The Royal Portfolio has announced that the The Farmstead, an exclusive new safari lodge at Royal Malewane – The Royal Portfolio’s iconic first property – in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park will open May 1, 2019.
Following the recently refurbishment of the existing Royal Malewane safari lodge, construction is now underway at The Farmstead, just a 12-minute drive south of the existing lodge. Liz Biden, owner of The Royal Portfolio who has designed and decorated all the interiors within the collection, has already acquired much of the eclectic furniture and original art for the new lodge. Commenting on the unique style, Liz Biden said, “Expect light oak, tin rooves, wrought iron and gentle hues of blue and white with royal blue, indigo and turquoise patterns adorning the fabrics of comfy sofas on wide verandas.”
Accommodations at The Farmstead will include three Luxury Farm Suites and The Farmhouse – a four-bedroom villa offering private services including a dedicated chef, butler, housekeeper, safari vehicle, ranger and tracker. The main lodge area will have a double spa treatment room, a gym, fire pit and vast deck where guests can relax and take meals while watching the abundant wildlife visiting the adjacent waterhole.
The Farmstead will offer the same exceptional safari experience with Africa’s most qualified guiding team as well as the same flawless service and cuisine that guests have come to expect for more than 20 years at Royal Malewane. Rates are fully inclusive of accommodation, meals, drinks, game drives and bush walks.
The Farmstead tells an important story of community enhancement in Africa. Royal Malewane agreed to a long lease of the land from the local Moletele community, paying a monthly rental to the community as well as a share of revenue as additional income. At the end of the long lease all buildings and the land will revert to the community with the option to work with The Royal Portfolio in perpetuity. Throughout the lease, The Royal Portfolio will employ members of the local community and train them to the highest Royal Portfolio standards while also involving the local community in conservation efforts to preserve the region’s precious wildlife.
