Renowned for its historic atmosphere, family-friendly nature, and spectacular setting in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp has received yet another boost with a facelift designed to retain its old-world character while providing modern-day luxury and comfort.
Carried out by Fox Browne Creative, the refurbishment enhanced the 1920 ambiance of the lodge, which is housed partly in a 1920s homestead that dates back to a time when the renowned Big Five game reserve was no more than a cattle farm.
Acknowledging the lodge’s rich history, the focus was on providing an added touch of glamour, rather than altering its well-loved style. The addition of wallpaper murals featuring a bushveld scene has provided a focal point in the 12 guest cottages, while generous personal bars and brand new outdoor seating provides more facilities for guests to relax in their rooms.
The biggest change has been reserved for the bathrooms, which have been entirely re-done. With the old fashioned baths removed, the additional space has allowed for extra large showers and double vanities. The finishes are in keeping with the 1920 style, featuring embossed tiles, ribbed glass and marble. The lodge’s guest areas have been refreshed with new furniture and lighting, as well as wooden floors throughout, all of which provides a warmer and more contemporary edge while retaining the classical feel.
The lodge’s dining room has been entirely re-styled, creating an inviting and luxurious space that now features a coffee bar and additional seating space for meals. While the lodge’s bar has always been a focal point for its special brand of hospitality, this area has also received a brand new look, with an increased seating capacity allowing guests to enjoy lively banter in the evenings while watching the barman prepare their cocktails.
The lodge’s guest areas were once the home of farmer turned conservationist Harry Kirkman, who the property is named after, and photographs, painting and other mementoes dating back to his time have helped to preserve the sense of stepping back in history. Clever use of more modern furniture and accents has elevated Kirkman’s former home to a warm and luxurious, yet authentic, frontier farmhouse feel.
&Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp is situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which shares unfenced borders with the world-renowned Kruger National Park. The reserve is famed for its intimate wildlife encounters, particularly leopard viewing. Game drives traverse an area of 10 500 hectares (26 000 acres) and strict vehicle limits at sightings ensure the exclusivity of the game viewing experiences. Rates at &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp start from ZAR 11 625 per person sharing.
