A massive congratulations to Royal Chundu who has recently been Voted No.10 in the Top Resorts in Africa 2016 and who we’d like to recognise as our property of the month for May.
For a sneak peek on why Royal Chundu is so incredible – have a look at the video below or read on for why this Zambian gem is definitely worth a visit!
Royal Chundu, the first Relaix Chateaux property in Zambia, is 14 suites of majestic and secluded opulence nestled on the Zambian bank of the immense Zambezi River. Here, upstream of the Victoria Falls, the river is a wide and tranquil elixir that supports a myriad of bird, fish, mammal and plant life. Elephants graze the banks and islands while tiger fish dart through the water after prey. Royal Chundu represents a commitment to unbridled luxury in the wild of Africa and the constant support of local communities.
River Lodge
River Lodge is the majestic hub of Royal Chundu. The double volume thatch main area looks out across the main Zambezi channel onto the distant banks of Zimbabwe. It feels as if nature birthed this Zambian gem, so seamlessly does it fit into the vegetation around it. The sumptuous sitting rooms are softly lit by crystal yellow glowing chandeliers. The acres of wooden decking, deep cool pool and serene atmosphere offer endless delightful spaces for rest and reflection. The fabulously stocked wine cellar and library full of leather-bound volumes offer sophisticated retreats at night or when the weather closes in.
The ten superbly decorated and sublimely comfortable suites are spacious tributes to the Zambezi and the warmth of the local people. They offer complete privacy indoors and outside on the generous private decks. The river meanders on its timeless journey while hippos surface in the shallows, bushbuck browse in the verdant vegetation and, if you are lucky, an elephant swims across the main channel as you lie on a chaise longue in astonishment at the engulfing splendour.
Island Lodge
Island lodge is Royal Chundu’s premier camp with just four superb suites secluded on a private island, surrounded by easy channels and shaded by ancient baobabs. Each suite is a testament to the romance of Africa. The highlight of your private deck is the open-air bath. The acme of rejuvenation is to lie in the tub suspended over the river while inhaling the soft, sweet scent of the river.
If you are not watching the action in the water from the extra length king size bed, then you might be sipping a gin and tonic from the shaded basket chair on the deck or lazing in a tender lounge armchair. The entire front of the suite is fronted with glass concertina doors which means you are constantly thrilled by the wildness of the Zambezi while recharging in the lap of profound luxury.
The main area boasts two opulent lounges, a dining deck slung out under the star-sprayed African sky, an intimate boma and an infinity pool to quench the heat of the day and help you empathise with the hippo grunting with satisfaction in the river below.
Families
Children of all ages are welcome at Royal Chundu and there is an excellent children’s programme where budding young naturalists can have wilderness fun in complete safety under the watchful gaze of the high-skilled Royal Chundu Staff. While your spirit is being recharged with a spa treatment or a snooze on the deck, your kids will be treasure hunting, catching fish, cooking, cruising on the river and visiting local villages.
Activities at Royal Chundu
There is a wealth of excitement to be had at Royal Chundu both on the property and in the wider magnificence of the Zambezi.
If you are looking to unwind and rejuvenate your soul, then a treatment from one of Royal Chundu’s world-beating therapists, either in the tranquillity of the spa or in the seclusion and of your suite deck, will fill you with a sense of relaxation, gratitude and joy.
Expeditions onto the grand Zambezi include canoeing adventures with highly-skilled guides and tiger fishing trips with knowledgeable locals who delight in helping you master the art of this unique fishing discipline.
Away from the river, Royal Chundu is proud to offer tours to two of the local villages that the lodge supports through conservation and ecotourism initiatives.
No matter what adventure and sights you have experienced during the day, a gentle sunset cruise onto the river from Royal Chundu will allow you time for reflection. The soothing waters laps against the boat, you sip your favourite sundowner, the water birds make their languid way to roost, an elephant bull squirts mud onto his back and the sun, which is somehow bigger here, disappears in a blaze of gold and red.