Silverton-29.82603700,
30.53088200,
R603 Umbumbulu Road, Eston, Kwazulu-natal(Show on Map)
8.5
Very Good
➔
➔
Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviewsTala Collection Game Reserve is a stunning destination nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, conveniently located near Durban. This serene hideaway promises a therapeutic escape into nature, making it an ideal spot for those seeking privacy, tranquility, and romantic getaways. The reserve's picturesque environment, complemented by its authentic African style, provides an idyllic backdrop for enjoying spectacular sunsets and peaceful relaxation.
Guests are treated to impressive culinary experiences, particularly at Paperbark Lodge, where meals are praised for their quality and affordability. The dining experience is a memorable aspect of many visitors' stays, despite some areas needing improvement, such as timely service and menu variety. Breakfast offerings are generally well-received, though they could benefit from catering to a broader range of dietary needs.
The accommodations at Tala, including beautifully designed cottages and rooms, are spacious and comfortable, offering stunning views of the reserve's rich wildlife. Although some minor maintenance issues are noted, the overall allure and serene environment leave a lasting positive impression. The property's commitment to guest comfort is reflected in its high-quality bedding and charming decor.
The reserve's staff are frequently commended for their warmth, professionalism, and dedication to providing excellent service, significantly enhancing the guest experience. While there are areas where service and facility maintenance could be optimized, the staff's attentive nature contributes greatly to visitors' satisfaction.
Tala also offers appealing recreational features like the communal and private pool areas, which are highly praised for their beauty and maintenance. However, connectivity remains a concern, with Wi-Fi and cellphone reception primarily restricted to the lobby area.
The Reserve excels in creating a romantic atmosphere, making it a favored destination for couples and honeymooners. The breathtaking views and intimate settings offer a memorable retreat for those celebrating love, although clarity on certain services and charges could enhance the experience.
Overall, Tala Collection Game Reserve stands out as a hidden gem, offering a harmonious blend of nature, relaxation, and hospitality, making it a memorable destination for travelers seeking an escape into the heart of nature. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Lodge for Honeymoon
Romantic Lodge
Lodge with Swimming Pool
Outdoor Pool
Lodge with Parking
Lodge with Outdoor Pool
Room Types
Classic Room - Paperbark LodgeThis lodge features 12 rooms, each with an en suite bathroom and air conditioning. Some rooms also feature an outdoor shower.
A restaurant and rock pool are located at this lodge, and guests can enjoy views of the open plains.
Luxury Cottage - Leadwood Cottage (adults only)This lodge provides 6 luxury cottages, each remotely located in the bush. They feature a private viewing deck and an en suite bathroom.
Guests can make use of the restaurant located at Aloe Lodge.
Please note, children cannot be accommodated at this lodge.
Five-Bedroom House - Figtree HouseThis five-bedroom house features a fully-equipped kitchen, dining room, BBQ facilities and a lounge. Each of the bedrooms has an en suite bathroom.
There is also a conference room, and guests can make use of the restaurant located at Aloe Lodge.
Luxury Suite - Leadwood Manor (adults only)This lodge features 3 luxury suites with floor-to-ceiling-windows, four-post beds and en suite bathroom.
This lodge provides a swimming pool and a shared lounge area where guests can enjoy drinks from the bar.
Please note, children cannot be accommodated at this lodge.
Presidential Suite - Leadwood Manor (adults only)This suite features a private lounge and viewing deck. It has floor-to-ceiling-windows, four-post beds and an en suite bathroom.
This lodge provides a swimming pool and a shared lounge area where guests can enjoy drinks from the bar.
Please note, children cannot be accommodated at this lodge.
Family RoomA seating area with a flat-screen TV, a desk, a terrace and a private bathroom are available in this family room. The unit has 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
8.5
Very Good
Location
Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes and a serene environment, Tala Collection Game Reserve offers a stunning location that promises a therapeutic escape into nature. The reserve, adorned with beautiful landscape views, is conveniently situated close to Durban, making it easily accessible for travelers. Visitors are treated to magnificent and breathtaking views overlooking the reserve, where wildlife grazes peacefully, providing a glimpse of the region's diverse fauna.
