Woodall Country House & Spa

Description

Accommodation

Woodall offers luxury Boutique Hotel accommodation in South Africa's Eastern Cape. Opening onto beautiful rose or indigenous gardens, alive with the calling of birds, the rooms at Woodall are as seeped in luxury as they are in comfort. Each room is spacious, private, and equipped with every convenience from climate control to internet access. Other features include private verandas, en-suite bathrooms, mini hi-fi’s, mini-bars, sumptuous furnishings, crisp percale linen, bathrobes, telephones, electronic safes and CD players. All have private outdoor showers for an enlivening experience not to be missed. Twin or King bedded rooms available. There are also two family units.

African Lodge in Luxury Country Cottages
"Havens of Tranquillity"

Luxurious rooms and cottages are private and spacious with an understated elegance and a classical feel. Each room is individually designed and decorated with an air of bygone romance.

Suites
"The Luxury of Space"

Luxurious suites with a contemporary feel are airy and furnished using natural materials and raw silks. Light and spacious, completely private, each suite offers understated refinement: spacious bedrooms, separate sitting, dressing areas, expansive bathrooms complete with double outdoor showers and private pools. There is one family suite.

Woodall Country House & Spa

Our Rating out of 10 Enquire now View Rates

Attractions

WOODALL COUNTRY HOUSE SAFARIS AND TOURS

Woodall's luxury open topped land cruiser departs daily on a number of excursions: Our highly experienced and qualified guides, with an intimate knowledge of the Addo area, include a bird and tree expert with a MSc Degree in plant sciences; a local historian whose knowledge and experience of the local area is unsurpassed; a wildlife and agricultural conservationist. These guides offer personalised tours with emphasis being placed on individual interests and comfort. The following highly recommended Safaris and Drives are offered:

Morning Drive: Summer (08h30 - 13h00) / Winter (09h00 - 13h30)
Afternoon Drive: Summer (14h30 -18h30) / Winter (14h00 - 18h00)

ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK

Addo is the best place to get up close and personal with the biggest land mammal - the Park is home to the densest population of elephant in the world. Other mammals include Lion, Hyaena, Cape buffalo, and Black Rhino, as well as Zebra, Jackal, Warthog, Suricate and numerous species of Antelope. Over 150 bird species have been recorded in Addo and there are around 600 different plant species. Addo is also home to the endangered dung beetle. Whether you experience the park from the comfort of your own vehicle or on a game drive with an experienced guide, the chances are you will have close encounters with the elephant. To make the most of the park, be sure to bring binoculars, camera, walking shoes and wildlife reference books

Game viewing from your own vehicle: Explore more than 75 kilometres of road through prime wildlife country. There are a number of lookout points at waterholes in the area. Opening hours change according to season. No reservation required.

Conservation fee: R140/adult and R70/child under 12yrs
Hop on guides on request – R140 for two hours

Sundowner Drive: Departs from Addo Elephant Park Reception.

Time: Nov – March: 18h00 – 20h00 April – Oct: (starting time changes according to season.)

Please check with reception for current times. Enjoy a sundowner drink while the sun sets after another exciting day of game viewing in Africa. Children 6+ years allowed on drives – pay half price. Possible sightings: Kudu, Red hartebeest, Eland and Duiker Antelopes, Zebra, Buffalo, Jackal, Hyaena, Lions, Birds, Elephant

Night Drive: Departs from Addo Elephant Park Reception.

Time: Nov – March: 20h00 - 22h00 April – Oct: 18h00 - 20h00

Please confirm with reception for current times. Lion, Buffalo and Black Rhino and a host of nocturnal animals may be encountered. Possible sightings: Scrub Hare, Spring Hare, Porcupine, Striped Polecat, Spotted Genet, Duiker, Kudu, Eland, Buffalo, Jackal, Hyaena, Lions, Aardvark, Aardwolf, Caracal

Other Addo Elephant Park Drives:
Possible sightings: Elephants, Warthogs, Ostrich, Red Hartebeest, Kudu, Zebra, etc.

