The Mansion Lodge

We booked through THEIR website two months ahead for our Anniversary weekend and paid in full. They asked for proof of payment, and we sent it. We thought everything was confirmed, but on arrival reception had no idea who we were. After I showed the payment proof, she recognized the payment but said it had no date. Nobody had called to clarify, even though the booking was made through THEIR OWN WEBSITE. Then we were told our room wasn't available and offered two alternatives. One was like a closet, and the other had a disgusting, pungent smell. My Fiance was packing the car while I asked for our money back. I called head office, but they said they could only help Monday. The receptionist really saved things by finding us a better room. But when I called the consultant who had confirmed our booking, she said she was on holiday in cape town and couldn't help. Absolutely horrible experience, not worth the drama.

Honestly, I don't recommend it at all. We had to ask for towels, and reception was empty because the guy had to run around. They didn't offer sachets for tea, and the mosquitoes were having a feast.

We used to stay at this house whenever we came to Harties for sailing, and it was our usual spot. This visit was a letdown. The place is clearly falling apart and hasn't been maintained. The broken window covers and curtains that won't close properly also make privacy an issue. The bedroom ceiling looks like it's in poor condition and possibly unsafe, the bathroom door won't shut properly, and the geyser wasn't working well, so we had no hot water. That was really frustrating. For the nightly price, the house just isn't worth it in its current state. I hope the owners take action and bring it back to the standard it used to have.

Parking was really tight for maneuvering a 4x4, and there are lots of stairs. The staff were friendly, but seemed confused because other guests also hadn’t received the rooms they booked. My room had no balcony or mountain view, even though those were listed in the features on Booking.com, so what’s advertised doesn’t match what you get. At checkout on Sunday morning, I was accused of taking a coffee mug, although we’d only had one cup since checking in. I feel sorry for the staff dealing with angry customers. They should lower the prices and update the ads.