What is instantly striking as you cascade deeper into the valley is the breathtaking scenery. Mountain acacias lining the horizon along peaks and slopes as far as you can see. If you catch these trees at the right time of year, not even Picasso could arrange colors so rich and diverse. Maroons, greens, reds and oranges of all different shades make this one of the most striking views I have seen.
As you drive deeper into the forest your heart starts to tell you that an adventure awaits with all kinds of surprises to be expected. Whether a birding enthusiast, a nature lover, eager to see rhino up close or a love for gliding across the smooth lake, Romelda Lakeside Retreat caters for all of your needs.
The accommodation options are well thought through with an option for any budget. The staff are always available to serve without being in your face - a tricky balance to get right. And if you have the budget to go all in, the food did not disappoint. Wholesome meals with a great balance between flavor and diversity meets you after each activity you embark on through your stay. Whether its a delicious English breakfast after a 5am bird walk or a filling dinner after a boat cruise to get close up to some rhinos, Romelda is well equipped to ensure you get the comfort and rest that you are looking for.
Other options on activities include a tour of great Zimbabwe and some other fascinating historical spots along the way. Romelda has created a full day outing that loops along all these historical and nature-loving hotspots and gets you back to the relaxation of the deck for sundowns. In terms of location, everything is nearby that you intend to do in the area.
For the birding enthusiasts it is a must! With the diversity of miombo woodland and lakeside birds, you are bound to get a decent list for a weekends stay. Some wetlands in the area also boast a different variety of bird species. The location is good for twitching the secretive African Finfoot - we managed to see 3 different birds on one boat trip! The Southern Hyliota, Miombo Tit, African Golden Oriole, White- Breasted Cuckooshrike, Mocking Cliff-Chat and Thick-Billed Cuckoo are all birds you should keep an eye out for.
A game drive into the Mutirikwi National Park was certainly a highlight for the trip. The well equipped guide took us to all the right areas to see two groups of Rhino and a heard of Buffalo, Giraffe and a variety of antelope. I had never been so close to Rhino before and experiencing their curiosity of us was a truly remarkable moment. It is very special to see these vulnerable giants of the bush thriving in their habitat and not threatened by any sighting of humans. This has become a rarity in most National Parks unfortunately.
These are my final thoughts for anyone considering this adventure. Exceptional wildlife opportunities (including rare birds and the best sighting of rhino I've experienced), great hospitality and very
comfortable stay.
So go be pampered at Romelda because they are living up to their name ... it certainly is a retreat!
A tour of great Zimbabwe Ruins
Bass Fishing
Game Drive in Mutirikwi National Park
Boat Ride in Mutirikwi National Park
A trip to The Italian Chapel of St Francis of Assisi
Rhino Tracking
Historical Rock Paintings at Chamavara Caves
Kyle Dam Wall on Lake Mutirikwi
Popoteke Gorge
Canoeing
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