• Sunrise Nov – March: 06h00 - 08h00 April – Oct: 07h00

• Morning 09h00 - 11h00

• Midday 12h00 - 14h00

• Afternoon 15h00 - 17h00

SCHOTIA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE: (45 minute drive from Woodall)

"Tooth & Claw" Safari:
Time: 15h00 - 19h00 followed by dinner

Schotia is the oldest private game viewing reserve in the Eastern Cape, and offers one of the best chances to see lions in the wild. The Tooth & Claw is a guided drive in open topped vehicles. It begins in the late afternoon, and returns after nightfall (late afternoon and evening game viewing is often the most rewarding time of day for game viewing as this is when animals are at their most active). This is especially the case with Lion which are generally nocturnal hunters. Schotia is also home to Zebra, Wildebeest, Warthog, Jackal, Crocodile, Giraffe and a large variety of Antelope. The drive is followed by a traditional meal served under the stars in a thatched open air lapa

AMAKHALA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE: (± 1 hour drive from Woodall)

Time: Summer: 12h00 – 18h00 Winter: 11h00 -17h00

Feel the heartbeat and rhythm of Africa as you become part of a Big 5 Safari Adventure on Amakhala Game Reserve. Guided by experienced rangers on open Land Rovers Amakhala offers a product aimed at providing visitors with an experience of the diverse wildlife and landscape including: The Big 5, Black Wildebeest, Cheetah, Giraffe, Zebra and numerous other Antelope. The excursion commences from Reed Valley with a welcome drink and a Game drive through the reserve enjoying spectacular views before descending into the Bushman’s River Valley. This is followed by lunch - authentic African cuisine with a mouth watering buffet served in the true African way before departing on a tranquil 45 minute river cruise. After the river cruise enjoy a further game drive through other parts of the reserve making your way back to Reed Valley

PUMBA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE:  (± one hour drive from Woodall)

Time: 07h00 – 09h30 (includes breakfast) and 16h00 – 18h00

Pumba Day Safaris offer sightings of the Big 5, against a backdrop of thornveld, grassland, thicket and forest vegetation. Apart from White Lion, Giraffe, Leopard, 22 species of Antelope, this is also a bird lovers' paradise with 200 plus bird species. Safaris consist of a 2 hour game drive, meal, drinks then a further one and a half hours game viewing

ADDO ELEPHANT BACK SAFARIS: (± one hour drive from Woodall)

A unique opportunity to walk/ride with Elephants, and to be at one in nature while in the company of these awe-inspiring gentle giants. Addo Elephant Back Safaris is situated in the pristine valleys of the Zuurberg Mountains within the recently proclaimed Greater Addo Elephant Park. This area is regarded as Africa’s most biologically diverse, supporting 4 of the 7 biomes or eco regions in Southern Africa. During the rides, informative guides will provide information on this unique area. After the walk relax at the boma overlooking the elephants’ favourite water hole

Walk / Ride with the Elephants:
Times: 08h00, 11h00 and 15h30. Duration is two hours.

Walk / Ride with the elephants includes walk, ride, drinks and snacks. Elephants can be observed in their natural surroundings. Transfers are available: R350/person return

Elephant Back Safari Fly in:
Includes return flight, lunch in unique bush restaurant, elephant safari. Duration: 3 hours (excluding flying time)

HIKING IN THE ADDO AREA

Addo Park Discovery Trail: This unique 2 km trail through typical Addo thicket has been specially designed for disabled visitors and is suitable for wheelchairs

Zuurberg Nature Trails: (1 hour and 4 hours). These trails wind through fynbos and deep kloofs within unspoiled indigenous forests, home to a wide range of game and birds, as well as various vegetation types including impressive cycad and yellowwood populations. Zuurberg is open from 07h00 - 16h30

ADDO HORSE TRAILS

Addo Park:

Breathtaking horse trails through Addo allow you to become one with the African bush. In the Nyathi section for the park – encounters with large game are possible. There are no lions or hyenas in this section. Age 10yrs + only

Time: 14h00 - 17h00: Three hour guided horse trail within the elephant park with rare opportunities of viewing game close up

Time: 08h30 - 10h30: Two hour guided horse trail next to the game fence

Zuurberg Mountain Horse Trails:

Conducted in the Zuurberg Mountain section of the park – no encounters with large game, but beautiful scenic views of the mountains

