Virginia Forest Lodge

The location is great, the managers are great, and the lodge has potential, but the house is old and poorly kept. We stayed in rooms 4 and 5, and neither looked like the pictures. Room 4 had severe bathroom mold and peeling paint. The TV offered only selected DSTV channels. Its bed was two single beds pushed together with a sponge mattress, and the yellow sheets had holes. The wood was swollen, as if water damaged. In room 5, the toilet and shower leaked. I slipped on the water the first night and badly bruised my arm. I told the manager the next morning; they tried putty but couldn't fix it and didn't call a plumber. The bed was also two singles with a sponge mattress, and the sheets and duvet covers were old and full of holes. I was glad I'd brought my own pillows and blankets. The communal kitchen had everything needed, but it was all dirty and sticky. The yard was neglected, the pool was dirty, and they didn't clean it after I asked. The patio furniture was very old, and the fridge outside was broken and dirty. There was no garage for the three rooms, so we had to park behind the house in rain and hail. For what they charged, this was very disappointing. It could be a great place if it were maintained.

I had to find different accommodation after arriving in Durban, and the staff were very helpful. Jared the manager greeted me, took care of check-in, and was always available. The rooms were tidy and had the amenities shown in the pictures. Everyone was extremely friendly and accommodating. It's in a quiet, secure area and felt almost like home. I'd recommend staying here and would come back.

Our group got a bit loud, but Josh and Jared were still very accommodating. The rooms were neat and clean, and the service at this lodge was great. Such a pleasure to stay there. Well done, guys.

The managers made us feel comfortable, and the whole stay felt like being at home. They even had board games for loadshedding. The food was great, with generous servings and a good variety. Our room was clean and comfortable, with a nice view and aircon. I'd definitely come back!