Katse Lodge

The restaurant has a clear view of the dam, and the food was delicious and cooked just right. The staff were really friendly and helpful, too. Our room was clean, spacious, and well equipped, with an electric blanket and heater to cope with the freezing weather. I was pleasantly surprised. The ceiling in the passage could use some repairs, though. That might have earned the place a fifth star.

Katse Lodge is still closed for renovations, and there isn't an official reopening date yet. I'm looking forward to seeing how it turns out after such a long closure.

The facilities were okay for a one-night stay. The toilets and showers were quite clean, and the hot water worked. They’re in an abandoned hotel block near the lawn where people camp, alongside the taps and dishwashing spots. Walking through its empty rooms and corridors felt a bit strange. The view is definitely magnificent, but the camping area seems improvised, with no marked pitches, so people can set up wherever they like.

The views are great, and we had a good time camping. There wasn't a braai area, though, and the house used for the ablutions felt spooky. The shower had hot water, so no complaint there, but everything you bring into the bathroom will get wet. There is power available from a plug outside the building, in the middle of the yard.