Jock Sabie Lodge

The gardens at Jock Sabie Lodge looked lovely when we arrived, and I expected a pleasant stay. That changed as soon as I saw our unit. It was extremely basic and looked as though it hadn’t been used for years, as if it had only been opened because they needed somewhere to put us. The worst part was bugs in two beds, so the three of us had to squeeze into one double bed. There was no air conditioning, and the fan was loud even on its lowest setting. The bathroom was filthy and in a complete mess. The main bedroom got no sunlight or fresh air, and the trelly door had no lock. The kitchen was short on equipment, the fridge was too small for a self catering unit, and we could barely fit our things in it. The dustbin was broken too. There were only two dirty towels for three people, and they never changed them. The unit and gardens were cleaned daily, but that was the only bright side. Don’t be fooled by the lush gardens and big pool, the inside was horrifying. It wasn’t worth the price, and I wouldn’t recommend it. Some Photos are attached.

The service and hygiene were zero for me, and I wouldn’t give this place a star. The whole time, the water kept cutting off. Some of my friends had to search other rooms for water while the receptionist went awol. The reception was usually empty, and when we called for help, no one answered. The place was very dirty, old, and not cared for. Water came out of the toilet pipes when flushing, and the very old stoves had no gas connected. You could hear your neighbors even when they turned over at night, and the beds were old and noisy. The pool was also filthy and neglected. I’d advise everyone to stay away.

The cabins are livable inside, but the rest of the lodge doesn’t justify what you pay. The pool and its benches are run down, the gardens need attention, the log cabins need care, the bathrooms are outdated, and the potholes at the entrance need fixing. We had no water or gas on our first night, and reception was closed. The clubhouse wasn’t operating, the bar was closed, and there were few staff, though they kept the lights on. It’s not luxurious or high tech, and the TV is old school. I hope proper maintenance happens before I consider returning. This is constructive feedback for potential new visitors.

We arrived to find the place unclean. The toilet seats were dirty, the dishes hadn’t been washed, and the bath towels we were given were used and dirty. Both living room couches were broken and smelled awful, and there was just one garden chair outside. The kitchen cupboard doors were hanging by their hinges. When we asked about the restaurant, they said they now serve breakfast only and no other meals. I’m not sure how this place got a 3 star rating.