Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa
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Summary of reviewsAquila Private Game Reserve & Spa boasts an idyllic and accessible location close to Cape Town, making it a convenient escape into nature. Visitors frequently commend the stunning views of surrounding mountains, well-maintained gardens and comprehensive facilities, including a large pool and specialized safari drivers. The serene environment is perfect for wildlife viewing and family-friendly getaways, offering a high-quality game reserve experience without venturing far from urban amenities.
The breakfast buffet receives favorable reviews for its variety and quality with many enjoying the diverse options, from hot items to British-style selections. Guest experiences are further enriched by the chance to watch wildlife while dining. Although some logistical issues such as long coffee lines and occasional stocking problems are noted, the breakfast generally enhances the stay.
Dinner at the reserve is met with mixed opinions with guests appreciating the wide variety and local dishes on offer. While many find the meals delicious and plentiful, some note inconsistencies in quality, comparing the buffet to a cafeteria. Unique experiences like dining under the stars receive positive feedback, but there is room for improvement in food replenishment and menu variety over extended stays.
Guest reviews of the rooms are largely positive, highlighting spacious, comfortable accommodations with rustic safari-style decor and impressive views. Higher-end rooms, especially luxury lodges, receive particular praise for their cleanliness and amenities such as outdoor showers and fireplaces. However, some areas need refurbishment and improved maintenance to address issues like outdated furniture and minor cleanliness concerns.
The cleanliness of the facilities varies with some guests praising the well-maintained grounds and clean rooms, while others point out maintenance issues like dirty bathrooms and insufficient outdoor cleanliness. Enhanced management and attention to cleaning standards are recommended to ensure consistent satisfaction.
Staff at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa are generally celebrated for their friendliness, helpfulness and expertise, especially the knowledgeable safari guides who contribute significantly to enjoyable game drives. While most staff members receive commendations, some inconsistencies in reception and dining area service are noted, though the overall sentiment remains positive.
WiFi service at the reserve tends to be unreliable with many guests experiencing poor connectivity, especially in rooms. Although some areas offer stable internet access, upgrades to the WiFi infrastructure would greatly enhance the guest experience.
The spa facilities are a highlight for many visitors, offering a stylish and peaceful environment with professional treatments and a relaxing heated pool. Despite minor concerns regarding cleanliness, the spa significantly enhances the overall stay.
The pool area is well-received with its beautiful surroundings making for a delightful retreat. The resort features an outdoor and a heated indoor pool with the infinity pool and swim-up bar receiving special mentions. While some cleanliness issues and overcrowding at peak times are noted, the overall experience remains positive.
Ample parking, including free spaces and the assistance of dedicated staff members, adds to the convenience and positive experiences of guests.
Overall, Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers a memorable safari adventure with beautiful scenery, well-kept facilities and friendly service, though there are areas for improvement to ensure a consistently high-quality experience for all visitors.
Categories
The breakfast buffet receives favorable reviews for its variety and quality with many enjoying the diverse options, from hot items to British-style selections. Guest experiences are further enriched by the chance to watch wildlife while dining. Although some logistical issues such as long coffee lines and occasional stocking problems are noted, the breakfast generally enhances the stay.
Dinner at the reserve is met with mixed opinions with guests appreciating the wide variety and local dishes on offer. While many find the meals delicious and plentiful, some note inconsistencies in quality, comparing the buffet to a cafeteria. Unique experiences like dining under the stars receive positive feedback, but there is room for improvement in food replenishment and menu variety over extended stays.
Guest reviews of the rooms are largely positive, highlighting spacious, comfortable accommodations with rustic safari-style decor and impressive views. Higher-end rooms, especially luxury lodges, receive particular praise for their cleanliness and amenities such as outdoor showers and fireplaces. However, some areas need refurbishment and improved maintenance to address issues like outdated furniture and minor cleanliness concerns.
The cleanliness of the facilities varies with some guests praising the well-maintained grounds and clean rooms, while others point out maintenance issues like dirty bathrooms and insufficient outdoor cleanliness. Enhanced management and attention to cleaning standards are recommended to ensure consistent satisfaction.
Staff at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa are generally celebrated for their friendliness, helpfulness and expertise, especially the knowledgeable safari guides who contribute significantly to enjoyable game drives. While most staff members receive commendations, some inconsistencies in reception and dining area service are noted, though the overall sentiment remains positive.
