Escaping to Tala

05 August 2009 - 15:17
By Jane Linley-Thomas

One of the many reasons I love living in Durban so much is that a mini car trip can take you into a totally different world.

Recently, on my travels, I went and spent two glorious days at Tala Game Reserve - and they can most certainly call themselves Durban's finest for sure.

As you drive through the entrance boom welcomed by a friendly face and R8 a pocket of farm fresh oranges (buy one get one free nog al) the game viewing begins.

Surrounded by dense African bush it is hard to believe that 60 minutes ago you were in the heart of the Durban city and now instead of pedestrian crossings you are skulking ever so quietly to make way for any one of the fury four legged bush tenants.

On our way to our room we checked out a group of hippos all cuddling together in the rock pool it is so cute to see these man-eating killing machines so comically chilling with their freinds.

We spotted warthog, giraffe, buck of every make shape and form and just before we reached our week end haven we saw a male ostrich who was cruising the bush with a very matter of fact body langugae.

All I can say is that if I saw a male ostrich on heat darting towards me I would high tail it out of there.

At Tala there is a huge variety of accommodation and every time I visit I love to stay at the out of this world Leadwood Lodge.

The rooms are nestled into the landscape, all thatched with underfloor heating, four poster bed, log fire and man-size bath complete with the most awesome African bush view .

As far as food is concerned if you love ribs-I mean LOVE ribs! then head for the rock pool - oy yoh yoh! I would have to say they are some of the tastiest spare ribs I have ever had.

They come with chips in a box but what I do is replace the chips with a glass or two of dry white wine and I am a very happy camper.

Anyone need a shower?