Mtunzini Forest Lodge, Mtunzini, North Coast, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

This lodge had been on our bucket list for a while (can't get better than trees and the beach) but we had never visited before due the cost factor. When we were awarded a couple of travelling vouchers, we finally made our booking and what a delight it was!

The staff were super friendly and greeted us with happy smiles, despite it being a sweltering 37 degrees. After a short drive through the very secure and well maintained property we arrived at our cabin - perfectly hidden from the road and other units amongst the trees and bushes. 

The wooden cabin is exactly what you would hope to find in such a natural setting - nothing fancy but with everything you need. We were most impressed that the kitchen even had a colander! There were beautiful red flowers placed on the beds and in the kitchen - such a lovely touch.  

Well equipped kitchen

Flowers left by the staff

The lounge had comfortable couches and a tv with full dstv (if you needed it) and opened onto the wooden deck with a bench set. The main bedroom also opened onto the deck and enjoyed the same view -  just trees and bush, wonderful for the soul. 

Lounge leading on to deck

Main bedroom with doors leading on to deck

View from the deck

We loved that you could stand in the shower and feel like you were outside with the branches so close you could hang your face-cloth on them. 

View from the shower

Bathroom

The second bedroom also had a double bed and cupboards but was much darker than the main bedroom. All the windows had gauze coverings so you could leave them open the entire time without worrying about mosquitoes and bugs crawling in to come cuddle up with you.

Second bedroom

We thoroughly enjoyed swimming in the communal pool (we would highly recommend a night swim, the water is lovely and warm from the pool being in the sun all day) , taking walks in the forest and to the private beach (less than half a kilometer from the cabins), sitting on the deck listening to the birds and sea (yes you can hear it from the deck even though it is over the dunes) and watching butterflies flit past. 

Path to the beach

Kiddies pool

Adults pool 

Private braai area

Great features:

* Absolute peace and privacy

* Close to the beach

* Clean and comfortable

Not so great features:

* The deck is not covered so when it rains, you unfortunately have to sit inside

* The outdoor bench and table is not comfortable at all! It definitely needs some cushions or even better, a couple of camper chairs for those who enjoy being outdoors.

Deck furniture - not comfortable at all

Price:

The charge is per unit so if 4 (or 6) people shared it is very reasonable. It is a bit steep for just a couple though (more than R500 per person) so would be nice if they offered reduced rates for couples.

Recommended for:

Couples and families - there are 4 and 6 sleeper units and lots of activities to keep the kids busy.

The host/s:

All the staff were very friendly and helpful, right from the lady who did the booking via email to the security guard who kindly shone the way to the pool. 

For more information and bookings:

selfcat@goodersons.co.za