination of citrus and lavender. I think I am even able to detect the smell emanating from the bowl of fresh green apples adorning the coffee table, but perhaps that's just my imagination working overtime! I am aware of the most wonderful silence. No traffic sounds, just water casacading gently in the distance and the perky calls of various species of bird. I think I hear frogs clicking, too. 

I notice the lovely African carvings...this low chair, one of a pair, particularly catches my eye!

There is a lot to take in, but I need to hurry up now, as time is ticking by very fast (it always does when I'm having fun!)

A lovely silk throw covers my feather-filled duvet. The mattress is deep and plush and the pillows are also feather-filled! A treat for me. At home, we do not have feathers as my husband has allergies, but I grew up sleeping on feather pillows as a child. I know I will have extra-sweet dreams tonight!

An attractive grouping of oiled kists, off-set perfectly by the large gilt-framed mirror...yes, yes, I know...I need to pop into the bathroom before Carol and Debbie get here in just a few moments!

 

The shower is nice and big, but I do so enjoy soaking in a deep, hot bath on a cold wintery night! I decide instantly that that's exactly what I'll be doing before bed tonight! I notice there are some nice herbal salts to add to the water and scented candles which I'll be able to light.

The selection of bathtime 'goodies' for my personal use!

Stepping across to the twin vanities, I cannot help noticing the attractively presented facial towels. Fresh daisies are strategically placed everywhere as adornment and I'm amused and surprised to even see one floating perfectly (rightside up!) inside the toilet bowl when I lift the lid. That's not something I've personally seen before!

The hand soaps are made from Rooibos tea and smell fresh and lovely! The bathroom walls are covered in a textured fabric. The towels are thick and plush. I am well-pleased!

This next picture should come later, but as we're 'viewing' the bedroom now, I thought I'd include it here anyway...

The 'turndown' service at bedtime is a treat! Apart from homemade fudge and meringues to tempt one to nibble, a scented candle is already lit and bedtime reading is provided in the form of a rolled up African Tale, tied with twine. The bed's heating is switched on and gown and slippers are set out in readiness. And, yes, my fire was lit and my candles were casting a wonderful glow over the whole scene! I felt thoroughly pampered and deliciously and delightfully contented! THANK YOU, CAROL!!!

TO BE CONTINUED...