Bellevue Forest Reserve - Elephants Lodge

In the foothills of the Zuurberg Mountains and the lush valleys of the very exclusive Bellevue Forest Reserve, bang in the middle of game reserve country, lies the little village of Paterson - named after its founder, John Paterson. Not quite midway between Shamwari and the Addo Elephant Park, you would be right to assume it an obvious stopover for game viewing enthusiasts, just off the N10 en route to Cradock - its six grain silos a significant mark against the skyline otherwise dominated by thicket.

Bar / Lounge Secured parking Conference facilities Free parking Laundry service Restaurant Room service Spa Wi-Fi Tour / sightseeing desk

Wifi Yes, on entire property

Just over an hour’s drive from the beautiful beaches of the Sunshine Coast and Port Elizabeth, this part of the world is popular for those wanting a true taste of the ‘bushveld’ without the fear of malaria or having to drive thousands of kilometers to experience bushveld country. Valley bushveld (thicket) is endemic to this part of the world, which supports a larger number of insects, birds and animals than any other on earth, so it’s little surprise that the area is given over to so many private game reserves, all of which offer one a chance to experience the beauty of the Greater Addo. 1. The Wildlife Experience one of our exclusive personalized Addo Big 5 game driving safaris, where you will experience breath-taking wildlife sightings as only Africa can provide. Or alternatively experience the plains game close-up on a personalized game drive on our very own Bellevue Forest Reserve. 2. Signature Giraffe Walking Safaris Experience a unique close adventure walk with our Tall 5 and get to observe the tallest mammal on earth in its natural habitat. This experience incorporates a mini game drive on the Reserve to locate the giraffe and affords the guests the opportunity to observe some of the plains game along the way. It is also an exciting and safe safari for young children to experience. These encounters depart twice daily from the Lodge Reception. 3. Celestial Stargazing Safaris Experience the bush at a celestial level. Embark on a personalized guided nature walk with a difference under the African night sky and discover the nocturnal 5 (Aardvark, Aardwolf, Porcupine, Small Spotted Genet, Honey Badger & Bushpig. Whilst learning more about our unique constellations in the Southern Hemisphere with an experienced knowledgeable ranger. 4. Buffalo Encounters Experience a unique opportunity to get up close to our magnificent Cape Buffalo and learn more about the largest bovine species on earth. Our resident breeding herd offers up the chance of allowing guests the rare opportunity to see and learn more about what are considered South Africa’s most dangerous of the Big 5. These encounters depart twice daily from the Lodge Reception. 5. Bush Tapas Tour Experience “happy hour” with a difference. Relax in the bush and savour local drinks and tapas style snacks and breathe in the natural surrounds while observing the beauty Africa has to offer. Available anytime from when the “Crow has flown over” until sundown. A Sundowner Tapas Tour is the perfect time to pop the question too!