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The healing hands of ancient Venda
Earth Sense Spa, Limpopo
Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge's Earth Sense Spa.
© Shilavuri Lakeside Lodge
Did you know?
Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge is a member of Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa.
Lie back and let the ancient healing of Vhembe work it magic on you. Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge recently opened their new Earth Sense Spa, which has gentle views of the Albasini Dam and Soutpansberg Mountains.
Shiluvari is a great base from which to explore the surrounding local attractions - and when you're done head straight for the Earth Sense Spa. Ku dya hiku engeta, as they say in the local Venda language, 'once you have tasted, you will want to return'.
The Earth Sense Spa features Moya products that celebrate the natural heritage of South Africa by using fynbos and local essential oils treasured for their healing qualities: aromatic and therapeutic essences of Buchu, Zinziba, Cape May, Cape Snowbush, Cape Chamomile, Lanyana and Cape Geranium are used in Moya's products.
Shiluvari is an eco-friendly lodge set on a natural peninsula in 30ha of natural vegetation. The lodge has a series of tasteful chalets decorated using local fabric. The main lodge has a generous porch and a comfortable lounge-bar-dining room area with views onto the lake. The Wood Owl restaurant serves Afro-fusion cuisine.
From Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge you can explore the delights of the surrounding area, known as the Land of Legend. You can take a self-drive tour of the Artists' Route, which takes you to the studios and workshops of local potters, carvers and weavers. Or you can visit some of the famed cultural spots in the area, such as the Holy Forest of Thathe Vondo, home to ancient Venda burial sites, and the sacred Phiphidi Waterfall.
If you're just keen to relax, head for the poolside chairs and mountain views, take a sunset cruise aboard the resident boat, and then round it off with a sensual treatment at the Earth Sense Spa.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge
Tel: +27 (0)15 556 3406
Email: info@shiluvari.com
Website: www.shiluvari.com
How to get here
Polokwane has the closest airport. From Polokwane head north towards Makhado. Just before the town, you'll find a turnoff right onto the R578. After about 17km, you'll get to a 4-way stop in the little town of Elim. Turn left and carry on for just over 4km, and you'll see the sign to Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge on your left.
Around the area
Visit the nearby Thathe Vondo Holy Forest, believed to be sacred in ancient Venda culture, where you can swim and relax at the Phiphidi Falls.
Tours to do
Take a cultural tour of the area with Kuvona Cultural Tours, part of Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge. You can visit local community projects and churches, have your fortune told by a sangoma (witch doctor) and meet local villagers.
Where to stay
Take your pick from one of the lovely cottages at Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge, which are decorated using local fabric and open out onto gorgeous garden views.
What to eat
Shiluvari's Wood Owl restaurant serves delicious Afro-cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seasonal ingredients. Open for breakfast, light lunches and dinner.
Best buys
The gift shop at Shiluvari sells local baskets and pottery, fabrics, jewellery, music and more.