WiFi service at the reserve tends to be unreliable with many guests experiencing poor connectivity, especially in rooms. Although some areas offer stable internet access, upgrades to the WiFi infrastructure would greatly enhance the guest experience.
The spa facilities are a highlight for many visitors, offering a stylish and peaceful environment with professional treatments and a relaxing heated pool. Despite minor concerns regarding cleanliness, the spa significantly enhances the overall stay.
The pool area is well-received with its beautiful surroundings making for a delightful retreat. The resort features an outdoor and a heated indoor pool with the infinity pool and swim-up bar receiving special mentions. While some cleanliness issues and overcrowding at peak times are noted, the overall experience remains positive.
Ample parking, including free spaces and the assistance of dedicated staff members, adds to the convenience and positive experiences of guests.
Overall, Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers a memorable safari adventure with beautiful scenery, well-kept facilities and friendly service, though there are areas for improvement to ensure a consistently high-quality experience for all visitors.
Lodge with Infinity Pool
Aquila features a 35-meter saltwater infinity pool with a rim-flow design that blends seamlessly with the surrounding Karoo landscape and mountains. The poolside wet bar enhances the relaxation experience.
Lodge with Swimming Pool
The lodge includes a spa with a heated indoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of game viewing. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the pool area is consistently praised.
Infinity Pool Heated Pool Outdoor Pool
4-Star Lodge
Recognized as a four-star destination, this lodge offers a luxurious and well-equipped experience, including a spa and game reserve activities, providing a high-quality stay.
Lodge with Heated Pool
Located in Touwsrivier, this lodge offers a heated pool as part of its spa facilities, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of wildlife viewing. The unique combination of safari and spa makes it a standout choice.
Luxury Lodge
Lodge for Honeymoon
Lodge with Spa
Romantic Lodge
Lodge with Parking
Lodge with Outdoor Pool
Guest Reviews
Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers an idyllic location, just a short drive from Cape Town, making it easily accessible for a quick safari experience. Nestled in a picturesque setting, the reserve boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains and tranquil natural landscape. The close proximity to Cape Town is highly praised, providing a convenient escape to nature without the need for significant travel.
The location is perfect for viewing the Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitat with many guests highlighting the unique and splendid views from their accommodations and the pool area. The property itself is beautifully maintained with lovely gardens and excellent facilities, including a large pool and dedicated safari drivers.
The serene and peaceful environment of the reserve offers a relaxing retreat, complemented by the convenience of being near Cape Town and the Winelands. This makes it an excellent choice for families, couples and first-time safari-goers looking for a high-quality game reserve experience without straying far from urban amenities.
Overall, the location, along with the beautiful scenery and well-kept facilities, ensures a memorable and satisfying safari adventure at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa.
At Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa, the breakfast experience receives mixed reviews, yet many guests find it to be one of the highlights of their stay. The breakfast buffet is largely praised for its variety and the quality of its offerings with many describing it as delicious, excellent and plentiful. Guests appreciate the wide range of options available, including a selection of hot and cold items and some particularly enjoyed the British-style elements of the breakfast.
The breakfast area provides an added bonus of wildlife viewing, allowing guests to watch animals directly from the breakfast table, which enhances the overall dining experience. Despite these positives, some logistical issues are mentioned, such as long lines for the coffee machine and limited toasting facilities, which can lead to a chaotic atmosphere. Additionally, a few reviews point out that the breakfast selections could be better stocked closer to the end of service hours and that certain items like pastries and bread might not always be fresh.
Overall, while there are suggestions for improvement, particularly in service and replenishment, the breakfast at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa is generally well-received with many guests enjoying the variety and quality of food on offer.
The dinner experience at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa is met with mixed reviews from guests. The buffet style dining offers a wide variety of options with many appreciating the range and quantity of food available. Numerous guests mention that the food was delicious, amazing and satisfactory in terms of variety with local dishes often highlighted for their superior taste.
However, the overall quality of the food is inconsistent, as several reviews point out that the meals could range from good and plentiful to mediocre, basic or even bad. Some guests felt that the buffet cuisine was not up to the expected standards, describing it as mass-produced and lacking in quality. The dining area has been compared to a cafeteria by some, impacting the dining atmosphere negatively.
