Wild Horses Lodge

I have been told by the avid fisherman that when you find a “honey hole”, you keep the location secure. You don’t even mention its name for fear of it being overrun and the elusive fish you have been yearning to catch, done in. I’m no fisherman, but that’s exactly how I feel about Wild Horses Lodge. I want to scream its name from the rooftops but am afraid to do so for fear of it being overrun. That said, I feel compelled to share how amazing this place is with others. It’s a conundrum. Wild Horses is an absolute hidden gem, an oasis of calmness and serenity, hidden amongst the hills and dales of Sterkfontein Dam. Arriving at its door is akin to arriving home – somewhere all too familiar, amongst people you have known forever – and yet – something new and enticing all at the same time. “No” is simply not a word at Wild Horses – just my kind of place. Nothing is too much effort or impossible. I arrived at Wild Horses with dietary requirements as long as my arm and every single one was followed to the letter. Not only that, but I could have sworn I was eating in a hidden Michelin Star restaurant, world-renowned for its mastery. And yet, I found myself in a remote location in a small corner of South Africa. The rooms were immaculately clean and extremely comfortable, with magnificent views of the Dam. We stayed in the Zebra Suite, and I can highly recommend it. You can go sailing, fishing, take a trip on a speed boat, quad biking and more. There is so much to do but also nothing to do at the same time – depending on your preference for the day. All of that aside, the standout for me is the people. From the incomparable Kayla who is the face of Wild Horses and your first interaction with the lodge, to Marlise the very talented and incredible chef, to your server for your stay, the friendly Miriam and of course there is the charismatic owner of Wild Horses himself Jon Hawkins, his charming wife Trish and their delightful son Scott. It was an honour to spend three marvelous nights at Wild Horses. I was terribly sad to leave – feeling like I was leaving behind family. But I’m excited to return and know – beyond a shadow of a doubt – that my next stay will be as superb as my first. Do yourself a service and spend some time at this tranquil locale. You won’t regret it.

the place is beautiful. Wild views, friendly staff, a trip from Jozi is about 3 hours a break from the long trip to Durban. Close to Lesotho. The dam is just a walk to the lodge.. you have plenty time to fish, Rooms are absolutely Hawkins.