Review: Crystal springs

CRYSTAL SPRINGS NATURE RESERVE

Location:

A lovely secluded resort isolated in between never ending mountains in Pilgrimsrest. 

Getting there:

A solid 4hr drive from JHB, wonderful idea to stop for something to eat while passing through Dullstroom. After Dullstroom the winding road progressively gets worse be cautions of potholes! and wildlife walking in the road. Your last major town is Lydenburg a vibey little town, although directions getting through were not very clear. Google maps took us through no problem.I advise following a GPS showing you the way.

Privacy:

Don't expect complete isolation and privacy at this lodge, however the braai area and deck are cleverly arrange to make you feel like you have your own space. Other areas such as pools and activities are all communal so expect people and children walking around and sharing your relaxing time especially around the pools.

Unit:

The units are scattered throughout the lodge most with spectacular views over the valley. Each were very spacious and private. Our 3 bedroom/6 sleeper had a large living area, Fire place , DSTV, braai area, large kitchen  and 2 bathrooms one on suit and the other shared between 4 of us. 

Kitchen:

A wonderful kitchen with fridge, microwave, oven and stove all in perfect working order. The unit had excessive glasses for any drink. Even shot glasses for the adventurous. You need bring no utensils your kitchen will have everything.

Bathrooms:

Bathrooms were of acceptable quality and working order all towels provided, Hot water in abundance even for 4 of us sharing and showering we did not run out of hot water.

Parking:

Each unit has 2 designated undercover parking bays. Other parking spaces may not be demarcated but are fine to use if out the way especially for leaving trailers etc.

Service:

We did not have any issue with service we arrived late 11:30 pm and the security were still friendly and ready for us even though no prearrangement was made for us to arrive late.

The unit staff cleaners were also friendly and did there job well our place was cleaned well and early. never felt hassled or insecure with the cleaners.

Food/Restaurant:

We did not eat so can accurately comment on this. 

Family rating:

High rating for a family trip a secure lodge with relaxed vibe allowing kids to play free, a small agenda was given to us keeping us up to date with kids activities throughout the day.

Conclusion:

A very nice resort with lots to do and very little preparation needed to enjoy this trip. The longer you stay the more relaxed it becomes. a heated pool wins the battle for a late night "night cap". 

The resort is scattered with pools, our unit was not in walking distance. The heated pool located at the main block where the Pub and shop are. Even in summer there was a chill in the air in the evenings so a welcome fire place set the mood for a good nights relax chill and braai. There are some animals mostly plains game so don't expect the big 5.

TIPS:

come to do as little as possible if you can take a stroll around the walking trails with your camera fully charged your wont regret it

Wait for the restaurant and pub to close and sneak up to the heated pool with a plastic cup some ice topped off with an Amarula and spend some time sipping it whilst listening to the sounds of nothing.