Unique dining experiences, such as dinner by the pool under the stars, received positive remarks. Despite the vast selection, others noted issues like the lack of proper coordination for food replenishment and the repetitive menu over extended stays.
Overall, while the buffet meals at Aquila provide a variety of choices and some standout dishes, the quality can be hit-or-miss, leaving room for improvement to meet all guests’ expectations consistently.
The reviews for Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa highlight a mixed but generally positive sentiment regarding the rooms. Many guests found the rooms to be spacious, comfortable and well-appointed with several praising the large beds and beautiful views from balconies or terraces. Cleanliness was frequently noted with some rooms beautifully designed and featuring rustic safari-style decor. The accommodation also benefits from its close proximity to facilities, making it convenient for guests.
Several guests appreciated the unique touches such as outdoor showers, fireplaces in cottages and the authentic African interior in some rooms. Rooms in the luxury lodges were specifically mentioned for being clean and boasting great views of the surrounding mountains and pools.
However, some areas could use improvement. Common complaints included the need for refurbishment, outdated furniture, inadequate lighting and minor maintenance issues like cracked bathroom fixtures and pigeon droppings on balconies. Furthermore, a few guests were disappointed by the size of standard rooms and the overall dated appearance of some accommodations.
Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus suggests that booking higher-end rooms or cottages leads to a more satisfying stay with the premier rooms and luxury lodges receiving particular praise. For a comfortable and pleasant experience, guests may want to consider these upgraded options.
Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa has garnered numerous commendations for the comfort of its beds. The consensus among visitors is that the beds are highly comfortable with phrases such as very comfortable, extra-large comfy beds and massive bed frequently used to describe their experiences. Guests repeatedly highlight the cleanliness of the accommodations, mentioning clean and well-presented rooms alongside fresh bedding. Many enjoyed the spacious and well-equipped rooms, finding the view from their bedroom windows admirable, particularly the excellent cabin views. Despite a few mentions of uncomfortable, unsupportive mattresses and occasional dated or dirty furnishings, the predominant sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Visitors found the lodge's offerings, including big rooms and heart flower petals on the bed, added an extra touch of luxury to their stay. Overall, the sleep quality at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa is a notable highlight, making it a preferable choice for a restful getaway.
The cleanliness of Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa has elicited a wide range of guest experiences. On the positive side, many reviews have highlighted that rooms are generally clean, comfortable and spacious. Guests have praised the overall cleanliness and well-kept nature of some of the facilities, noting that the property often meets expectations with clean rooms and bright, spacious accommodation. Some guests have also pointed out that the grounds are beautiful and well-maintained and the daily cleaning service is appreciated.
However, there are notable concerns that guests have raised. Several reviews pointed out that the bathrooms often smelled of sewer and displayed signs of neglect, such as cracked toilet bowls, dirty showers and broken vanity units. The spa area has been described as particularly problematic with bird feathers and waste on the beds and floor, detracting from the overall experience. Outdoor areas, including patios and terraces, were frequently noted as dirty or not well-maintained with bird droppings, leaves and unclean furniture being common complaints.
While some rooms were described as very clean and spotless, others were criticized for being outdated, musty and superficially cleaned. Problems like mould, dirty windows, floors and grubbiness in various areas suggest a disparity in cleaning standards across different parts of the property. Guests have noted that the entire accommodation could benefit from better management and more attentive maintenance to ensure that all areas meet a consistent standard of cleanliness.
In summary, although there are aspects of Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa that meet cleanliness expectations, there are several areas that require significant improvements to provide a consistently clean and well-maintained environment for all guests.
The staff at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa has been largely praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and knowledge. Safari guides, in particular, are noted as exceptionally knowledgeable, professional and eager to provide an informative experience. Many guests highlighted the exceptional service from safari guides like Nigel and Nicholas, who ensured memorable game drives. Staff members across different areas, including the restaurant, bar and spa, were consistently described as friendly, accommodating and attentive, often going out of their way to enhance the guest experience.
The hotel manager also received commendations for being responsive and improving guest experiences based on feedback. The hotel has an overall welcoming ambiance with many staff members coming from nearby villages, contributing to the authentic and warm service. Specific instances of outstanding service included creating special cocktail menus and organizing efficient stays.
