Thornhill is a truly authentic, off grid, borehole served, self catering lodge. It comprises of a living/dining/kitchen area, connected by an outside patio to the 3 spacious bedrooms. We allow a maximum of 2 pets on request only. Bedroom 1 - 1x double bed Bedroom 2 - 1x double, 1x single Bedroom 3 - 1x double, 1x bunk bed All rooms fully air conditioned and en suite. Very closely linked is the well equipped lapa/ boma/ braai area, spaciously housed under a traditional thatch, with ample preparation space. Moving across, is the dining table, which easily seats 8 and stands next to a comfy couch, chairs and coffee table. The bar is also situated in this space, complimented by a fully equipped kitchen, fridges and free standing oven/hob. Adjoining is a well maintained pool area with a relaxing gazebo, nestled neatly below an elevated viewing deck, allowing you to see, hear and smell the delights of the South African bush. The sunrises and sunsets are awesome! The lodge itself boasts large manicured gardens and allows full access to the bush. We intend for your stay to be memorable and relaxing. Additional services, ie, washing and cleaning are available for a small charge.

We are keen to share our home and the experiences it offers, in terms of totally getting away from the hustle and bustle of day to day life. We love the feeling of being at one with nature and hope we have captured it in this setting. We feel we have! Just knowing that the wildlife can be observed from sunrise to sunset, as they saunter past in their family groups is truly special. With an interest in photography and exploring, this is the perfect retreat for us to catch the multitude of bird species and the beautiful flora and fauna in the lens. We also have an appetite to be involved with local enterprise and offer our time in support of local communities and wildlife initiatives. The sense of togetherness in the community, is phenomenal. We are currently concentrating on running more sustainably and have installed a solar panel system with appliances that are energy efficient. Also, we source products from local outlets and all are environmentally friendly products, with the pool products being the exception. We have begun to grow our own produce and intend to make them available to guests in the future. We also will be offering transfers from the Eastgate airport where requested.

We are set within the pristine, 1000 hectare Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve. This gated reserve has 24 hour security and we are right in the middle of it all. Please note, there is a R170 conservation fee, per car, payable on entry to the reserve. With full traversing rights, one can walk, jog, cycle or enjoy a breathtaking game drive. The biking trails range from easy to challenging and there are some roads requiring a 4x4 vehicle to access. These are clearly marked and amount to around 20% of tracks. Driveways and properties are also clearly marked and are private. We are ideally situated for access to the flip we dip, a small waterhole and home to our resident, juvenile crocodile. Also, the picnic spot which is in an elevated position and affords spectacular views of the reserve and the Drakensburg Mountain Range. Perfect for sundowners!! Amongst the myriad of species, (excluding big 5) to be found in the reserve, are: Sable, Giraffe, Zebra, Kudu, Wildebeest, Impala,Nyasaland, Water Buck, Duiker, Wart Hog, Civet, Genet, Jackal, Hyena, Pels Fishing Owl, Vulture, Hornbill, a breeding pair of Wahlbergs Eagle……..you get the idea! A truly authentic bush feel. The mighty Olifants River winds protectively along our northern border and boasts breathtaking views of the magnificent Drakensburg Mountain Range. The nearest town, Hoedspruit is a 44 km drive, (as is the nearest airport, Eastgate airport) & has ATM’s Restaurants, local shops, Grocery & Butcher shops. Flights can also be booked to view the mountain range and a package is available to breakfast on the summit, coming fully recommended! The Kruger Park Orpen & Phalaborwa Gate’s are 90min drive away from our tar road. The Blyde River Canyon, includes Bourkes Luck Potholes, Gods Window, Three Rondavels, Pilgrims Rest. & other wildlife activities in the area are Mohololo Rehab, Cheetah Breeding Project, HESC, Hoedspruit Reptile Cnetre & Horse Riding.