Nottingham Estate Resorts

NOTTINGHAM ESTATE

[WRITER: Angela Mason ] RESORTS…A Unique Experience[ PHOTO: Nottingham Estate Resorts ]

Nottingham Estate, a privately owned farm located on the banks of the mighty Limpopo River (close to Beitbridge town) produces quality citrus for export, local sales and juicing. Nottingham Estate Resorts focuses on Eco-Tourism as Beitbridge is not only the border between Zimbabwe and South Africa, it is also a diverse wildlife area rich in archaeological and paleontological history. Both ventures contribute to community welfare through employment (permanent and seasonal); levy contribution to Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, a body vital to promoting tourism…and to the well-being of Elephants and other wildlife who in turn provide Nottingham Estate Resorts a unique experience to offer local and international guests during the months of May to September…’Fly Camp’ Season.

Fly Camp is a spectacular natural rocky amphitheatre where Elephant, Baboon, Warthog, Eland, Kudu and Impala feast on citrus deemed unfit for human consumption, and orange pulp collected from a nearby juicing plant. Nothing goes to waste! Guests safely enjoy the unique, and endearing feeding experience from an auditorium set high above the stage, a part of this natural rocky amphitheatre. Elephant ‘rumbling’, and occasional trumpeting echo off the rocks striking into the hearts of the audience. Audible sounds of ‘silent’ feasting African Giants below reaches guests above. Entertaining Baboon antics add to the experience. Beautiful sunsets, a jagged rocky landscape, and distant Hyena calls in the early evening enhance the ambiance. Yellow lighting illuminates the feeding area at night, and is comforting for all. Fantastic photo opportunities!

Guests are accommodated at either Kuduland situated on the banks of the Limpopo River, or Fishing Camp situated on the banks of the Mutshiloshokwe Dam. Each camp has its own unique atmosphere.

Kuduland is rustic, but comfortable, and offers that ‘safari’ feel with the layout, and rondavel type chalets. Lush green lawns sweep down the river bank and complete the gardens. Shade provided by the numerous Fever and Nyala trees is welcomed. The flow of the Limpopo River is seasonal; each season contributing a beauty of its own. The sound of flowing water is soothing, and the dry river bed with a few pools of water are home to Crocodiles. Birdlife completes the setting. Sparkling swimming pools overlooking the river are enjoyed by guests. Fishing Camp is modern in comparison. Waterfront chalets overlook the dam used by guests fishing for Bass or Bream; or simply just a Boat Cruise. Birdlife, Crocodile, Hippo, Elephant and other wildlife around the dam offer great photo opportunities. Gardens and numerous trees complement the camp surroundings. A swimming pool at the main dining/lounge/bar and entertainment area is welcome on a hot day. Guests wake to a beautiful sunrise over the dam, and end the day with an equally beautiful sunset. The shaded lawns in front of chalets offer a relaxed, and peaceful environment.

Nottingham Estate Resorts has had the pleasure of accommodating participants in the well-known annual TOUR DE TULI Mapungubwe charity event that attracts cyclists from all around the world.

Activities available to guests are Fly Camp visits, Bush Drives (Bushmen Painting sites, wildlife, rock formations, water pans), Boat Cruises, Sentinel Ranch Fossil Visits and Fishing.

www.nottinghamestate.co.za