Walnut Grove Lodge

We were there with our family of four and friends with kids, and the place was great for a big group. It’s massive, warm, and has plenty of facilities. There’s also a huge spa, which is always great. That said, it’s quite dated and seems to get a lot of Airbnb use. The facilities could use an upgrade, and everything needed a way before we used it. Those were small annoyances in a place that housed lots of people really well. Funny review, I know.

We booked this through Bookabach a year and a half ahead but never got confirmation. The host only sent us a second payment option about a year and three months later. When we explained what had happened, she lied to us on the phone and is now demanding the remaining amount under their cancellation policy. Bookabach won’t take responsibility either. If you book through Airbnb, she’ll refund cancellations up until five days before. I feel like both the host and Bookabach scammed me, taking my money for a service I didn’t even know we had booked for a year. Absolutely do not use Bookabach or make this booking. Do not use.

The place suited what we needed, and it was nice, but I couldn’t properly relax. The owner was around most of the time, came into the house without warning while people were changing or sleeping in rooms across the hall, and invaded our privacy. They even slept in the guest house after explicitly saying it would be unoccupied. We felt monitored.

The owner is very kind and generous, and the place has a great environment with lots to do, including an outdoor spa pool and tennis court. I held my son’s 21st there, and he and his mates loved it. Such a good place for a 21st if you like to party!