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TThe name Madi a Thava means 'water from the mountains' and this charming 4-star, Fair Trade certified lodge and art gallery offers accommodation and inspiration in the foothills of Limpopo's Soutpansberg mountains.
Madi a Thavha is involved in promoting local arts and crafts, and you can browse through their workshop, view a permanent exhibition of local talent, or head out into the mountains to visit local Tsonga and Venda artists in the area.
Madi a Thavha has 8 guest suites, good food and warm African hospitality. The farmhouse has a spacious lounge and dining room, an open-plan kitchen, verandas, a craft gallery and swimming pool. The furnishings make use of local arts and crafts, reflecting the artistic traditions of the Soutpansberg.
Madi a Thavha also has a small business, called Madi a Thavha Design, which employs local women to produce a range of homeware and accessories made from Venda fabrics and decorated with traditional Tsonga beading and embroidery techniques.
There's also a permanent exhibition of Venda and Tsonga arts and crafts that includes colourful beadwork and embroidery, wooden carvings and jewellery. Madi a Thavha uses Fair Trade principles in the production and marketing of all their products.
Once there, you can also head out along the Artists' Route, a guided tour that takes you to the studios and workshops of sculptors and crafters or cultural performances, and also to some of the natural attractions in the area.
Inspired by myth and legend, the Venda and Tsonga artists and crafters in the north of Limpopo are famed for their woodcarving, pottery and textiles. Acclaimed artists include Jackson Hlungwane, Noria Mbasa, Thomas Kubayi, Phineas Masuvhlele, Sarah Munyai and Rebecca Matibe.
Did You Know?
TTravel tips & planning info
Who to contact
Tel: +27 (0)15 516 0220
Email: info@madiathavha.com
How to get here
Madi a Thavha is 10km west of Louis Trichardt on the R571 toward Vivo.
Things to do
Included among the many attractions in the area are the Phiphidi Waterfall, Lake Fundudzi, Thathe Vondo Holy Forest, the Makhumbani Tea Estate and the Hanglip Nature Reserve.
Take a guided tour of the artists' route that takes you to the studios, workshops and galleries of local Venda and Tsonga artists.
Find out more about the VhaVenda people by visiting the Dzata ruins and Museum of the Dam near Siloam Hospital.
What to pack
In summer it can get very hot so pack accordingly. The area is characterised by summer rain showers and spectacular thunderstorms, so don’t forget your raincoat or umbrella. Always remember to take plenty of sunscreen, no matter what the season. Insect repellent is also recommended.
Where to stay
Madi a Thavha has 8 rooms available for guests.
What to eat
Madi a Thavha offers breakfasts and dinners, and the nearby Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge near Elim has good food and great views too.
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