
When you name your guesthouse after the Garden of Eden, you’d better be pretty sure it’s special. And so, in this case, it is: owned and built by Tony and Sharon, Eden River Lodge on the eastern coast of South Africa, near the city of Durban, are both keen bikers and full of stories from their travels… touring in Scotland for instance, or in Bali, where they have a second home.

Eden River Lodge sits on the banks of the Mahlongwa River, which loops lazily past the pool at the bottom of the garden, the light glinting off the water through palm fronds and fever trees. Fish eagles, swallows and even the occasional crocodile can be spotted from the decking. There’s a proper sized swimming pool between the house and the river and just to the right you can hear the roar of the Indian Ocean with miles and miles of sandy beach to explore.

Upstairs rooms are large, light and decorated in a mix of African and South Pacific styles. All have en-suites and large balconies overlooking the river while downstairs a large open-plan living/dining area and bar sports its Balinese rice store and grand colonial-era dresser. A very ecclectic but not crowded style in the midst of perfect tranquility.

The area abounds with lovely outdoor things to do, such as the South Coast’s wonderul beaches, or the nearby croc farm, golf courses and the TC Robertson Nature Reserve.
Eden River Lodge is under an hour from King Shaka International Airport in Durban along the N2 highway. Prices are very reasonable with B&B starting at R1 200 per room per night, $70 / £56 / €67.
