The Royal Portfolio, a collection of South African hotels owned and managed by the Biden family, has launched Waterside at Royal Malewane, a new 12-bedroom luxury safari lodge located in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park.
Nestled in a forest of ornamental fever trees teeming with exotic bird life, Waterside features six free-standing, extra-spacious luxury suites for up to 20 guests. Facilities include a restaurant, bar and main pool overlooking a large dam frequented by wildlife, a one-of-a-kind bush spa with hammam and yoga/meditation room, a gym and an indoor and outdoor entertain area for children.
Waterside was constructed using a contemporary combination of glass, steel and thatch and water features throughout. The bright interiors provide a bold new African context featuring maximalist artwork and theatrical design true to the inimitable style of owner Liz Biden. Nature, in all its richness, is omnipresent at the lodge; peaceful, calm, yet imbued with all the pent-up drama that characterises the African bush.
“Waterside is in enchanting harmony with its natural surroundings, the seasonal moods and hues of the bush,” says Liz Biden. “Colours and textures combine to bring magic and fascination to every space, drawing on the very essence of the wild.”
Guests can also enjoy unrivalled game viewing led by the most qualified guiding team in Africa. The well-known guides and trackers are especially equipped to create an engaging and exciting experience for guests.
“In honouring this natural ecosystem, the new lodge has implemented The Royal Portfolio’s widely adopted promise to operate sustainably and with consideration for the Earth, now, and in the future,” comments Matthew Biden, CEO of The Royal Portfolio. “The core of our purpose and values is to contribute to the conservation of our physical environment, and to invest in the future of our neighbours in the community, with whom we share this natural heritage.”
“A sense of comfortable familiarity carries through the easy flow of the lodge, tying every space together and facilitating the connected guest experience we wanted at Waterside,” says Simon Mandy, Managing Director of The Royal Portfolio. “It features the space and convenience families need to truly relax and unwind, yet it prioritises the privacy and personalised luxury one looks for in a natural sanctuary like this.”
