The Shire Eco Lodge

Architectural masterpiece on the edge of an indigenous forest - where nature lovers come to be nurtured.

+27 43 683 2452 Facebook www.shire.co.za

The Shire Eco Lodge is extraordinary. Inspired by the desire to create a space truly unique, The Shire captivates with its innovative design and magnificent setting.

The luxury chalets rest on the edge of the indigenous Xholora forest in the Amatola Mountains, just a stream’s hop from the enchanted home of many rare species of plants, birds and butterflies.

They are the perfect getaway for everyone: nature-loving and adventurous types, business folks or families – The Shire promises to soothe, inspire and rejuvenate.

CHALETS

Each elegant open-plan chalet contains a stylish en-suite bathroom and fully equipped kitchenette, as well as its own braai /barbeque facilities. Through the striking curved-glass corner window, you can feel a part of the forest. For the more daring kinds, our two river-side chalets have their own open bush showers where you can soak and steam among the trees. Keep a look out for the rare samango monkeys curiously watching from the treetops.

There are a number of restaurants close by where one can dine in the evenings if too relaxed to cook. Or if you fancy a hot dinner, we will cook you an organic meal, with all available home-grown ingredients.

CAMPSITE

Situated alongside the forest, the Shire Camp has 16 sites each with its own electricity and water points. The unisex ablution block, is situated in the middle of the sites and has additional dish washing facilities. The campsite has a no-turn-away policy and allows for flexible bookings for unsupported bicycle travelers.

ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS

Venture out of your room and explore the Forest : beautiful hikes to waterfalls, ancient Lemonwood forests and the spectacular Anderson Dam; horseback trails; superb bird watching; mountain bike trails. There are a number of marked trails through the forest, of varying lengths. If you prefer, guided walks are also available.

Or visit The Shire Wild Bulb Nursery and see our collection of South Africa’s rarest tuber and bulbs.

For a Spot of Sport: canoe hire is available on Gubu dam; excellent trout and bass fishing; archery; rock-climbing & bouldering; abseiling; mountain bike hire; Motorbike tours; golf; tennis; squash; Aquascape Adventures offer a variety of water sports and leisure cruises on Wriggleswade dam.

For Cultural Enrichment: Visit the remarkable Stationary Engine Museum; take a trip to Old Thomas River Historical Village with its rock art museum and tours, or Mqwali Xhosa Cultural Village; visit local artists, galleries and pottery workshops.

Mountain Bike trails: Ride the 8 or 17km route along the forestry roads of Kologha or head further afield to explore the MTB trails in the Amatola Region.