External Review's Review of Umngazi Hotel And Spa

GOOGLE - Russell Atherstone - 26 September 2022 - - - "UNBELIEVABLE UMNGAZI We have been trying to visit Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa for a long time and always something got in the way. So this time we were adamant that nothing would stop us. On Monday 19th September we packed my wife’s red Volvo XC40 and headed south. As most travellers will know the route from Durban to Port Edward is plain sailing, however after crossing the bridge before the Wild Coast Sun driving conditions deteriorate radically. Be prepared for potholes, unmarked humps, a variety of animals and some hectic drivers who have little or no caring of their fellow road users. Bite the bullet because the Pot of Gold at the end of the journey is worth every hair-raising jolt to the system. A tip to fellow travellers stay behind the local taxis as they know every pothole and speed hump and save you losing your false teeth after hitting that unseen pothole or unmarked hump. Driving through some of the towns on the way is an education and needs patience as you stop whilst vehicles turn, stop for a chat or generally do some surprising things, especially in Flagstaff. Through the many twists and bends that lead you down to the shabby town of Port St Johns take heart your journey is nearly over. Turn right after the bridge entering PSJ and you have a mere 20 kms to go. That feeling when you are welcomed by the smiling guard at the entrance to Umngazi is amazing. You have arrived at your home for the next few days. We were booked into chalet 46 for seven days. After sorting out the ‘red tape’ at reception we were escorted to our secluded sea facing home. Our chalet offered every creature comfort you could wish for, a welcome fruit basket, bar fridge, outdoor shower with sea view, ample cupboard space and entire privacy. I must admit the safe was a challenge as it is on the top of the cupboard and I being 6ft had to go on tip toes to get at it – shorties you are going to need to stand on the chair! We were fortunate being in a Ntabeni Suite so we were entitled to breakfast with others at Emlonyeni Lounge together with guests from the Honeymoon & Emlonyeni suites. The Emlonyeni Lounge offers a children free environment for breakfast and a plunge pool with lounges for relaxing. A great spot for those of us who welcome peace and no screaming ‘ankle biters’. The Umngazi experience offers everything your heart can desire and more. Walks, hikes, kayaking, whale and dolphin watching, boat rides, sunset cruises, games and on and on…………….. Then there is their award winning Spa. Wow, I’m not a Spa fan but I had the most expert Pedi and paraffin wax treatment whilst my wife had full body massages etc until she almost floated back to our suite. Last and not least there is Chef Nico’s divine cuisine! With three scrumptious meals a day Umngazi is not the place to visit if you intend to lose weight! There are also morning and afternoon teas which we avoided because we were so well sated. Together with the great meals is one of the best wine lists I have seen in years – something you don’t expect in the bush. Don’t forget their exquisite cocktails to sip as the sun sets. Nico, you and your Team deserve 10 Stars and could challenge anything some of the 5 star establishments offer. WELL DONE!! PEACE/TRANQUILITY/PAMPERING/SAFETY/SMILING STAFF – sums up just some of the things you can expect at Umngazi! Where else in our beautiful but bruised South Africa can you safely walk on your own at 10 o’ clock at night, sleep with your un-burglar guarded windows open and feel safe? UMNGAZI WE WILL BE BACK!!!!!"