Hey there, fellow adventurers – I’m thrilled to share with you our recent escapade to the captivating world of Fifty Seven Waterberg in the awe-inspiring Welgevonden Reserve. Joining me on this exhilarating journey were my amazing comrades, Kim Jayde, Nicolla Du Plessis, and Tanlyn Leigh, along with the incredibly talented Garreth Barkley, our brilliant photographer who captured every moment with finesse. So, let’s dive right into the heart of this unforgettable trip and let the magic of Fifty Seven Waterberg unfold before your eyes.
Dressed for Adventure, Styled with Elegance
Before I tell you about the trip, let me take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the amazing companies that dressed us in garments that perfectly blended comfort, durability, and style:
- Kingsley Heath
Kingsley Heath decked us out in stunning casual wear and Puffer Jackets that allowed us to explore the wilderness in both comfort and style. Their impeccable designs truly reflected the essence of adventure, capturing the spirit of the untamed with every stitch. - Girl on your Mind
Girl on Your Mind provided us with a delightful range of outfits, including mini dresses, jumpsuits, wide-length pants with tops, and more. Their fashionable pieces allowed us to express our individuality while embracing the wild with confidence and grace. - Every Kind Apparel
Every Kind Apparel showcased its commitment to sustainable fashion by providing us with pieces that were not only stylish but also eco-friendly. Their collection flawlessly blended fashion and ethics, allowing us to embark on our adventure with a clear conscience. - Blizzard & Breeze
Blizzard & Breeze added a touch of elegance to our safari wardrobe with their flounce dresses and BB Monogram Wrap Scarf. The attention to detail and exquisite craftsmanship elevated our safari looks, making us feel both comfortable and glamorous. - Wildcat
Our trusted partner, Wildcat, once again provided us with all the high-performance activewear we needed for our thrilling escapades. From supportive sports bras to moisture-wicking leggings, their gear allowed us to embrace our adventurous spirits while feeling confident and empowered. - Tracy B
Tracy B catered to our swimwear needs, providing us with stylish swimsuits that allowed us to make a splash in the pool. Their designs perfectly combined fashion and functionality, ensuring that we looked stunning while enjoying our private pools.
And of course, let’s not forget our long-time partner, Veldskoen Shoes, who provided us with the most comfortable hiking boots. We’ve come to rely on Veldskoen for their durable and reliable footwear, and once again, they didn’t disappoint. Their shoes kept us comfortable, rugged, and feeling patriotically South African.
As always, Lipault remained our trusted luggage partner. We adore their lightweight and stylish luggage, which adds a touch of high fashion to our travel. Plus, their vibrant colours make it easy to spot our bags, ensuring that we always travel with both ease and sophistication.
The Roar of the Lioness, the Power of the Elephant, and the Surprise of the Rhino
Welgevonden Reserve never fails to amaze us with its abundant wildlife. Our journey was filled with incredible sightings that left a lasting impact. It all began with an adrenaline rush as we came face-to-face with four majestic lionesses, the queens of the savannah. We watched in awe as they effortlessly dragged around a wildebeest carcass, their strength and untamed beauty a true wonder to behold.
The elephants of Welgevonden are enchanted. We watched an elephant using a tree to scratch its itchy scalp, the sound resonating through the air. Elephants have such wise eyes. As always, I am completely captivated by their tender interactions and sheer size. It’s humbling to witness these gentle giants and be reminded of the importance of protecting and preserving their existence. But the highlight of our adventure was the unexpected encounter with a crash of rhinoceros, including the most adorable little calf. While filming playful baboons, we were taken by surprise as the rhinos emerged from a thicket and crossed our path. It was a truly awe-inspiring moment, and being in such close proximity to these endangered creatures served as a powerful reminder of the crucial work being done by Rhino Orphanages across South Africa. They need our support to ensure the survival of these magnificent animals for future generations.
Exceptional Service and Warmth
The warmth and exceptional service we experienced at Fifty Seven Waterberg are really unparalleled. From the moment we arrived, we were embraced like family, with every detail meticulously taken care of. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that our stay was nothing short of extraordinary. We were deeply touched by the genuine care and passion exhibited by the staff, making our time at Fifty Seven Waterberg truly unforgettable.
A Gastronomic Delight
Now, let’s talk about the culinary journey that awaited us. The lodge truly hit the sweet spot, delivering a gastronomic delight that surpassed all expectations. This is not something that many lodges get right. Some try too hard and produce dishes that are complicated, fussy and out of place. Others, play it too safe, with food that is bland, uninspiring and boring. Fifty Seven managed to strike the perfect balance, offering wonderful, fresh, and flavorful dishes without overwhelming us with an abundance of average options or overly complicated dishes. Here deliciousness is the driving force. Each meal was a celebration of tastes, meticulously crafted with locally sourced ingredients and vibrant spices. The chefs showcased their skill and passion, delivering a symphony of flavours. We indulged in every bite.
Stunning Accommodation, Where Modern Style Meets Wilderness
Now, let’s talk about the stunning accommodation that awaited us at Fifty Seven Waterberg. The lodge exuded modern style, with floor-to-ceiling glazing that allowed us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. The contemporary design seamlessly blended with the untamed surroundings, creating a unique ambience that completely captivated. Cosy (but super modern) fireplaces provided warmth and comfort, inviting us to relax and reflect on our adventures. And let’s not forget the private swimming pools, surrounded by the untamed splendour of Welgevonden. It was an absolute dream to experience such luxury while being so intimately connected to the wild.
Capturing Unforgettable Moments
A special shoutout to Garreth Barkley, the incredibly talented photographer who immortalized our journey through his lens. His skills and vision brought the beauty of Fifty Seven Waterberg to life, preserving the essence of our adventure for eternity. Each photograph tells a story, capturing the raw and untamed spirit of the bush. We are immensely grateful for his contribution, and we’re already planning future trips with him to capture more unforgettable moments.
An Invitation to Discover
Are you ready to embark on your own extraordinary adventure? Let The Safari Gals book an unforgettable stay for you at Fifty Seven Waterberg, where nature’s splendour awaits. Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Welgevonden Reserve, where lions roar, elephants roam, and rhinos grace the landscape. Experience the exceptional service, indulge in the gastronomic journey that will delight your taste buds, and create your own extraordinary memories. This is your chance to escape the ordinary and embrace the wonders of the wild.