However, some reviews did reflect variability in staff performance with certain reception and dining area staff described as unwelcoming or inattentive. Despite this, the general sentiment remains positive with most guests praising the team's efforts to make their stay enjoyable and memorable. Overall, the staff's friendly demeanor and the knowledgeable guides significantly bolster the experience at the Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa.
At Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa, guests have noted mixed experiences with the WiFi service. Many reviews highlight the inconsistency of internet connectivity, often mentioning that the WiFi is unstable and primarily accessible only in certain areas. While a few travelers reported that the internet worked well throughout their stay without interruptions, the majority found the WiFi service to be less reliable, particularly in the rooms where the connection was noticeably poor or non-existent.
Guests mentioned that the lack of WiFi or its weak signal made it challenging to work or stay connected during their visit. Some noted that the WiFi signal was patchy at best with frequent disruptions and weak connectivity. The internet reception was especially poor in standard rooms with many describing it as terrible or horrendous.
In some cases, maintenance work seemed to impact the availability of WiFi, further affecting the guest experience. Despite these issues, there were positive mentions of good WiFi access in certain areas of the resort, indicating that improvements in other zones could enhance overall connectivity. However, the recurring theme from the reviews suggests that an upgrade to the WiFi infrastructure would significantly enhance the guest experience.
Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa provides an exceptional spa experience with a well-maintained, stylish and peaceful facility that guests frequently describe as very nice and amazing. Visitors appreciate the excellent and professional spa treatments, including outstanding massages and facials, which significantly enhance their stay. The spa's heated pool, despite some concerns about cleanliness, offers a relaxing atmosphere and is considered a great addition to the overall experience.
Guests also enjoy the range of amenities, including a modern and appealing spa area and commend the friendly and efficient spa staff. The spa's ambiance and facilities, such as the pool and sauna, are highly regarded, although access to some amenities may require an additional fee. Overall, the spa at Aquila stands out as a highlight for many guests, contributing to a superb and memorable stay at the reserve.
The Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers guests a charming and well-appointed pool area that largely enhances their stay. Guests are particularly impressed by the beautiful surroundings and the overall aesthetics of the outdoor swimming pool, which is both stunning and sizable, making it perfect for swimming and lounging. The pool area is consistently described as lovely and refreshing, providing a welcoming retreat in the heat of the day.
The resort features both an outdoor and an indoor pool with the heated indoor pool adding to the relaxation, especially during colder months. The infinity pool and the swim-up bar are standout features that have garnered positive remarks. Additionally, the pool area is said to offer impressive views and a pleasant ambiance, particularly with the opportunity to dine by the pool under the stars, making for a memorable experience.
However, there are some concerns regarding cleanliness with a few mentions of issues such as a greasy layer on the water surface and slightly muddy conditions. Despite these issues, the pools are generally maintained well and the spa facilities further enhance the experience, providing a relaxing and well-kept environment.
During peak times, the pool area can get crowded, sometimes leading to a shortage of sun loungers and a bit of noise. Nonetheless, the extensive size of the pool and surrounding lounging area helps mitigate congestion issues, ensuring that most guests can find a spot to unwind.
Overall, the pool areas at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa receive high praise for their beauty, size and the added luxury they bring to the guest experience, though a bit more attention to cleanliness and capacity management could perfect an already delightful setup.
Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers several positive features when it comes to parking. Guests appreciate the plentiful and ample parking spaces available on the premises, making it easy to find a spot. The hotel provides the convenience of free parking and there are good parking options available to guests. A dedicated staff member assists by bringing bags to the room and directing guests to parking spots. The location is accessible, adding to the convenience. However, some rooms have views of the parking lot and the main parking area can be challenging for those dragging luggage.
Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers a blend of beautiful location and quality service that typically aligns with the expectations of a four-star establishment. Guests have remarked that the service and amenities align well with what one would expect from a resort of this caliber and the accommodation itself is distinctly four-star in nature. The overall impression left on most visitors is that of a solid four-star experience.
