Easy-going game farm for families

Published Sep 25, 2014

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Durban - Its original Scottish founders named this secluded family-friendly getaway Slievyre (pronounced sleeve-air) which is Gaelic for mountain air.

Today it is co-owned by Richard and Emma Bower – an agricultural consultant and vet respectively – who live between the UK and South Africa.

The management is in the capable hands of Sarah and Harry Harding.

Comprising a collection of stone and thatch rondavels, Slievyre camp is fenced off from the reserve and has perfectly mown lawns with shady trees.

Three of the chalets are twin/double, one sleeps three people and the fifth is a six-bed family chalet.

Outside the fence are 2 000ha of bushveld abundantly stocked with game. A constant natural water supply and lush vegetation provide a secure habitat for almost 200 species of birds.

It is the perfect place for a young family to go on a game drive. There are no long waits to see game. There is always something around the next corner and right up close.

The game drives are reasonably priced and as long as you have a high clearance vehicle you can drive yourself.

You can also walk through the bush – Emma and Richard are constantly adding new ideas to their offering.

Mountain bikers are welcome to cycle through the reserve if they’re up to the challenge. Bass fishing in the dams is popular, and visitors are welcome to bring their own tackle.

For those who prefer to view game from quad bikes, Richard is happy to allow it as long as bikers are responsible.

Back at camp, there is a small playground, a pool with a magnificent view (with a children’s pool too) and masses of space for ball games and bikes.

A small TV lounge offers a good-sized screen and DStv for the fathers who can’t miss Saturday afternoon rugby.

Accommodation is simple and comfortable. The camp takes a maximum of 16 guests, some private and others with shared facilities.

It is all self-catering and the two bomas are well equipped with crockery, cutlery, fridge, stove and excellent huge fireplace-cum-braais, with firewood restocked daily.

Catered options are available if you prefer – home-cooked meals using as many home-grown ingredients as possible.

If you want to venture out of the reserve, the Weenen Game Reserve is within easy travelling distance.

Also worth a visit is the little museum in Weenen, the second-oldest settlement in the province.

Other attractions include Fort Durnford and Giant’s Castle (about 56km) away

The tariffs at Slievyre are reasonable – a suggestion is to pack the whole family from grandparents down, complete with footballs, swing balls, cricket bats, bikes and book out the whole camp for a weekend.

You’re there in less than two hours and it’s an easy drive. It’ll blow away the cobwebs and set you up for the new week.

l Call 036 352 1041, e-mail Slievyre [email protected] visit www.facebook.com/pages/Slievyre-GameFarm/156074061118217?fref=ts

Adrian Rorvik, Sunday Tribune

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