KOPHO LODGE is in a spectacular setting. It is built in a koppie (a rocky outcrop) and is difficult to describe because the architecture is unique. Perhaps something like the fortress at Zimbabwe ruins crossed with the Flintstones crossed with a minimalist aesthetic would describe it. In any case there are winding stone stair cases, trees growing through the roof, it has multiple levels, because that is how the rocks are, and sweeping views over the gorge. There are outdoor showers and the toilets are approached by perilous paths. There are few safety features whatsoever in a pleasant break with our nanny society, and in various places you are free to plunge over the edge of the building to the rocks below. This is definitely not a place for people with small children or people who like to combine wilderness with heavy drinking. There are two main dorm areas with rough wooden beds and canvas covered mattresses, they sleep twelve altogether. Because the place is open plan it is best to fill it if you want privacy, otherwise you might be sharing it quite audibly with others, there is no sound insulation whatsoever.
The community people who service it are pleasant and helpful, they will provide you with firewood, paraffin lanterns, and reconnect the water supply when cattle stand on it. The lodge is kitted out with a two burner gas stove top, pots and pans, cutlery etc. At time of writing one half of the buildings roof has been recently sealed against water, the other is still to be done at the time of writing and it leaks in heavy rain.
There are trails from the lodge along the rim to dramatic viewpoints, and one trail right down into the valley itself and to the river. Other trails are part of the gorge network, these are indicated by stone cairns and maps are usually available from reception.
KOPHO LODGE is in a spectacular setting. It is built in a koppie (a rocky outcrop) and is difficult to describe because the architecture is unique. Perhaps something like the fortress at Zimbabwe ruins crossed with the Flintstones crossed with a minimalist aesthetic would describe it. In any case there are winding stone stair cases, trees growing through the roof, it has multiple levels, because that is how the rocks are, and sweeping views over the gorge. There are outdoor showers and the toilets are approached by perilous paths. There are few safety features whatsoever in a pleasant break with our nanny society, and in various places you are free to plunge over the edge of the building to the rocks below. This is definitely not a place for people with small children or people who like to combine wilderness with heavy drinking. There are two main dorm areas with rough wooden beds and canvas covered mattresses, they sleep twelve altogether. Because the place is open plan it is best to fill it if you want privacy, otherwise you might be sharing it quite audibly with others, there is no sound insulation whatsoever.
The community people who service it are pleasant and helpful, they will provide you with firewood, paraffin lanterns, and reconnect the water supply when cattle stand on it. The lodge is kitted out with a two burner gas stove top, pots and pans, cutlery etc. At time of writing one half of the buildings roof has been recently sealed against water, the other is still to be done at the time of writing and it leaks in heavy rain.
There are trails from the lodge along the rim to dramatic viewpoints, and one trail right down into the valley itself and to the river. Other trails are part of the gorge network, these are indicated by stone cairns and maps are usually available from reception.
