A Hidden Gem in Vredefort Dome
Nestled in the heart of the Vredefort Dome lies an oasis of history, nature, and unparalleled beauty - the Sunnyside River Lodge. This remarkable location holds the distinction of being the very ground zero for the largest meteorite impact on our planet, a colossal event that occurred some 2 billion years ago. Today, the Vredefort Dome isn’t just a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's a wonderland of mountains, bushveld, and the abundant wildlife that is emblematic of the picturesque South African highveld.
A Legacy Spanning Three Generations
Before it became the go-to spot for nature enthusiasts and families, Sunnyside River Lodge was a humble cattle and crop family farm. Picture this: a serene farm cocooned by mountains on one side and graced by the flow of the Vaal River on the other. Three generations later, the farm's transformation into the now renowned guest farm is nothing short of poetic. It's an embodiment of a dream to share a slice of heaven on Earth.
Nature's Grand Theatre
Step into Sunnyside River Lodge, and you'll soon realize that it's not just a destination - it's an experience. For the avid fisherman, the lush riverbanks serve as the perfect stage to cast a line. If hunting stirs your soul, venture into the wild, where nature's rawness meets human pursuit. But beyond these activities, Sunnyside promises simpler, yet profound joys - children embarking on adventures, urban souls retreating into nature's embrace, and as dusk paints the sky, everyone congregates under a constellation-filled canopy, the night's symphony playing in the background. Sunnyside River Lodge doesn't just offer a vacation; it provides a journey of self-discovery.
A Home Away from Home
The accommodation at Sunnyside River Lodge reflects its spirit - cozy, welcoming, and equipped for every season. Picture chalet rooms that promise the comfort of home, and a communal entertainment area where stories are shared over hearty breakfasts and evening fires. And to make your stay impeccable, Adri, the wonderful host, ensures that every detail, every need, is met with perfection.
Beyond the Lodge: Adventures Await
A stone's throw away from the lodge are experiences waiting to be unearthed:
Feel the Rush: Ziplining and Dome tours, both a mere 32km away.
Wild Encounters: Visit the Cheetah and Lion farms, positioned 40km and 35km away, respectively.
Cultural Expeditions: Explore Parys and Potchefstroom, located at 35km and 30km.
Into the Wild: For those who resonate with the call of the wild, hunting is the newest feather in Sunnyside's cap. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned hunter, the hunting camp, aided by the skilled PH Tim, promises an experience that's both thrilling and memorable. From the graceful Impala to the majestic Eland, the game variety is expansive.
A Personal Journey Along the Vaal River
Sunnyside is where memories are made. Nestled along the Vaal River, this paradisiacal haven once gifted me an unforgettable experience of reeling in a big barbel, weighing just shy of 15kg. With every tug, it reminded me of the raw power of nature and the age-old, occasionally contentious, art of fishing this majestic river.
But the allure of Sunnyside extends far beyond its fishing tales. It's a gateway to the many splendours of the Vredefort Dome. Thoughtfully curated, Sunnyside ensures that guests aren't just confined to one picturesque locale. There’s a world to explore here - from the untamed beauty of the riverbanks that host a rich tapestry of avian life to the hypnotic dance of the sun as it bathes the water in hues of orange during dawn and dusk. It’s in these moments, amidst nature’s spectacle, that one feels an overwhelming sense of peace and rejuvenation.
Flyfishing from the Bridge
A stone's throw away is the low-water bridge of Schoemanshof. A hidden gem for flyfishing enthusiasts, just after the bridge it offers one of the finest fly-fishing spots. Here, the river melodiously serenades with its low water rapids, providing a perfect feeding ground for the coveted and highly sought-after yellowfish. While the water beckons for a closer exploration, tread cautiously. The river's bed hides large rocks that could lead to a misstep or two.
The Final Word
In essence, Sunnyside River Lodge isn't just a destination; it's a narrative, an emotion, a memory waiting to be made. Whether you're seeking adventure, solace, or a bit of both, this lodge promises to be the backdrop for stories that last a lifetime.
Booking/Quote Request Sunnyside River Lodge
To request a quote or booking enquiry, simply click on the image below, which will direct you to the booking/quote request form
About The Author
Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds.
Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens.
Sunnyside Accommodation Detail
The Main House
Sleeps 5 people, 2 bedrooms and one loft room.
House has two bedrooms, one with a king-size bed and one with a double bed. Rooms share one bathroom with bath, separate shower and separate toilet. Open loft with one ¾ bed is ideal for a child and can also accommodate adults. Open plan dining room and lounge with full bouquet DSTV. Full kitchen and wrap-around under-cover porch with ample seating with either a view on the river or the mountain.
Share open Lapa and swimming pool with the chalets.
Easy access to the river for fishing or enjoyment.
River Lodge
Two Rooms (Sleeps 4 – 6)
This luxury house has two spacious bedrooms, one with a king-size bed and one with two single beds. Both bedrooms are en-suite with a bad, shower and toilet. One bedroom has a view of the river and pecan orchard, and one has a view of the pecan orchard and the mountain.
Full open plan kitchen, dining room and lounge. Full bouquet DSTV on request. Covered patio with braai facilities. Two garages. Easy access to the river for fishing or enjoyment.
Luxury Tent
One Room (Sleeps 4 – 6)
Luxury tent very close to the riverbank, with two double beds and two single beds, each with mosquito nets. Separate bathroom with a shower and toilet. Kitchenette with fridge and microwave. An undercover place to sit outside and enjoy the river. Outside braai. Undercover parking for two cars.
Chalets
3 Chalets, 2 Rooms Per Chalet (Sleeps 4 Guests per Chalet)
Each Chalet comprises two comfortable, spacious and air-conditioned rooms. Each bedroom is furnished with two beds and shares a bathroom with a bath and shower. Separate toilet per chalet. Each chalet has a kitchenette with a fridge and a microwave and also a covered outside braai. The chalets also share a full common kitchen with a full DSTV bouquet. Open Lapa with braai facilities, to share with the main house. The chalets are rented as a unit, we do not mix groups without agreement. Easy access to the river for fishing or just enjoying.
Fisherman’s Cabin
One Room Sleeps 4 – 6 (+2 Comfortable Sleeping Stretchers & Mattresses on Request)
Situated on the riverbank, this cabin is basic but ideal for fishermen and families alike. Sleeps 5 people in one common room, with an en-suite bathroom with a shower and toilet. Separate kitchenette, with everything you need. Covered patio and braai, where everyone can sit and enjoy each other’s company after a day of fishing.
Other Fishing and Camping Information
You may want to have a look at our Fishing section that provides you with a range of contact details for fishing spots in our region, you can find these by clicking on the following link, and looking for the Fishing section: The Go-To Guy Things to Do
You can also find articles on other places we covered by clicking on the links below, there are so many great places to discover in our region:
Scandanavia River Lodge: Click Here
Stonehenge River Lodge: Click Here
Schoemanshoff River Lodge: Click Here
Vosrite Fishing Adventures: Click Here
Schoemanshoff River Lodge: Click Here
Limerick Lodge: Click Here
Dimalachite Resort: Click Here
Elgro River Lodge: Click Here
Oord Nebo: Click Here
Koedoeslaagte Trial Park: Click Here
Vaal de Sioleh: Click Here
Sunnyside River Lodge: Click Here
Other Adventure Stuff
Be sure to check out our Suzuki Jimny article we did on the new 5 door Jimny to reach our shores this year as well as the GWM Bakkie we covered in our Car Talk Section, we added these links for your convenience below:
The new Five Door Jimny: Click Here
The GWM Bakkie: Click Here
