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Hitgeheim Country Lodge and Eco Reserve


5 STAR EASTERN CAPE LODGE
ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK

The Hitgeheim Country Lodge offers true South African hospitality in stylish chalets. This lodge is situated in the Eastern Cape's stunning Sundays River Valley, just minutes from the Addo Elephant National Park. Hitgeheim is nestled within an eco-reserve, and the chalets overlook the stunning citrus orchards and beyond. This reserve exudes peace and relaxation.

The Sundays River Valley is a not a malaria risk area, so Hitgeheim is ideal for the entire family. Experienced guides are on hand to conduct formal safaris through the world-famous Addo Elephant Park, which is home to about 500 African Elephants, as well as the private game reserve that is the habitat of the Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino).

After a hot day spent in the South African bushveld, the swimming pool at the lodge will be a welcome retreat. As dark begins to descend on the terrain, sip on a refreshing sundowner or one of the wines from the cellar on the verandah. Round off your evening with a delicious dinner.



Accommodation

Hitgeheim Country Lodge promises elegant accommodation in five Superior Suites (or Honeymoon Suites) and three Luxury Chalets. These are nestled within indigenous gardens and boast beautiful bedrooms, private wooden decks and spacious bathrooms. The views of Sundays River Valley from the rooms and deck are awe-inspiring.

Other facilities include wireless Internet access, air-conditioning, heating, electric blankets for chilly winter evenings, electronic safe, hairdryer, snack basket, tea- and coffee station, and either king-size or twin beds. The bathroom amenities are luxurious and its structure makes use of stone to evoke a sense of bringing the natural world inside. The outdoor shower makes for a uniquely authentic bushveld experience.

Facilities

The Hitgeheim Country Lodge boasts a saltwater swimming pool, dining room, walk-in wine cellar, communal lounge with satellite television, gorgeous gardens and unbeatable surrounds. Wireless Internet connectivity is available throughout.

Dining

The Hitgeheim Country Lodge uses local flavours and fresh ingredients to create an interesting and delicious range of dishes. Every dinner is a six-course affair, and every course is sure to have a complementary wine from the cellar. Meals are tailored to each guest's unique dietary requirements.

Breakfast is best enjoyed on the verandah, along to the soundtrack of the various bird species in the surrounding trees and bushes. The menu includes fresh fruits and fruit juices, muesli, cereal, stewed fruit, preserves, cold meats and cheeses, all perfectly followed by a hot cooked South African breakfast.

Activities

The Hitgeheim enjoys close proximity to the ever-popular Addo Elephant National Park. Experienced guides conduct game drives in open-top safari vehicles, providing uninterrupted views of a wide array of birds, plants and wildlife. In addition, Elephant Back Safaris and picnic areas are on offer at this large and impressive facility. Other sanctuaries, parks and reserves in the area include the Cheetah Breeding Sanctuary, Schotia Private Game Reserve (home of the Tooth & Claw Safari), Amakhala Private Game Reserve and the Addo Raptor & Reptile Centre.

Guests requiring a restful day at the lodge are welcome to stroll in the gardens, spot the birdlife, smell the orange blossoms and admire the surrounds. These vistas offer the keen or amateur photographer with the ideal photographic opportunities; memories to last a lifetime.

Location

Hitgeheim Country Lodge is situated in the Sundays River Valley in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It is only 72 kilometres from Port Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela Bay, which is one of the Host Cities of the 2010 FIFA World Cup&153;.

GPS co-ordinates:
33° 31' 51° S
25° 37 ' 27° E

Directions from Port Elizabeth
Take the N2 towards Grahamstown for 10 kilometres. Cross over the Swartkops River and take the turn-off indicated "Motherwell / Markman / St George's". Turn left onto the R335 towards Addo. After approximately 45 kilometres, turn left towards Kirkwood (R336). Turn left at the sign for Hitgeheim Country Lodge. The route from here to the hotel is fraught with animals, so motorists are requested to be aware and careful while driving.

Directions from Graaff-Reinet
Take the R75 to Port Elizabeth and turn left onto the R335 to Kirkwood/Addo Elephant National Park. At the 4-way stop, turn right into Kirkwood's Main Street, through Summerville. The sign for Hitgeheim Country Lodge will appear. Turn right at this sign. Beware of animals on the road.

By Air:
There is a landing strip situated on the eco-reserve.