MASVINGO - Tour guide Prosper Rusike, certainly seemed on intimate terms with the environs at Lodge At The Ancient City, 25 kilometres, south of Masvingo city, if his kn
owledge of the place is anything to go by.
Rusike gave the historical background of every artifact - detailing where it came from, what it symbolises and other such information.
"The frequently asked question when one first sets eyes upon Lodge At The Ancient City, is 'how did the builders manage to haul boulders that now form an integral part of the overall architecture'," Rusike, told a group of business people that recently visited the lodge.
"Of course that is incorrect. What the builders simply did was to build around the boulders," Rusike explained.
Erected upon a ridge overlooking Great Zimbabwe, the Lodge at the Ancient City evokes the legends of the ancient Munhumutapa Empire.
From the bar/ lounge, which is perched upon a granite outcrop, one has an enchanting view of a swimming pool and an open air dining terrace that further expands into a valley of musasa trees.
On the north of the bar lies 18 detached thatched lodges that, apart from providing the perfect location from which to explore Great Zimbabwe, the largest ancient structure in sub-sahara Africa, also offer princely accommodation.
"Here the past, present and future have been fused," said Rusike as he stood in one of the lodges.
Apart from the wild ancient touch, each lodge has a shower, bath, toilet and hand basin.
Beds are equipped with electrical blankets to cater for those chilly African nights.
Electric sockets have also been installed in the walls - and each lodge has a kettle for those who are into late night coffee.
Claudine Madzinga, who was among the visitors, recommended it highly for those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
"The place is good for family outings. You will get to see stones in a different way and also learn the history of the early inhabitants of the area," said Madzinga.
Walter Chikeya, who was literally hypnotised by the enchanting scenery at the lodge, pledged to return with his family during the Christmas holidays.
"I experienced a different environment. All I heard was the birds singing or flipping their wings in the nearby musasa tree. It is a good place for relaxation. I am going to bring my family so that we can share the experience," said Chikeya.
Other attractions at the lodge include detailed trips through the ancient capital at Great Zimbabwe.
Origins, architecture, trading routes, social and religious practices and the reason for the mysterious decline of the city are all subjects of animared discussion with tour guides at the shrine.
Scenic drives and walks around the nearby Lake Mutirikwi Recreational Park and into the adjacent villages are also available.
The north-eastern shores of the lake are a national park, thus, boating trips in search of white rhinoceros, hippo, crocodile and various antelope and bird species can also be booked.
Show/Hide comments
Show/Hide comment form
