Wild Horses Lodge

Wild Horses Lodge

Sterkfontein Dam, Harrismith 9880 South Africa
Wild Horses Lodge
Traveler (184)
zebra bedroom
Room & Suite (41)
Dining (31)

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Avg. $206 /night, 2/9 - 2/10
$208
per night
$205
per night
$202
per night

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About

#1 of 5 lodges in Harrismith
Location
4.8
Rooms
4.7
Value
4.5
Cleanliness
4.8
Service
4.8
Sleep Quality
4.7
Located in the Eastern Free State's pristine Sterkfontein Nature Reserve at the foothills of the Drakensberg Escarpment, Wild Horses Lodge is the perfect location for an African breakaway. With its panoramic views of the majestic Platberg Mountain and the vast Sterkfontein Dam, the Lodge is a masterpiece of architectural design in local sandstone and offers luxury accommodation, exquisite cuisine and a variety of activities centred around the dam and the abundant wildlife of the reserve.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Free breakfast
Boating
Canoeing
Couples massage
Adults only
Secured parking
Public wifi
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Shallow end in pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Snack bar
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Hiking
Horseback riding
Windsurfing
Canoeing offsite
Fishing
Tennis court offsite
Walking tours
Board games / puzzles
Facial treatments
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Manicure
Massage
Neck massage
Pedicure
Gift shop
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Blackout curtains
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Coffee / tea maker
Cable / satellite TV
Electric blanket
Whirlpool bathtub
Fireplace
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Sofa
Telephone
Wardrobe / closet
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Private bathrooms
Tile / marble floor
Minibar
Electric kettle
Flatscreen TV
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Mountain view
Landmark view
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
5.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Luxury
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans, Zulu

Location

Sterkfontein Dam, Harrismith 9880 South Africa
Getting there
Johannesburg Intl Airport
169.9 mi
See all flights
1 Attraction
within 5 miles
Traveler rating
  • 233
  • 21
  • 4
  • 5
  • 3
Time of year
Traveler type
Language
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Detailed Reviews
AliciaKoch wrote a review Jan 2024
Johannesburg, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I have been told by the avid fisherman that when you find a “honey hole”, you keep the location secure. You don’t even mention its name for fear of it being overrun and the elusive fish you have been yearning to catch, done in. I’m no fisherman, but that’s exactly how I feel about Wild Horses Lodge. I want to scream its name from the rooftops but am afraid to do so for fear of it being overrun. That said, I feel compelled to share how amazing this place is with others. It’s a conundrum. Wild Horses is an absolute hidden gem, an oasis of calmness and serenity, hidden amongst the hills and dales of Sterkfontein Dam. Arriving at its door is akin to arriving home – somewhere all too familiar, amongst people you have known forever – and yet – something new and enticing all at the same time. “No” is simply not a word at Wild Horses – just my kind of place. Nothing is too much effort or impossible. I arrived at Wild Horses with dietary requirements as long as my arm and every single one was followed to the letter. Not only that, but I could have sworn I was eating in a hidden Michelin Star restaurant, world-renowned for its mastery. And yet, I found myself in a remote location in a small corner of South Africa. The rooms were immaculately clean and extremely comfortable, with magnificent views of the Dam. We stayed in the Zebra Suite, and I can highly recommend it. You can go sailing, fishing, take a trip on a speed boat, quad biking and more. There is so much to do but also nothing to do at the same time – depending on your preference for the day. All of that aside, the standout for me is the people. From the incomparable Kayla who is the face of Wild Horses and your first interaction with the lodge, to Marlise the very talented and incredible chef, to your server for your stay, the friendly Miriam and of course there is the charismatic owner of Wild Horses himself Jon Hawkins, his charming wife Trish and their delightful son Scott. It was an honour to spend three marvelous nights at Wild Horses. I was terribly sad to leave – feeling like I was leaving behind family. But I’m excited to return and know – beyond a shadow of a doubt – that my next stay will be as superb as my first. Do yourself a service and spend some time at this tranquil locale. You won’t regret it.
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Date of stay: January 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Jul 11, 2024
Thank you for sharing your heartfelt review. Your warm & loving words make all our efforts so worthwhile & rewarding. When we meet people like you, we always wait for them to return.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dallyn wrote a review Nov 2023
Roodepoort, South Africa
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A lot of mixed emotions encountered enroute, however, upon arrival understanding the attraction of the lodge. Placed in a picturesque location and viewpoint of the dam, the relaxing view invites you sit back and enjoy a drink while you forget about the worries of everyday life, this made even easier by the amazing and attentive staff.

From the room to the meals and the experience as a whole, absolutely amazing and definitely a bicketlist item achieved with full marks.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: The road in the immediate area is definitely not suited for low-profile vehicles or tyres (or...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Nov 8, 2023
Hi Dallyn and Amber! We absolutely loved having you here for your anniversary and we were so happy to be able to make your stay special. We will pass on the kind words to our staff as they were equally as excited for your stay with us. We all wish you many more happy years and hope to welcome you back for another anniversary.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Prenishka_ Naidoo wrote a review Jun 2024
Richards Bay, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Treated my husband to a weekend away to this beautiful establishment for his birthday. From the meticulously manicured gardens to the exquisite food, every aspect of our stay exceeded our expectation.