The setting is not only ideal for those seeking privacy and tranquility but also caters to romantic getaways, with accommodations like Leadwood Lodge offering secluded pools and outdoor showers that enhance the experience. The location boasts authentic African style, with facilities that exude beauty and charm, perfect for couples looking to unwind in a peaceful ambiance.
Guests can indulge in fantastic meals at the lodge, enjoying the spectacular scenery without needing to venture elsewhere. With its serene surroundings and welcoming atmosphere, Tala emerges as a hidden gem where peace and relaxation reign supreme. The reserve's picturesque environment offers an idyllic backdrop for sunset viewing, ensuring that every evening is a celebration of nature's beauty. Whether it's the stunning views, the therapeutic peace, or the warm welcome from the gorgeous-spirited staff, everything about Tala is truly breathtaking.
Breakfast
Nestled in the picturesque Tala Collection Game Reserve, the breakfast options have received varied feedback from guests. Many visitors have praised the breakfast as delicious and fresh, offering a flavorful start to their day. The buffet is highlighted as being great, with some considering it the best part of their vacation. Numerous guests described the breakfast as fantastic, superb, and even fit for kings and queens, indicating a level of satisfaction with the food quality and experience.
However, there are criticisms regarding the breakfast menu's variety and catering to dietary requirements, with some guests feeling the options were limited and the choices boring for the price paid. Specific complaints include overcooked omelets, burnt bacon, and a non-functional coffee machine, which detracted from the overall enjoyment for some. Despite these issues, the majority of reviews reflect positively on the breakfast experience, with a particular appreciation for the plentiful and fresh offerings that add value to a stay at Tala Collection Game Reserve.
Dinner
Tala Collection Game Reserve offers an impressive culinary experience that extends beyond its wildlife adventures. The restaurant, particularly at Paperbark Lodge, is consistently praised for serving excellent food. Guests often highlight the quality and affordability of the meals, making dining a memorable part of their stay. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are superbly prepared, with dishes like liver starters and tender lamb shanks standing out as scrumptious highlights. Many guests find the food to be top class, noting its well-prepared nature and delicious flavors.
However, the dining experience is not entirely without its downsides. Some reviews mention long waits for food and occasionally average quality meals, suggesting a need for improvement in kitchen management. There are concerns over some dishes being pre-cooked, impacting freshness. Service at Leadwood Lodge has been commended alongside excellent food, yet logistical hiccups such as missed dinner pick-ups also surface in guest feedback.
Tala Collection Game Reserve excels in providing exceptional meals that complement its scenic environment, though some guests have pinpointed areas for improvement. Overall, the dining experience garners praise, adding a delightful dimension to the visit.
Rooms
Tala Collection Game Reserve offers a delightful escape with its stunning rooms and picturesque surroundings. Many guests praise the spacious and clean accommodations, which are beautifully designed and comfortably appointed. Visitors find the rooms to be large, with several noting the pleasant outdoor areas that add to the experience. The cottages, especially those near the river, stand out for their gorgeous design and prime location, providing an idyllic retreat. The views from the rooms are spectacular, often offering glimpses of the reserve's rich wildlife.
Despite a few noted areas for improvement, such as room temperature and some maintenance issues, guests overwhelmingly appreciate the serene environment. The decor is often highlighted for its aesthetic qualities, and the bedding is described as high-quality. The property’s proximity to major towns, coupled with its secluded feel, makes it a convenient yet peaceful getaway.
Some guests experienced communication challenges prior to their stay, but the overall allure of the reserve, from its beautiful interiors to the thrill of game drives and dining experiences, leaves a lasting impression. The commitment to a comfortable stay shines through, making Tala Collection Game Reserve a worthy destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Beds
The beds at Tala Collection Game Reserve receive high praise from guests for their exceptional comfort. Many reviews highlight the beds as extremely comfortable, often noting their impressive size. The spacious cottages and tranquil interiors add to the overall restful experience. In addition to the beds, the rooms are clean and accompanied by friendly, attentive staff, making for a peaceful and enjoyable stay.