However, there have been notable criticisms. Some guests felt the attention to detail did not fully meet the four-star standard and a few reviews highlighted significant disappointments, particularly with the food quality, which was described as far below expectations for a four-star venue. The perceived value for the price was questioned by some with comments suggesting the experience felt overpriced. Additionally, there were concerns about the property's adherence to COVID-19 safety measures and the soundproofing of rooms.
Amidst the mixed feedback, the beauty of the location and certain aspects of the service appear to be the redeeming features that align with the four-star rating, even if other areas fall short.
The infinity pool at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa stands out with its beautiful design and breathtaking scenic panorama. Guests consistently praise the great views, especially from the infinity pool, noting the lovely experience it offers. Visual impressions are remarkable as some could see the infinity pool right from their rooms, adding to the overall enjoyment. While additional features like outdoor showers and campfires with marshmallow roasting contribute to the ambiance, the infinity pool remains a highlight, described as amazing by many visitors.
Travelers visiting Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa during the colder months will find the indoor spa facilities to be a notable highlight. Within the spa, the heated pool stands out, offering a comfortable and relaxing experience, perfect for unwinding. The indoor heated pool receives consistent praise for its warmth and inviting atmosphere. However, it is important to note that this pool is within the spa area, which has an age restriction, preventing children under 16 from accessing it. Despite this, the presence of a heated pool adds significant value to the spa's offerings, complementing the spacious cottages and other spa treatments that guests have found enjoyable and soothing. While all swimming pools on the property are clean, they are not heated, which might be less appealing during colder periods. Overall, the heated pool in the spa department is a key feature that enhances the leisurely experience at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa.
The outdoor pool at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa has received considerable praise from guests for its stunning and inviting appearance. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, the pool area offers ample space with plenty of seating and outdoor furniture, although some guests mentioned it could be cleaner. The pool itself is large and provides a great space for a leisurely afternoon swim or simply basking in the sun. Visitors appreciated the spacious garden and well-equipped facilities, adding to the overall pleasant experience.
While the pool is a nice feature, some guests noted that it is not heated, making it rather cold during the colder months. Despite this, the atmosphere around the pool remains refreshing and enjoyable with its proximity to the wilderness offering a unique view. The pool area is generally described as fantastic, offering a lovely place to relax and soak up the surroundings.
Overall, the pool area at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa stands out as a significant positive aspect of guests' stays, providing an attractive, spacious and refreshing environment for relaxation.
Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers an experience characterized by luxury and beauty, making it an ideal location for honeymooners or couples seeking a romantic getaway. The resort is frequently described as a dream come true, where guests can enjoy magical experiences under the stars, including stargazing with delightful extras. Its ambiance and amenities make it a perfect choice for special occasions such as honeymoons and Valentine's celebrations. While meticulous cleanliness is noted, the overall impression is that the destination is honeymoon-worthy, providing a memorable and enchanting stay for those in search of romance and tranquility.
Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers a remarkable wilderness oasis with unparalleled hospitality in a luxurious environment. The beautiful lodge and luxuriously furnished cottages create an experience that is truly 5-star rated. High standards and 1st-class facilities ensure that guests enjoy a luxury experience worth the price with the premier luxury cottage living up to high expectations. The modern luxury decor and luxurious family cottages provide a comfortable and classy feel, enhancing the overall luxury tourist safari.
However, while the rooms in the large block-type building are clean, some of the facilities are noted to be outdated and in need of renovation. Despite this, the surroundings and quality pool contribute to a beautiful and unforgettable stay. Although some luxury lodges did not fully meet expectations, the combination of the spa, wildlife park and luxurious accommodations make it a dream come true for many visitors, offering an experience they will cherish forever.
Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa offers an undeniably romantic experience, perfect for couples seeking a tranquil and magical getaway. Guests particularly enjoyed the enchanting dinners under the stars and by the pool, often described as magical and highlighted by stunning sunsets behind the hills. The romantic atmosphere is amplified by star gazing sessions and marshmallow roasting by an open fire, creating beautiful and lasting memories.
The game drives provided an adventurous touch, while the rooms with views of the park allowed guests to spot animals right from their windows, further enhancing the serene and romantic setting. The overall ambiance of the lodge exudes peace and romance, making it an ideal destination for romantic getaways, whether for honeymoons or wedding anniversaries.
