Bushman Sands Hotel

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Location

At the heart of the rebirth of the once decaying railway town of Alicedale lies a unique resort experience, the Bushman Sands Hotel. We invite you to join this historic partnership to see Alicedale transformed into a thriving example of sustainable tourism development unlike any other in South Africa. Situated in the Bushmans River Canyon in the Eastern Cape, Alicedale is approximately 50 kilometres from Grahamstown and 100 kilometers from Port Elizabeth. Surrounded by valley bushveld, the town exhibits a rich multi-cultural heritage, from ancient Bushman paintings to the Victorian Karoo flavour of a century ago, when it was developed as a major railway junction. ^back to top

Description

At the centre of the transformation of Alicedale is the Bushman Sands Hotel. Named after the historic Bushman's River, Bushman Sands has provided the impetus for new investment and the sustainability for ongoing growth and development of the town. Situated on nearly 4000 hectares of former farmland, the Bushman Sands game reserve offers malaria free sightings of a myriad of animal species. Working with Shamwari's conservation team, Bushman Sands have reintroduced indigenous animals to the reserve, restoring the environment to its natural state. Animals that once roamed freely over 200 years ago have been reintegrated into their natural habitat. Among lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino, other species present include cheetah, black wildebeest, red hartebeest, zebra, giraffe, hippo, kudu, eland, springbuck and waterbuck. The 200ha New Years Dam in the Bushman Sands Reserve provides the ideal platform to watch the mesmerising effect of an Africa sunset with the opportunity to view big game at the waters edge. Accompanied by a qualified game ranger, visitors could easily bump into hippo, see antelope cautiously sipping or elephant bathing, whilst enjoying their favourite drink from the cocktail bar. The Bushman Sands Hotel is a multi-faceted experience offering something for everyone. The 4-star hotel is a delightful blend of rich heritage and modern luxury. The Gary Player designed Golf Course is perfect for the keen golfer. There are thrilling adventure options and prospects of viewing Big Game. Those wanting relaxation, pampering and tranquility will find alternatives at the spa or at the poolside or even on a tranquil sunset boat cruise. Rewarding for families and satisfying for visitors interested in the turbulent & fascinating history of the area, Bushman Sands has won wide acclaim as a forerunner of sustainable ecological and community tourism. ^back to top

Accommodation

The Hotel comprises of 39 bedrooms around a pool area overlooking the Bushman Sands Golf Course. Original railway houses form the cornerstones of what are now three rows of en suite accommodation - comprising of a choice of standard rooms, luxury rooms and junior suites. ^back to top

Amenities & Services

The 18-hole championship course has been designed by South African golfing legend, Gary Player. The course follows the banks of the Bushmans and New Years Rivers, resembling the game's earliest "links" courses in Scotland with undulating fairways and pot bunkers. The rejuvenating and detoxifying Spa extravaganza begins with treatments that have been designed to invigorate the body in the wonderful relaxing comfort of tranquil surroundings. ^back to top

Dining

The onsite Bunkers Restaurant, with its pale, creamy coloured Beech wood furniture and soft finishes in earthy terracotta and gold tones offers guests an atmosphere of pure serenity. Cuisine served at the Bushmans Sands Hotel is traditionally South African with influences of Xhosa, English and Cape Malay. Hearty Breakfasts, a la carte lunches and evening dinners are served here. A significant selection of wines is available to compliment your meal, while an after-dinner cigar and good single malt can be enjoyed in the library. ^back to top