Review of Elephant House 3*

DNA… do nothing at all! It is just what Addo Elephant House wisely invites you to in its welcoming letter left on your room. Laze yourself in the various courtyards lounges and verandas browsing old National Geographic magazines, hearing the birds singing or warm up by the gas fire place or the winter warming morning sun. Lovely and authentic place, no fake antique deco atmosphere but original aged  but functional pieces of furniture surround you while sipping a glass of champagne or a delicious peppermint tea in cozy sofas all around. It is all British colonial home style. It is winter but sunny and crowdless. The  Sidney room has its own veranda with running water taps into a rectangular fountain. In summer it must be very refreshing sitting there to chat or read in a more private atmosphere. Colonial type rooms are rustic, warm ample en suite rooms with AC and an electric heater. Bamboo ceiling painted in white is a concern at first, but in three days I found nothing but a tiny cricket in the shower floor.   There is a mosquito spray and repelent in the wardrobe for such a threat! It is time for you to think thou, that you are in a remote area in the country side! Spotless bed lining with that fresh smoky country smell.   Bathrooms face to an enclosed patio so windows don't have curtains. A bit annoying to pudorous minds but nothing that two hanging bathrobes against the windows can not solve.   Breakfast and dinner was served in a dark diningroom in mid light always on. A gas heater warmed the area. Instead, we could choose our light lunch to be served in any of the verandas we preferred. Fresh fruits and vegetables of their own produce, home made loaf bread, healthy and tasty meals of a fixed menu.   Breakfast is a must! Delicious and abundant.   Addo area has couple good restaurants around you can explore if you look for a more sophisticated cuisine. Addo Elephant House also has spacious and modern cottages for families across the road from the main house, with their own pool and plenty of room for kids to run. Mild excitement is a few minutes away at Addo Elephant Park where the game watching thrill is only the uncertain but always expectant sight of the lion. Never saw one but we enjoyed the two game drive safaris arranged by Elephant House, picnic included with wine, tea or coffee and the joyous but knowgeable comments from good old Aubrey, our game driver. The warm smile and solicitous service of all the personnel in charge of such a lovely place is what really remains in your memories. Perfect retreat for anyone.