This campsite has the potential to be an absolute gem, but unfortunately it feels as though the owners or management have lost interest.
We are experienced campers and generally very open-minded and understanding. However, one works hard throughout the year and pays a substantial amount for a camping holiday, and certain basic standards should be met.
1. Arrival & Check-in
The day before arrival, we both emailed and phoned to request an earlier check-in, as we were travelling from Johannesburg and would arrive before the official check-in time. We were assured this would not be a problem, as there were no campers before us.
When we arrived, we were among the first campers on site, yet the area was clearly not prepared. The grounds were overgrown and dirty, with broken and empty beer bottles lying around. Our stand still had garden refuse bags and trailers on it, despite confirmation of our early arrival. We had to wait 15–20 minutes for this to be cleared, while rain was approaching. As a result, we were forced to set up camp in the rain with two small children.
2. Ablution Facilities
Unfortunately, the ablution facilities were extremely disappointing.
Drains were blocked daily
The toilet at our ablution block could not lock
No hand soap in any of the bathrooms
No sanitary bins or even general dustbins
Cleaning seemed to happen only once or twice a day, leaving the facilities consistently dirty
3. Staff Conduct & Noise
Our campsite was directly in front of the staff quarters. Sadly, there was a complete lack of respect for campers. One night, staff partied until around 02:00. On other nights, staff returned from shifts around 22:00–23:00, singing, dancing, and playing music on their phones.
In addition, the reception ladies were very rude and unhelpful.
4. Cleanliness & Smells
There was a strong septic-tank-like smell hovering over the restaurant and nearby campsites. The pools were dirty and had an unpleasant smell. The ponds throughout the resort also appeared neglected, filled with bottles, paper, and debris.
5. Facilities Not Operational
Many facilities are advertised, but it is not disclosed that several are not operational.
The cinema was not working
The Havana bar was never open
The ferry could only be used twice
While I understand that some of these issues may be beyond management’s control, they should be disclosed upfront.
6. Restaurant Stock Issues
The restaurant frequently ran out of basic items:
Ice, then the coffee machine was broken, then no avo, no Richelieu, no Malibu, and eventually no lamb for lamb curry. This became a recurring frustration.
Positive Notes
The restaurant staff were absolutely wonderful — friendly, helpful, and always willing to assist. The male cleaning staff were also very friendly and helpful when approached. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the female cleaning staff, who were often rude.
Conclusion
This resort could be something truly special, but serious attention is needed from management regarding maintenance, cleanliness, staff behaviour, and honest communication. At the price being charged, the current experience does not meet expectations.
