Bonnievale River Lodge

We’re here for the second time with the whole family, and it’s lovely and peaceful. Everyone, from the general workers to management, is very friendly. On our first night, our car got stuck in the sand on the riverbank. In the morning, staff came to help us out, and didn’t charge us anything 😍. We’ll definitely be back for a third visit and more 🥰

I couldn’t travel because of serious health problems, so I had to cancel my stay. I was told I’d get a full refund, but that promise wasn’t kept and no refund came through. Since I never made the trip, I can’t review the hotel itself. But it’s hard to know who to trust when a promise like that isn’t kept.

My favourite thing was taking the paddle boats up the river, and there are lots of little spots where you can stretch out for a nap. It’s a lovely, relaxed campsite with accommodation, and the owner is easygoing and happy for you to do your own thing. The boisterous dogs make the area feel safe. I appreciated having room to be left alone and properly unwind. It suits people who are self-sufficient and don’t need constant service, and who are comfortable with nature, including flies showing up before rain. A welcoming place for flow and fire dancing 🔥🤘🚀

We wanted a break from our busy lives, so at the last minute we booked four midweek days, Tuesday to Saturday, toward the end of winter. We had the whole place to ourselves. We brought our two pups and booked on booking. com. It’s a two-hour drive from Somerset West, or about two and a half hours from CT. We stayed in the manor house, and the indoor fireplace was a must for a winter visit. Kahlesi and Kingsley, two gorgeous, well-tempered ridgebacks, came by regularly. They’re socialised and handled our yappy Jack Russell like pros. There’s a beach-like stretch along the river with a lapa for everyone to lounge in. If that’s not your thing, there’s also a pool and bar lapa at the back of the property. Accommodation options include glamping tents, a wooden cabin, a modern container cabin, a farmers cottage, the manor house, and a few other small spots around the plot. The owner has thoughtfully made sure each setting has plenty of privacy, even when they’re near one another. It’s a lovely place to disconnect, recharge, and be close to nature. It also works well for private events or for sharing with other couples and friends. There are one or two things that could be improved, but the positives far outweighed any negatives. Thanks to Monique & Kevin for being genuine hosts, and to the rest of the staff for always greeting us while giving us space. We’ll be back.