Cleanliness
Nestled within a stunning natural setting, the Tala Collection Game Reserve offers beautiful gardens and wildlife that contribute to its appeal. Many visitors appreciate the clean rooms and neat facilities that align with expectations for a comfortable stay amidst nature. However, several areas require attention and maintenance to enhance the overall guest experience. While some guests had no issues with room cleanliness, others encountered areas that needed improvement, such as bedding and shower cleanliness. The property's charm is evident, yet there are signs it needs a little more care, from dusting to addressing maintenance issues. Feedback suggests torn towels and rooms with an unpleasant smell are areas needing improvement. Some guests also expressed concerns regarding service availability and security features in their accommodations, indicating these could be optimized. Despite these challenges, the property continues to capture the interest of those seeking a stay surrounded by the beauty of a game reserve.
Staff
At Tala Collection Game Reserve, the staff consistently shine through as a key highlight of the guest experience. Visitors frequently commend the team for their friendliness, professionalism, and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay. The staff is described as accommodating and ready to assist at any moment, demonstrating both warmth and remarkable hospitality. Managerial staff members, like Gugu, receive high praise for their approachable and proactive demeanor in addressing guest needs.
However, while the majority of interactions with the staff seem to be overwhelmingly positive, there are occasional mentions of service improvements needing attention, particularly regarding the maintenance of facilities. Despite these few concerns, guests generally enjoy the attentive and welcoming environment fostered by the staff, contributing significantly to the overall satisfaction of their stay. The blend of beautiful scenery, delectable food, and the approachable nature of the staff makes Tala Collection Game Reserve a memorable destination for many travelers.
Wi-Fi
Visitors to Tala Collection Game Reserve have expressed several concerns regarding the Wi-Fi and network connectivity at the property. Guests frequently noted that the Wi-Fi service does not extend to the cottages and rooms, leaving them without internet access. Moreover, the signal often appears to be spotty and unreliable, with many guests mentioning a lack of cellphone reception in the cottages. The connectivity is generally limited to the lobby area, requiring guests to go there to access the internet. While the reserve offers an escape into nature, those relying on seamless internet and network connectivity might find these challenges significant.
Pool
Tala Collection Game Reserve offers a delightful retreat with stunning views and a sense of seclusion, all conveniently located just over an hour from Durban. Guests frequently highlight the pool area as a standout feature of the reserve, describing it as exceptional, lovely, and well-maintained. The infinity pool at the manor is often praised as a gorgeous spot, providing a serene setting that enhances the overall experience. Visitors appreciate the private pool options available, particularly at the Leadwood Lodge, where guests can enjoy the intimacy of a secluded setting. The communal pool, though needing minor touch-ups like a repaint, maintains its charm as a clean and inviting place to unwind. While certain accommodations, such as those labeled 'Paperback,' may require improvements and the pool's temperature could benefit from solar heating, the remarkable dining options and breathtaking scenery make for a memorable stay in the heart of nature.
Romantic
Tala Collection Game Reserve offers a truly romantic experience, ideal for honeymooners and couples seeking a memorable getaway. The breathtaking views create a stunning backdrop, perfect for sharing intimate moments with a partner. Guests appreciated the romantic ambiance enhanced by dim lighting and the thoughtful use of candles, adding an extra touch of romance to their stay. Furthermore, each unit provides an excellent level of privacy, making it an ideal retreat for a couples' escape.
The Reserve has also been chosen as a wedding venue, indicating its special significance for many celebrating love. Though some encountered issues with service and clarity on certain charges, the beauty and romantic atmosphere of the location left a lasting impression on couples. While there's room for improvement in service delivery, couples seeking a romantic setting will find the reserve's ambiance and natural allure captivating.
Yes, Tala Collection Game Reserve has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Tala Collection Game Reserve.
No, Tala Collection Game Reserve doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Tala Collection Game Reserve.
No, Tala Collection Game Reserve doesn't have a gym.