Fugitives Drift Lodge & Guesthouse

Close to the battlefields of Islandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, Fugitives’ Drift Lodge is the brainchild of the late historian David Rattray. A spectacular property in a 5000 acre Natural Heritage Site. Set on a hillside above the Buffalo River, this award-winning safari lodge is where the mesmerising historians bring alive the battles where the British Army experienced their worst defeat and greatest victory against the Zulus. Such are their narrative abilities that they continuously receive accolade after accolade in bringing the atmosphere of these spine chilling stories to life.

Hospitable and comfortable, the Fugitives’ Drift Lodge has eight picturesque cottages commanding wonderful views of one of Africa’s most historically resonant landscapes. The main farmhouse is the Fugitives’ Drift Guesthouse and houses the sitting and dining rooms. It is crammed with Zulu war memorabilia and dinner is not only delicious but invariably a story-fest lasting long into the night. In its original state the Guesthouse was the home of Mr Johan Potgieter and his family. “Mr Pot” was immortalised in Gillian Rattray’s award-winning book “The Springing of the Year”. Mr Pot’s house has been turned into the most charming sitting and dining room, filled with fascinating memorabilia and six double rooms. The original veranda has been retained. The Lodge and Guesthouse both have swimming pools set in their colourful, well established gardens which are home to innumerable bird species.

Rattray was also a zoologist and botanist and the abundant bird and wildlife to be seen on game drives, horse rides and walks is as noteworthy as the spine-tingling atmosphere of the historical battlefields. Excellent fishing can be arranged on the Buffalo River, site of Fugitives’ Drift, where Lts Melvill and Coghill died trying to save their Regimental Colours and won the first two posthumous VCs ever awarded.