Ant's Nest

Ant's Nest is hosted by wonderful staff that creates an open and friendly atmosphere. Built by Ant and Tessa on the edge of a cliff, this bush home offers breath-taking views across the Waterberg. With spacious rooms and vast folding doors, the thatched lodge blends into the bush while the exotic furniture and brightly coloured African fabrics make it both sophisticated and comfortable. The draped four-poster beds are seven foot wide and each bathroom is spectacular, offering guests sunken baths and waterfall showers. Set in boulders on the edge of the cliff, the swimming pool cascades over the lip of the gorge (also heated), inducing you to relax there for hours. Ant's Hill caters for a maximum of 12 guests and is booked on a non exclusive basis; however, should you wish to book the lodge on an exclusive basis this can be done.Ant's Nest offer the opportunity for some of the greatest game viewing in the African bush ? from horseback. You can canter along open sandy tracks or transverse high ridges with spectacular vistas. The pace can be as fast or relaxed as the rider would like. When you come across game you can often get so close the experience is unforgettable. We have fit, reliable and responsive horses, providing a choice for both the professional rider and the absolute beginner (you do not need to have riding experience to ride with us). The herd of 90 horses is made up of big thoroughbreds and Arab-boerperd crosses and includes some fabulous children's ponies. We use comfortable Maclelan saddles and have English saddles available. Rides are led by two competent guides and the emphasis is on safety at all times. We therefore advise all guests to wear protective head gear whilst out riding. For the enthusiastic rider, you may wish to ride twice daily and turn your trip into a luxury riding safari, alternatively for the less eager; riding can be one of the many activities you can enjoy. Many guests learn to ride here. It is compulsory for all clients to wear head protection gear whilst riding. Should clients not have their own riding hats to bring with them, we do have a selection of various sizes at both lodgesGuided bush walks:For those who prefer walking, our guides will guide you through the bushveld on foot. These walks are informative and interactive, enabling guests to gain knowledge of the flora, fauna and animals resident on the reserves. Learning to recognize tracks is great fun. Whilst these walks can be in the form of a gentle stroll, the more energetic can hike over the plains and down impressive gorges.Game drives:Our guides will be available to take you out in an open 4x4 Landcruiser either for a morning or afternoon game drive or using a spotlight at night to find elusive nocturnal animals, such as the rare brown hyena, aardvark and porcupine.Children:Ant's Nest and Ant's Hill will give your children a life-changing experience. Special activities are laid on for children and teenagers who enjoy getting involved in the running of a game reserve. Children of all ages can join their parents on all activities or can alternatively be taken out separately. Toys and games are available to keep young ones occupied between activities and the lawned gardens surrounding both bush homes create a safe haven for them to play in. Special food and meal times can be arranged and children are welcome to come to supper in their dressing gowns. While the variety of activities keep all well entertained you will all learn a great deal about wildlife and gain inspiration to last you a lifetime. It's quite educational, riding lessons are also available for the novice rider. Many children learn to ride and how to appreciate the environment here.Other activities:Both bush homes make for a fabulous wedding venue and we can tailor make your special day.We are very happy to take you through the Waterberg to see other interesting sites including:Whilst not traveling around you can lounge by the pool or enjoy a massage. We have a selection of books available and a curio shops stocked with original, handmade crafts. We go to a historic thatched church on Sundays where you can meet local people and see the 1914 building designed by Sir Herbert Baker. Children can attend a colorful Sunday school where the Sotho children sing choruses in rousing harmony.We are happy to take you shopping in the local town where you will find a wide variety of local and African arts and crafts.Wining and Dining: We take great pride in our sumptuous home cooking, dining outside whenever possible under shady trees. We often end morning game activities with a bush lunch, while at night we sit around open fires under the stars. Excellent South African estate wines are served. We can cater for all dietary requirements.