The Royal Palm Bed & Breakfast

We stopped here on the way to Kruger Park after a crazy, one-day-late flight. It was our first night in South Africa, and we were exhausted. When we arrived, the kitchen was closed, but the boss was really nice and helpful and made us a lovely pie. The room was quite comfy, and breakfast was nice too.

There are plenty of steps up to the main building and rooms, since the place sits on a hillside, but the views make the climb worthwhile. Service was high quality, the staff were kind and friendly, and breakfast was delicious. The building style is really distinctive. Outside, it has a romanesque feel, even around the swimming pool, while the interior is more contemporary but still lovely and tasteful. It’s in a quiet country village in a valley. We enjoyed our stay and hope to return.

Our balcony unit was neat, spacious, and private, with beautiful views. We also appreciated the thoughtful, attentive service. The lodge is well placed in the quaint, quiet, serene town of Orhigstad, close to the panorama route and hiking spots at Blyde river canyon. We had a great stay.

The dinner was the one thing I’d fault. The food combinations were really weird and felt overpriced, with no real value for money. Breakfast, on the other hand, was superb. Even so, this is still one of the best Geusthouses I’ve stayed in anywhere in South Africa, and a must for travellers. The rooms are huge and very clean, and their attention to detail has no match. It’s good value overall, with a great location and views, and a very tranquil feel. I’ll be back.