The Hotel

Tucked away in the magnificent Mfule River Valley, in the sheltering embrace of a high cliff, lies Simunye. Here, one can experience the fascinating cross-cultural influences that have emerged since Zulu and Western culture first interacted, back in the pioneer days. On arrival at the old trading store, GUESTS park their cars in a guarded security area. After receiving a short overview of the history of the area, they proceed either by horse, ox-wagon, donkey cart, on foot (or by 4x4 on request) on a 1-hour trail accompanied by a guide.

Feel the pulse of yesteryear as you journey to the secluded lodge at sunset. After sundowners and dinner, sit spellbound round the fire as Zulu legends unfold and the rhythmic drumbeat of Africa fills the night. Soak in your very own steaming rock bath and drift off to sleep in stone-walled rooms to the tranquil sounds of Zululand. Journey with us in the footsteps of early pioneers, visit old ruins that speak from the past and be part of the vibrant culture that lives unto this day.

Protea Hotel Simunye Zulu Lodge - Unveiling the Essence of Zulu Adventure

Features

Simunye is a Zulu lodge that offers adventure and relaxation away from it all. Different cultures come together in an atmosphere of yesterday.

Breakfast is a typical farm breakfast and dinner is either a barbecue or traditional Zulu food.

Sporting and Leisure Facilities
Include swimming, trails, farm life, horseriding and culture tours.

Conference Facilities
A new conference centre built up into the cliffs, overlooking a magnificent sweep of the river, caters for up to 40 delegates.

Location

Protea Hotels Simunye is an exclusive and unique "lodge", a declared Natural Heritage Site in the heart of Zululand. The turn off is located between Eshowe (30 kms away) and Melmoth (20 km away), nestled at the bottom of a cliff on the banks of the Mfuli river.

The departure point is the Trading Store (leaving at 15h30). From here, your journey is by horse, donkey cart or ox cart.

Attractions

An in-depth look into the lifestyle of today's rural Zulu, with the rolling hills of Zululand as a backdrop, the rivers and ravines are rich in bird life and small game.

Activities include

1. Visits to Zulu homes and ceremonies when they are available
2. Getting to know a true Sangoma and the use of natural remedies, herbs and medicines
3. Vibrant Zulu dancing - join in if you wish - or just relax as the drumbeat draws you into the pulse of Africa
4. Discover the mysteries of Zulu courtship, love and marriage and the messages hidden in beadwork and learn the symbolism of a bride carrying a spear, a lantern and wearing a leopard skin

Rooms

Accommodation has a real pioneer feel to it. Each room is uniquely crafted ... Zulus build by instinct, with no plans and comprise six rock rooms in the pioneer settlement, 5 lodge rooms and 5 contemporary Zulu huts in the Zulu muzi.