Kuriftu Resort & Spa Debre Zeyit

I spent four amazing days in a new environment as a foreigner, and even though I was there for a conference, I had such a great time. The staff were polite and welcoming, and the reception was a 10. The ambience blends culture and luxury, with a refreshing lakeside view and activities like kayaking and water park games. There’s also a pool inside the hotel, along with a sauna and massage place. The rooms made me feel like royalty, and I miss that so much. It’s super chilly and cold, so there’s no air conditioning in the rooms, but you can ask for extra comfort if you wish. They have three restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The lunch and dinner spots are by the lake and spread around the hotel, so you get to explore different areas on the way to a meal. Their service is top notch.

The resort is lovely, surrounded by nature, and it felt good to get away from Addis Ababa. Check-in around noon was quick and easy. We stayed in room 116, down at the lower end of the property by the lake, with two adults and one child. But the night was terrible. A nearby church priest preached loudly through speakers from midnight until morning, and dogs, hyenas, and other animals made noise all night too. Breakfast was decent, nothing special. Kids may enjoy the water park, though there isn’t much for adults, and the water in both the park and the lake-side pool was extremely cold. The lake-side pool was also under maintenance during our stay, so we couldn’t use it. Checkout was at 11 a.m., but staff began maintenance work right outside our door in the morning, so we couldn’t relax or enjoy those last hours. A beautiful place, but our stay wasn’t restful or comfortable.

The experience seems to vary a lot. Some guests speak highly of the peaceful, beautiful setting, the friendly staff, and the water park for family visits or spa days. Others report food quality going downhill, uneven service, and maintenance problems.

I’ve had massages in different countries, and Ms. Shawanish Leggasa is honestly one of the best therapists I’ve experienced in Ethiopia. Her technique and professionalism stood out, and she understands the body well. The massage was thorough, relaxing, and truly therapeutic, something I rarely find. She creates a calm, comfortable environment and clearly knows her craft. I highly recommend Shawanish for a professional, high-quality massage in Ethiopia.