Legacy invests in bush lodge

AN amount of approximately R400 000 has been put aside by Legacy Hotels and Resorts for a comprehensive upgrade to the upmarket Tshukudu bush lodge in the Pilanesberg National Park in the North West Province. According to general manager at Tshukudu, Graeme Dennis, the six en-suite units have been completely revamped, with work scheduled to begin on the public facilities soon, including the dining room, lounge and conference facilities. Dennis told TNN that he would be introducing walking trails through the bush from the Bakubung Lodge to Tshukudu. Guests are usually transported to the rugged lodge - situated high on a rocky outcrop overlooking a waterhole - by means of a game vehicle from Bakubung as it is not accessible by car. "We will put together a package that can include either the walking trails - about a three hour walk - or the game vehicle transfer, which takes 20 minutes." An overnight stay at the lodge - arranged for media and industry professionals to view the new-look rooms - revealed an unusual feature, a sunken bath which offers a wide view of the waterhole and plains below, allowing visitors to view game at the waterhole. The night TNN visited, guests had the rare sighting - from the viewing deck of the lounge area - of watching a leopard stalking an impala. Having to climb 132 steps means the lodge is inaccessible to the physically challenged and due to the fact that the lodge, although situated high above the ground, is not fenced off, children under the age of 12 are not allowed. The double rooms - charged at double room rates - feature two extra single beds with a surcharge for additional room guests. Rates include all meals, game drives and local beverages. (Adéle Mackenzie) .