MOUNTAIN TOUR

Time: 09h00 – 16h00

Escape from civilization for a day and experience the peace and tranquility of life off the beaten track. Guests are collected from Woodall and driven by 4X4 vehicle into a remote, pristine, and lush forest section of Addo Elephant National Park, deep in the heart of the Zuurberg Mountains. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along a mountain stream that bypasses caves, waterfalls, rock pools and a natural fountain. For a more relaxed experience, you can also choose to kick back and take in the breathtaking scenery, relax in the picturesque surroundings, and float on a tube in a lovely mountain pool. More energetic guests are able to hike through indigenous forests and open grasslands that are rich in fauna and flora. This is a truly personalized experience with unspoilt nature. Lunch is served at a Mountain Pool where you can relax on a floating tube and enjoy this birdwatchers paradise.
Other options on the Mountain Safari include hiking, mountain biking, and freshwater fishing which can be included into your itinerary

CANOE RIVER SAFARI

Guests are collected from Woodall and are taken for a very scenic paddle down the Sunday's River. Explore a different side of Addo on the river - view game and birds along the riverbanks (great birding here too - especially for riverine species including seven King Fisher species as well as Goliath Herons and African Fish Eagles) - while you drift down some of the most scenic parts of the Sunday's River in a custom designed, comfortable and safe canoe (no paddling experience needed).

MORNING PADDLE: 09h00 – 12h00
SUNDOWNER PADDLE: 15h30 – 06h30

ADDO BEACH SAFARI

Time: 08h30

ADDO FISHING SAFARI

Try your hand at fresh and still water fishing for Bass deep in the Zuurberg Mountains. Learn the art of spinning or fly-fishing from a river bank, canoe and float tube. No experience necessary as your capable guides will make fishing easy and pleasurable. Also a bird watchers paradise

SPECIALISED TOURS

Tailor-made birding and dendrological tours in the Addo region can be arranged with highly experienced specialists within these fields.

PENGUIN CRUISES (Departs Port Elizabeth Harbour)

Penguin Island Cruise 

Discover the marine life of Algoa Bay off Port Elizabeth, one of South Africa’s most diverse bays….. Bryde’s whales, bottlenose and humpback dolphins can be seen almost all year round; Southern right whales visit every year to give birth to their calves and mate; and humpback whales pass through during their annual migration. Hundreds of common dolphins often come into the bay to feed. Add to this the Cape fur seal, several species of shark and seabird, as well as a visit to St Croix Island Marine Reserve to see the largest breeding colony of the endangered African Penguins

Sundowner Cruise
Time: Anytime after 14h00. The most popular time is from 17h00 until 18h30. Duration: 1.5 hours.

The tour starts with a harbour cruise and a full safety briefing and then takes a leisurely cruise along Port Elizabeth's beautiful beachfront. The cruise passes the Cape Recife Lighthouse where refreshments are served. Cape Fur Seals and numerous sea birds may be seen and sometimes whales or schools of dolphins are encountered

TRANSFERS:

The following transfers are available:

Port Elizabeth Airport, Amakhala, Pumba, Kwantu, Schotia, Addo Elephant Park, Grahamstown, East London

Woodall Country House Spa

The Woodall Spa, a sanctuary for relaxation, personal rejuvenation and serious pampering flows onto a full size pool, fringed with palms and a waterfall. We pride ourselves on our uncompromising approach to wellness. Our dedicated and professional therapists are on hand to make the spa experience as memorable as possible. The latest techniques of the modern world are meticulously combined with age-old remedies to create an unforgettable African touch, in an exceptional environment where relaxation comes easily.

Enjoy the healing benefits of water in our various hydro therapies. Allow the underwater jets of the hydro bath to invigorate your muscles. Choose from a variety of milks or essential oils to suit your mood and to enhance your hydro experience.

The sauna and steam room will aid in stimulating circulation and preparing the body for massage.

Our indoor wet area features the stunning Vichy and Chromotherapy showers. Relax on a heated marble slab, while the gentle buffing of a Geranium and Pine body polish, smoothes you skins’ surface, and varying pressure in the warm water washes it clean away.

Various packages are available to suit your needs.

Recharge in our tranquil setting and leave feeling pampered, relaxed and rejuvenated. Once you have experienced a wonderful Spa experience, even more awaits you. The rest of our team will treat you to private game drives, stylish lunches and regional gourmet cuisine to round off your stay with us.

