Lena Goly
Google
Be prepared to have a very special experience while staying at Vanira Lodge.
You will constantly feel as you a fairy tale character due to the location and architecture of buildings. You will need to get used to driving up a short but steep hill. Pray that there are no vehicles coming the opposite way as you have to share the road. Well, it is well worth it! As soon as you drive up approximately 200 meters, you find yourself constantly amused with the landscape, architecture, and interior design of the lodge. It feels as if the time stopped there at the time when gnomes, hobbits, and fairies used to live.
The structure of each lodge is such as you have gaps in the walls. At least one lodge had the entire window size opening, with no glass, opened. I had to stretch my hand to confirm that there was no glass pane.
I am not a camper but anyhow and it took me two nights to get used to the nature to be so close to me. I had small ... may be lizzards ( not sure their name) living in my lodge. You would have to double check that whenever you are reaching, there is no little creature sitting there.
The lodge book describes the recommendations and rules of living at the lodges. All food has to be locked up in the fridge. Otherwise, you are risking of having an uninvited friend sampling it:)
The staff was absolutely lovely. I loved going to the receptionist Tania asking her questions. The office is another piece of an architectural wonder in a fairytale style:)
Tania made phone calls for me and helped to arrange tours and activities (I don't speak French; so, it was more than helpful). On the last day, Tania allowed me to shower at one of the lodges way pass my check out time. I was given two glasses of coconut water as Tania's "thank you" when I was checking out.
I did not eat at the lodge. Therefore, I cannot comment on their menu. The restaurant looks absolutely adorable!
One thing to improve: I stayed in one of the two lodges where plants grow on the roof. The soil and plants above the toilet had washed off exposing the plastic roof. During the rain, the sound of the rain droplets hitting the plastic amplify inside of the lodge. That partially interrupting my sleep.
In sum, be prepared for an exceptional experience and stay open to the possibility of an adventure while staying at the lodge. It is not a "perfect" lodge, but is an imperfect perfect adventure!
Mauruuru to all staff! I will miss you and wantvto come back soon!
Lena