Zimbabwe’s hidden gem in the Honde Valley

Driving through the scenic Honde Valley and past the Eastern Highlands tea plantations, you’ll discover one of Zimbabwe’s best-kept secrets: Aberfoyle Lodge. Perched amidst rolling tea fields, rivers, mountains, and lush riparian forests, Aberfoyle offers an unforgettable getaway.

A feast for the eyes:

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery surrounding Aberfoyle Lodge. Wander through the magnificent tea fields, breathing in the crisp air and soaking in the panoramic views. Discover the tranquil beauty of Wamba Dam, a picturesque landscape sculpted by nature.

The Honde Valley itself is a sanctuary of natural beauty, with its lush tea plantations and rolling hills. Explore cascading waterfalls, hike through misty mountains, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil vistas. Surrounded by expansive tea plantations, vibrant riparian forests, and the meandering Nyamakombe River, it offers a sense of peace and tranquillity.

The Aberfoyle Golf Course, a 9-hole gem, winds its way through the tea plantations and verdant forests. With fairways tracing the river’s edge, it’s arguably one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic courses. The Honde Valley’s beauty continues to impress with its undulating hills and lush greenery, offering visitors a haven of natural splendour. Aberfoyle Lodge provides the perfect base to explore and appreciate this remarkable landscape.

Activities for everyone:

Aberfoyle Lodge offers a diverse range of activities. Birdwatchers will delight in the surrounding forests, a true birding paradise. Their expert guide, Morgan, considered one of Southern Africa’s best, possesses extensive knowledge of the local species.

The lodge’s rooms are even named after birds. Explore the area’s natural beauty via numerous marked walking trails. Discover three stunning waterfalls: 3-Man Waterfall, a short walk from the lodge; Mermaids Pool, ideal for swimming, a 45-minute walk or short drive away; and the renowned Bumslide, a natural waterslide on the Nyawamba River, a short drive from the lodge.

Enjoy a round of putt-putt on their 18-hole grass course. Learn about the tea-making process with a fascinating tea factory tour. Picnic options abound, from locations near the lodge to scenic spots like Wamba Dam. Mountain biking is popular, though guests should bring their own bikes. Thrill-seekers can experience Zimbabwe’s first canopy tour, a series of ziplines.

A large organic vegetable garden provides fresh produce for the lodge’s meals, and guests are welcome to explore it. The adjacent lawn by the river is a lovely picnic spot. The lodge also hosts weddings for up to 75 guests. Aberfoyle Lodge gained further recognition in 2023 when it hosted the team from The Grand Tour: “One for the Road.”

A family-friendly escape:

Aberfoyle Lodge offers enchanting hospitality and enchanting Honde Valley views. It’s the perfect place for romantic strolls and family gatherings. Bring your board games and friends for a memorable group getaway. Planning your 2025 holiday? Put Aberfoyle Lodge on your bucket list! This magical location is perfect for refreshing your body and mind.

Enjoy birding, golfing, hiking, swimming, and other adventures in a beautiful setting. Accommodation options include Aberfoyle Lodge, which is the main, fully-catered lodge, with additional options for self-catering and Hornbill House, one of the two self-catering units, offering vast views of tea fields and mountains.

From Destination Zw Issue 15