The accommodations, including luxurious family cottages, contribute to the romance with their rustic yet elegant decor. The lodge’s peacefulness, combined with its natural beauty, not only promises relaxation but also a romantic escape from the busy world. Whether celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying time together, couples find Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa a perfect and romantic retreat.
Location Show Map
Location
The location is perfect for viewing the Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitat with many guests highlighting the unique and splendid views from their accommodations and the pool area. The property itself is beautifully maintained with lovely gardens and excellent facilities, including a large pool and dedicated safari drivers.
The serene and peaceful environment of the reserve offers a relaxing retreat, complemented by the convenience of being near Cape Town and the Winelands. This makes it an excellent choice for families, couples and first-time safari-goers looking for a high-quality game reserve experience without straying far from urban amenities.
Overall, the location, along with the beautiful scenery and well-kept facilities, ensures a memorable and satisfying safari adventure at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa.
Breakfast
The breakfast area provides an added bonus of wildlife viewing, allowing guests to watch animals directly from the breakfast table, which enhances the overall dining experience. Despite these positives, some logistical issues are mentioned, such as long lines for the coffee machine and limited toasting facilities, which can lead to a chaotic atmosphere. Additionally, a few reviews point out that the breakfast selections could be better stocked closer to the end of service hours and that certain items like pastries and bread might not always be fresh.
Overall, while there are suggestions for improvement, particularly in service and replenishment, the breakfast at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa is generally well-received with many guests enjoying the variety and quality of food on offer.
Dinner
However, the overall quality of the food is inconsistent, as several reviews point out that the meals could range from good and plentiful to mediocre, basic or even bad. Some guests felt that the buffet cuisine was not up to the expected standards, describing it as mass-produced and lacking in quality. The dining area has been compared to a cafeteria by some, impacting the dining atmosphere negatively.
Unique dining experiences, such as dinner by the pool under the stars, received positive remarks. Despite the vast selection, others noted issues like the lack of proper coordination for food replenishment and the repetitive menu over extended stays.
Overall, while the buffet meals at Aquila provide a variety of choices and some standout dishes, the quality can be hit-or-miss, leaving room for improvement to meet all guests’ expectations consistently.
Rooms
Several guests appreciated the unique touches such as outdoor showers, fireplaces in cottages and the authentic African interior in some rooms. Rooms in the luxury lodges were specifically mentioned for being clean and boasting great views of the surrounding mountains and pools.
However, some areas could use improvement. Common complaints included the need for refurbishment, outdated furniture, inadequate lighting and minor maintenance issues like cracked bathroom fixtures and pigeon droppings on balconies. Furthermore, a few guests were disappointed by the size of standard rooms and the overall dated appearance of some accommodations.
Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus suggests that booking higher-end rooms or cottages leads to a more satisfying stay with the premier rooms and luxury lodges receiving particular praise. For a comfortable and pleasant experience, guests may want to consider these upgraded options.
Beds
Cleanliness
However, there are notable concerns that guests have raised. Several reviews pointed out that the bathrooms often smelled of sewer and displayed signs of neglect, such as cracked toilet bowls, dirty showers and broken vanity units. The spa area has been described as particularly problematic with bird feathers and waste on the beds and floor, detracting from the overall experience. Outdoor areas, including patios and terraces, were frequently noted as dirty or not well-maintained with bird droppings, leaves and unclean furniture being common complaints.
While some rooms were described as very clean and spotless, others were criticized for being outdated, musty and superficially cleaned. Problems like mould, dirty windows, floors and grubbiness in various areas suggest a disparity in cleaning standards across different parts of the property. Guests have noted that the entire accommodation could benefit from better management and more attentive maintenance to ensure that all areas meet a consistent standard of cleanliness.
In summary, although there are aspects of Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa that meet cleanliness expectations, there are several areas that require significant improvements to provide a consistently clean and well-maintained environment for all guests.
Staff
The hotel manager also received commendations for being responsive and improving guest experiences based on feedback. The hotel has an overall welcoming ambiance with many staff members coming from nearby villages, contributing to the authentic and warm service. Specific instances of outstanding service included creating special cocktail menus and organizing efficient stays.
However, some reviews did reflect variability in staff performance with certain reception and dining area staff described as unwelcoming or inattentive. Despite this, the general sentiment remains positive with most guests praising the team's efforts to make their stay enjoyable and memorable. Overall, the staff's friendly demeanor and the knowledgeable guides significantly bolster the experience at the Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa.
