Duma Manzi… Boutique Eco Lodge, three of my favourite words united in one title! The use of the word, “boutique” paints the image of an intimate space, where your personal needs will be attended to. The “eco” reference suggests that the owners care as much about the earth’s happiness as they do about their guests. The descriptor “lodge” suggests game and wildlife, to make this a true African experience. So with these impressions in mind, I set off to discover whether Duma Manzi met these expectations…
A well sign posted journey had us arriving at reception where we left our car and transferred our bags to a game viewing vehicle and began our descent into the impressive Umkomaas River valley. We saw a scattering of zebra, some giraffe drinking at the water hole, a family of warthogs and some beautiful wild plants with their deep orange flowers in full bloom. One hour later we arrived at the Lodge.
Duma Manzi is undoubtedly situated in one of the most spectacular locations I have ever had the joy of visiting. The wooden wrap-around decks, dining room and giant fire pit all have views over the Umkomaas River with the imposing red cliffs on the opposite bank creating a striking backdrop. Attentive, personalised service, spacious and luxurious finishings and tasty dining are hallmarks of the Duma Mansi experience.
But what I was even more intererested to experience was the spa. The short walk to the spa along raised wooden walkways through an indigenous forest sets the scene for what is to come. After changing into robes, my husband and I are ushered to a glass steam room, overlooking the forest, where we sit for a few minutes allowing the heat and moisture to start preparing our muscles for our massage. We are then led to the Dual Treatment room for the Duma Manzi couples signature treatment, which consists of a welcoming foot ritual and a full body massage.
The view alone from the treatment room is enough to classify as therapy – with floor to ceiling windows that open onto a deck with sweeping vistas of the cliff faces and river flowing below. The massages administered are heavenly and I must confess to drifting off during the tail end of my treatment. Apparently it is a compliment to the chef when guests make noises whilst eating their food so I trust that my slumber was a compliment to the therapist! In keeping with their commitment to treading lightly on the earth, the spa have chosen to stock Dr Hauschka products and hot water is supplied care of gas rather than geyser. I was a little concerned that with no electric blankets, we might be cold overnight but hot water bottles ensured our beds were snug and of course we had the gas heater for extra warmth! In the morning you cannot boil a kettle (no electric points in the rooms) but a freshly prepared flask of boiling water is delivered to your front verandah so that you can enjoy a cuppa on your deck or in your room before making your way to breakfast.
Duma Manzi exudes a magic and a special sense of place. It combines the ancient spirit of Africa with a modern consciousness that we need to care for our Mother Earth and live in harmony with her. More than just meeting my expectations, Duma Manzi surpassed them all. A welcome retreat on the South African “spa landscape”!
By Jackie Cochrane – Les Nouvelles Esthetiques
South africa is one of the best place to plan for an adventurous trip. You may get best of it.