• Couples Therapy room
• Mobile therapy beds for in-room treatments
• Hydrotherapy bath
• Sauna
• Steam Shower
• Heated Vichy Shower
• Chromotherapy Shower
• Gymnasium
• Outdoor treatments available
• Various relaxation areas throughout the Country House

Skincare Treatments
Skincare treatments make use of the results driven Dermalogica products. Boasting the latest in skincare technology, these exceptional products deliver long lasting results. Skins are analyzed using the dynamic Face Mapping concept, thoroughly cleansed and exfoliated, and treated to an indulgent face, neck, shoulder and scalp massage. An application of mask, serums and moisturizer will give the skin renewed radiance and clarity. Dermalogica skin treatments are designed to make your skin glow with health and to educate you on your skins’ basic needs.

Signature Treatments
Woodall signature treatments and body therapies harness the healing power of the African bush through the Theranaka range. A unique fusion of indigenous ingredients in the sugar scrubs and mud wraps takes one on a sensory experience to balance energies, detoxify tissues and induce a calm state of mind. Replicating earthy scents and heavenly aromas, the ingredients provide the ultimate sensory load for natural beauty as well as complete relaxation and rejuvenation.

Some of our Signature Treatments include the following:

• Aroma Spa Mud Wrap Experience
• Warming Citrus Foot Ritual
• Mother Nature Beauty Ceremony for pregnant moms

Massage Treatments
Massage treatments includes the traditionally-inspired African Wood Massage, Aromatherapy Massage, African Head Massage, Hot Stone and Candle Massage all serving to release tension and to restore your equilibrium.

Manicures and Pedicures
Manicures and Pedicures are vital for a groomed appearance, the cuticles and nails are treated and conditioned, and the muscles in the hands and feet are relaxed by pressure point massage. Warm, scented paraffin wax will facilitate absorption of nourishing ingredients, leaving your skin richly moisturized and soft.

Junior Spa Menu
The Woodall Spa also caters for the younger generation with our fun and exciting “Prince and Princess” spa service.

Special treatments include:

• Glitter Nails
• Magical Massages
• Breakout/Freakout Facials
• Enchanted Body Polishes
• Mom/Daughter Packages
• Boys’ Day Out for Father/Son and many more

We are also proud to stock the New Dermalogica Clean Start Range - Funky new skin products just for Teens and Younger Skins (8-23 yrs)

Spa Cuisine
Spa Cuisine, low in kilojoules, can be enjoyed overlooking the water sanctuary. Fresh fruit Juice and herbal teas are available throughout the day. Light lunches consist of gourmet sandwiches and salads and champagne breakfasts are served. Provisions for various dietary requirements are available on request.

Day Packages
Day packages are available to non-residents. The gym, offering cardiovascular and strength training, is open 24 hours and is available to day guests when a package is booked. Additional services include complimentary skin analysis and body consultation, baby sitting, corporate programmes, transfers and gift vouchers.

Facilities

Cuisine

The gourmet food is inspired by the flavours of local ingredients and freshly picked vegetables and herbs from our own garden. No effort or expense is spared to provide a fine dining experience bursting forth with South African flavours and textures. Karoo venison, freshly caught East Coast fish, home-made stocks, freshly baked bread, and local cheeses all form part of the irresistible menu on offer. The chef’s creative genius is inspired by the unique flavours of freshly picked produce from Woodall’s own herb and vegetable gardens. Complementing the menu is underground wine cellar, boasting a unique and comprehensive collection of fine South African wines, personally selected by the owner. One of only 40 establishments in South Africa to be awarded the Diners Club Diamond Wine List Award in 2009.

Stylish regional cuisine is served in the distinctive thatched waterside dining room decorated with an Afro-Chic flair. This area flows onto a sundowner deck and outdoor lounge creating an enchanted mood for savouring sundowner snacks, cocktails, moonlit dinners and after-dinner drinks and cigars, with glimpses of rare South African water birds.

Breakfasts are farm-style with gourmet eggs and bacon, homemade breads, pastries, muffins, jams and preserves. Simple, stylish lunches can be enjoyed on the deck, at the pool, or on your private patio. Packed breakfasts, picnic baskets, healthy spa cuisine and specific meal requests are keenly catered for by the Woodall kitchen.