Menu
Getting the kids ‘back to nature’ for me has always meant some form of eco-friendly accommodation, beach or bush to explore, and a place to kick back and take it all in. The four-star self-catering Thunzi Bush Lodge ticks all these boxes!
Located in a coastal forest a stone’s throw from the Maitland Nature Reserve, Thunzi is totally ensconced among the trees. Each spacious wooden chalet enjoys its own exclusive corner of the forest, complete with a private boma created in little forest glades alongside each unit. When lit up at night, these outdoor rooms are simply magical, and spark much imaginative play among the kids.
We couldn’t keep our boys inside at Thunzi. They wanted to investigate every inch of the property, and being really safe, they could. This included the play area with oversized chess board, Lazy Lizard pool, forest walks, and a couple of frog-filled dams with oversized lily pads and old-school row boats.
An absolute highlight was the chance to take advantage of Thunzi’s complimentary sandboards and hit the massive sand dunes just five minutes down the road at Maitland Beach. What a blast! There was much sliding and rolling and squealing to be had, and we arrived back at the lodge exhilarated, if not a little windswept!
Good thing we all worked up such an appetite, as Thunzi’s signature family picnic basket was waiting for us on our return. We picked it up and headed out to our designated picnic spot – a private oasis tucked away on the edge of the forest and made up with tons of comfy cushions and blankets. We lolled away the afternoon here, tucking into delicious picnic fare, freshly prepared using local and seasonal produce.
Thunzi is really family friendly, from the free bikes and boards on offer right down to the carefully laid out paths between the units that light up at night like a forest fairyland. Although, I think the best part of this hidden little gem is the chance it allows parents to take time out and just relax. After all, isn’t that what family holidays – even those with busy littles ones – is all about?
Facilities: Kids’ bikes, sand boards, pool, play area, walks, picnic baskets, drinks (including alcohol) for sale at reception
All text and images copyright, and cannot be used in any form (electronic or otherwise) without written permission from the author/Living and Loving magazine.
Please complete this short form and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
