Royal Malewane unveils redesign
Royal Malewane, a safari lodge that forms part of The Royal Portfolio – the collection of hotels and private residences in South Africa owned and managed by the Biden family – has unveiled an extensive structural refurbishment, as well as the addition of the Masiya Bar.
Located in the Greater Kruger National Park, the lodge has played host to Hollywood actors, pop stars, royals and presidents since it first opened in 1999, accommodating for a maximum of 20 guests using eight one- to six-bedroom villas.
Its recent refurbishment has seen major structural work on new floors, doorways, walls, decking and thatching, as well as the resurfacing of its swimming pools. Liz Biden, owner of The Royal Portfolio, has introduced flashes of colour in the form of furniture and fabrics, while two Royal Suites have further welcomed new kosher kitchens and gazebo entrances.
The highlight of the redesign, however, is the opening of the Masiya Bar on the site of the old boma. The contemporary gin and whisky bush-bar is a tribute to the Master Trackers of Royal Malewane, including Wilson Masiya – who passed away in 2015 but lives on at the lodge through his contemporaries Jonas Mhula and Juan Pinto. A space for private dining and relaxation, the venue adds to the nightly feasts and regular bush dinners currently on offer at the lodge.
Meanwhile, Royal Malewane’s safari experience includes Big five game viewings and detailed insight on the country’s ecosystems and bushveld from some of South Africa’s most qualified guides. Between game drives, the Waters of Royal Malewane Bush Spa also offers treatments that make use of indigenous ingredients.
“The refurbishment has given the entire lodge a lovely lift while retaining the classic safari style and relaxed atmosphere that our guests have enjoyed for nearly 20 years,” comments Liz Biden.
Further developments are in the pipeline, including The Farmstead at Royal Malewane, which will open in mid-2019. The lodge is accessible by road from Johannesburg in under six hours, while Hoedspruit Airport is located 45 minutes’ drive away, and a private airstrip can be used by those wishing to charter flights.
