The Rivonia River Lodge

We booked the one-night special for R1495.00. Dinner was a decent three courses, and the breakfast buffet the next morning was really nice. We had a great time and would return. With its setting and location, the owner could consider themed nights.

This lodge could be great with the right management, but it’s gone downhill since my wife and I first stayed two years ago. We were told only one room was available, yet during our stay there were no other guests around apart from the occasional couple checking in for a few hours. The more “upper class” guests seem to be gone. Once a week, management holds a big party for friends in one of the large rooms, so that room can’t be booked. The rooms are dirty and not cleaned properly, and the cleaners who stay on the property are very loud. The curtains are in poor condition and the blinds don’t work. I was told the owner doesn’t want to spend money on maintenance. Why hire people from other African countries when so many South Africans are looking for jobs? The lodge has real potential, but it needs to be managed properly.

The location is the only good thing here. The rooms are filthy, and there was even broken glass. Every time my child went near the windows, I was terrified we’d end up spending the night at the hospital. Customer service is awful too. There’s one man I suspect is the owner or manager who seems to handle everything himself. If he’s away from the property, you can’t get even the slightest help.

I wouldn’t recommend staying here. The photos online don’t match what you find, and the place has gone badly downhill. The fish pond is green and full of moss. The shower in our first room didn’t work. There are no carpets, towel rails, or room mirror, which makes getting ready awkward if you want to do your hair or makeup. In the middle of winter, the bed had only a thin duvet and a small blanket, and the rooms were freezing.