Rising From The Ashes
- Gwynn van Heerden
- Jun 5
- 3 min read
The Story of Boschrand Lodge's Rebuilding Journey
On the morning of 5 April 2023, our lives changed forever. Following an electrical surge after loadshedding, a spark ignited beneath the wooden floorboards of our beloved restaurant and reception building. Hidden from sight, the fire spread until it reached the thatched roof. Once the grass roof caught alight, there was little that could be done to stop the flames. Within hours, a place that had stood proudly on the edge of the cliff for decades was gone.
WE STOOD THERE IN DISBELIEF, WATCHING THE LODGE BURN, KNOWING THERE WAS NOTHING WE COULD DO BUT WATCH THE FLAMES TAKE EVERYTHING.
The loss was devastating.
Thankfully, no people or animals
were harmed, but the damage
extended far beyond the buildings
themselves. We lost our beautiful
restaurant and reception area
overlooking the river and farm, staff
quarters, treasured furniture,
irreplaceable artefacts, personal
belongings, and countless pieces of
history that had been part of
Boschrand Lodge for generations.
MOST PAINFUL OF ALL WAS
LOSING A PLACE THAT HELD SO
MANY MEMORIES.
For years, families gathered there to celebrate milestones, friends shared stories over meals, guests watched the sunset from the cliff's edge, and countless moments of laughter and joy became part of the lodge's story. To see it reduced to ashes was heartbreaking for everyone who calls Boschrand home. Yet even in the midst of grief, there was no time to stand still. Our staff showed remarkable resilience. Through tears, heartache, and uncertainty, they adapted almost overnight to keep Boschrand Lodge operating. Every member of our team stepped up, working tirelessly to ensure that our loyal guests—and the many new guests who continued to visit us—still experienced the warmth and hospitality for which Boschrand Lodge is known. Together, we faced one of the greatest challenges in our history.
Over the past three years, we have focused on rebuilding, improving, and creating a stronger future for the lodge. One of the most significant changes has been our move to complete
energy independence. Following the fire, we invested in a large solar power system, allowing Boschrand Lodge and the entire farm to operate off-grid. During extended rainy periods, this
system is supported by generators and now powers our daily operations, providing greater reliability and sustainability for the future.
Our Bush Camp has also seen several exciting upgrades. Five of our units now feature televisions and Wi-Fi, making stays even more comfortable for our guests. Every unit has been enhanced with a covered porch area, providing a shaded space to relax and enjoy the surrounding bushveld. We have also added a shaded area at the swimming pool, creating a more enjoyable place for families and visitors to unwind during the warmer months. None of these improvements happened overnight. Every building, every upgrade, and every step forward has required time, dedication, and perseverance. There were many long days,
difficult decisions, and moments when the task ahead felt overwhelming. But through it all, our team remained committed to rebuilding Boschrand Lodge piece by piece.
LOOKING BACK TODAY, WE ARE
INCREDIBLY PROUD OF HOW FAR
WE HAVE COME
TO EVERYONE...
The fire may have taken away a building, but it could never take away the spirit of Boschrand Lodge. That spirit lives on in our staff, our guests, our family, and the community that has supported us throughout this journey. To everyone who stood by us, visited us, encouraged us, and continued to believe in Boschrand Lodge during these challenging years, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your support has played a vital role in helping us rebuild and move forward. As we look to the future, our dream remains the same: to one day rebuild our original lodge on the cliff—stronger, more beautiful, and more welcoming than ever before.
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