New Oxbow Lodge

Lesotho


On the banks of the Malibamat’so River, this incongruous alpine chalet would look more at home in the Alps. It fills during winter with South African skiers and snow oglers; at other times, its eerie isolation and intermittent electricity, compounded by golfball-size hailstones clattering on the deserted games room and bar, bring to mind The Shining.

The dated rooms and rondavels (round huts with a conical roof) have showers or baths, tea and coffee, gas fire and bedside candles for the black mountain nights. You can dine in the restaurant or bar (mains M40 to M120); room-only accommodation and à la carte meals will likely work out cheaper than half board. A small shop here supplies the basics. June to August (peak season), full board is compulsory (singles/doubles M990/1630).


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