Wi-Fi
Guests mentioned that the lack of WiFi or its weak signal made it challenging to work or stay connected during their visit. Some noted that the WiFi signal was patchy at best with frequent disruptions and weak connectivity. The internet reception was especially poor in standard rooms with many describing it as terrible or horrendous.
In some cases, maintenance work seemed to impact the availability of WiFi, further affecting the guest experience. Despite these issues, there were positive mentions of good WiFi access in certain areas of the resort, indicating that improvements in other zones could enhance overall connectivity. However, the recurring theme from the reviews suggests that an upgrade to the WiFi infrastructure would significantly enhance the guest experience.
Spa
Guests also enjoy the range of amenities, including a modern and appealing spa area and commend the friendly and efficient spa staff. The spa's ambiance and facilities, such as the pool and sauna, are highly regarded, although access to some amenities may require an additional fee. Overall, the spa at Aquila stands out as a highlight for many guests, contributing to a superb and memorable stay at the reserve.
Pool
The resort features both an outdoor and an indoor pool with the heated indoor pool adding to the relaxation, especially during colder months. The infinity pool and the swim-up bar are standout features that have garnered positive remarks. Additionally, the pool area is said to offer impressive views and a pleasant ambiance, particularly with the opportunity to dine by the pool under the stars, making for a memorable experience.
However, there are some concerns regarding cleanliness with a few mentions of issues such as a greasy layer on the water surface and slightly muddy conditions. Despite these issues, the pools are generally maintained well and the spa facilities further enhance the experience, providing a relaxing and well-kept environment.
During peak times, the pool area can get crowded, sometimes leading to a shortage of sun loungers and a bit of noise. Nonetheless, the extensive size of the pool and surrounding lounging area helps mitigate congestion issues, ensuring that most guests can find a spot to unwind.
Overall, the pool areas at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa receive high praise for their beauty, size and the added luxury they bring to the guest experience, though a bit more attention to cleanliness and capacity management could perfect an already delightful setup.
Parking
4 Star
However, there have been notable criticisms. Some guests felt the attention to detail did not fully meet the four-star standard and a few reviews highlighted significant disappointments, particularly with the food quality, which was described as far below expectations for a four-star venue. The perceived value for the price was questioned by some with comments suggesting the experience felt overpriced. Additionally, there were concerns about the property's adherence to COVID-19 safety measures and the soundproofing of rooms.
Amidst the mixed feedback, the beauty of the location and certain aspects of the service appear to be the redeeming features that align with the four-star rating, even if other areas fall short.
Infinity Pool
Heated Pool
Outdoor Pool
While the pool is a nice feature, some guests noted that it is not heated, making it rather cold during the colder months. Despite this, the atmosphere around the pool remains refreshing and enjoyable with its proximity to the wilderness offering a unique view. The pool area is generally described as fantastic, offering a lovely place to relax and soak up the surroundings.
Overall, the pool area at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa stands out as a significant positive aspect of guests' stays, providing an attractive, spacious and refreshing environment for relaxation.
Honeymoon
Luxury
However, while the rooms in the large block-type building are clean, some of the facilities are noted to be outdated and in need of renovation. Despite this, the surroundings and quality pool contribute to a beautiful and unforgettable stay. Although some luxury lodges did not fully meet expectations, the combination of the spa, wildlife park and luxurious accommodations make it a dream come true for many visitors, offering an experience they will cherish forever.
Romantic
The game drives provided an adventurous touch, while the rooms with views of the park allowed guests to spot animals right from their windows, further enhancing the serene and romantic setting. The overall ambiance of the lodge exudes peace and romance, making it an ideal destination for romantic getaways, whether for honeymoons or wedding anniversaries.
The accommodations, including luxurious family cottages, contribute to the romance with their rustic yet elegant decor. The lodge’s peacefulness, combined with its natural beauty, not only promises relaxation but also a romantic escape from the busy world. Whether celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying time together, couples find Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa a perfect and romantic retreat.
Yes, Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Infinity Pool, Heated Pool, Outdoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa.
No, Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa.
No, Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa doesn't have a gym.
Location Show Map
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