Our Story
Shiluvari Lakeside lodge is located just 28km from Louis Trichardt town and 7 km from the bustling little village of Elim which was a mission station. It was founded by the Girardin family back in 1996. The family has had a long history in the Elim community as their ancestors were pioneers in establishing Elim Hospital. Besides their rich heritage in the area, they brought vision and developed Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge as a player in hosting international tourism, especially those from Western Europe. Paul Girardin complimented Shiluvari Lodge by developing Kuvona tours which exposed Shiluvari guests to the rich cultural heritage of the Elim and Venda areas. Ribola Art route also came to life, exposing the work of local sculptors and crafters in the area.
In 2014 Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge exchanged hands and Phemani (Pty) Ltd is the new and current owner. Phemani is a Xitsonga word for “Let's Share”….. Share the food, beauty, tranquillity and uniqueness. Tying in nicely with the Shiluvari tag line “Ku dya i ku engeta”. In the African culture to show hospitality as a host you share whatever you have, the Vatsonga people are no different.
Today, the offering of Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge (Phemani) has expanded to include medium-term self-catering accommodation. The venue is also ideal to host conferences, weddings and special events. Looking for something different? Look no further than Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge's new offerings; design your own picnic basket, boat cruise options and of course the luxury country living Estate.
The Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge team invites you to come and experience their hospitality and assure you of a warm welcome and a very memorable stay.
The Lodge
Set against a backdrop of Mountains and Forests, Holy Lakes and sacred ruins, Shiluvari welcomes you to the heart of Ancient Venda and promises to restore your natural rhythm. On a natural peninsula in 30 HA of natural vegetation, Shiluvari’s sweeping views of the Albasini Dam & Luonde Mountains are the perfect base from which to explore this ‘Land of Legend’
The main Lodge, once the old farmhouse, offers a unique and rustic venue for large functions and wedding receptions.
On-site facilities also include the Lakeside Swimming pool, as well as the motorized raft, ‘the fish eagle’ for sunset cruises on the Albasini Dam.
Farmhouse
Breakfast
Wood-fired Pizza
Private Braai Area
& Fire Pit
Boat Cruise
Mountain Bikin
Swimming
Pool
Outdoor Shower
Fishing
Historical Facts:
With Family ties to the legendary George Liengme who arrived in SA in 1893 and started the Elim Hospital, which today is recognised at a natural Heritage Monument.
In 1999 the development of the cultural tourism in the area, brought about a new tourism niche that developed into Kuvona cultural tours.
Shiluvari Lakeside Lodge was established in 1996 by the Girardin family who had a long history of involvement in the Elim and local community