We truly felt pampered and spoiled by the exceptional service. The owners, in particular, were an absolute delight to interact with, and their warmth and hospitality made us feel incredibly comfortable.

It was evident that great care and attention to detail went into ensuring that every guest had a memorable and enjoyable experience.
The Zebra room, where we were accommodated, provided a breathtaking view overlooking the dam. Each morning, we were greeted with a mesmerizing sight that left us in awe.

The intimate setting, coupled with the warm and friendly atmosphere created by your team, made our stay truly unforgettable.

we will absolutely be returning.
A big thank you to, Jon, Trish and Scott- Thank you for opening up your home to us and to Kayla who was ever so helpful- thank you for ensuring that our entire stay was seamless.
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Date of stay: April 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Jul 11, 2024
It is always a pleasure when our guests use the lodge for their special occasions, your husband's birthday was no different. We are so privileged to be part of this occasion.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
spantl775766 wrote a review Apr 2021
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We found Wild Horses Lodge to be great value for money and we were hosted extremely well from when we arrived until we left.
The views from the lodge overlooking the dam were amazing and you never got tired of looking at them.
Overall an excellent weekend.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Apr 13, 2021
We are so thrilled you enjoyed your stay with us and cannot wait for you to return again! Thank you so much for the kind words
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Johann S wrote a review Dec 2021
Gauteng, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Really glad I found this awesome place to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Our stay was everything and more from what we expected. We felt special and our host, Kayla looked after or every need. Dinner was made special by having our private table in their cosy wine cellar, gourmet food with an exquisite taste in a perfect ambiance. After breakfast we were spoiled with a 2 hour private boat cruise on the Sterkfontein dam. For lunch our choice was a picnic basket enjoyed at the bottom private terrace overlooking the dam. Again the food was delicious, way to much but again did not disappoint. Our room overlooking the dam also had a private balcony with everything you need and would expect for a romantic getaway. I can definitely recommend this special place that will leave a lasting memory.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Jan 13, 2022
Hi Johan and Adele. We were so happy to be able to give you both such a memorable wedding anniversary. Thankfully the weather held out so that you could have the boa cruise. We are so grateful for this review and we really hope to welcome you back for all your future anniversaries!
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Karen V wrote a review Sep 2022
Sintra, Portugal
4.0 of 5 bubbles
We went to Wild Horses Lodge on the recommendation of a friend. He had done lots of research regarding a romantic spot not too far from Johannesburg, especially if you’re only going for the weekend. He found Wild Horses and said that this was what we were looking for. He was right, it’s very exclusive in that it only has 4 rooms, this makes in very personal. The view from our room the sunset room was beautiful as we had a view of the Sterkfontein Dam. Our first dinner was in the wine cellar, this was a very intimate dinner for just the two of us. The chef shared the meal for the evening. The next morning, we had breakfast with the other guests in the dining room, this also had a magnificent view of the Sterkfontein Dam. Our room was cozy, we had after a dinner nightcap in our room every evening . Kayla had organized a picnic basket for our next days adventure. The picnic basket had an array of delicious snacks. Wild Horse is well located as you are able to visit other spots and then return to your cozy lodge for the evening.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: August 2022
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Sep 15, 2022
Hi Karen, thank you so much for a wonderful and detailed review. We are so glad you were able to enjoy your stay with us to it's full extent. We wish to welcome both you and Antonio soon.
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vkelly365785 wrote a review Jul 2024
Sydney, Australia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I have stayed in some wonderful hotels, lodges, B&Bs all around the world but I have never been treated to an experience as magnificent or complete as this wonderfully managed property.
The grandness of the property and the surrounding scenery is simply mind-blowing and, at the same time, offers the most relaxed and casual atmosphere one could hope for.
The nightly dining experience is a must, and even a simple lunch is made pleasurable by the warm and convivial team at Wild Horses. I would strongly recommend staying as many nights and days as possible, as it is rare to stay in a place that can warm your heart and soul.
Vance Kelly - Australia
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: June 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Jul 11, 2024
Many thanks for your fabulous review. It's always wonderful when people understand & appreciate the essence of the lodge & the memories that you take back with you. We have wonderful memories of both of you& the interesting conversations we shared.
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gmD1150NM wrote a review Sep 2024
Clarens, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We could not have chosen a better venue to celebrate our wedding anniversary! Trish and John were amazing hosts and went out of their way to ensure that we had a really incredible time and left with treasured memories of our long weekend and anniversary dinner - thank you! The setting and views are stunning and the lodge itself is beautiful. Each member of staff was welcoming, friendly and helpful - we honestly left feeling more like friends than guests. Oh, and the chef....well those meals were simply heavenly! If you're looking for something extra-special, look no further!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: September 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Oct 31, 2024
Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled that you chose our lodge to celebrate your wedding anniversary and that your experience was nothing short of exceptional. The Wild Horses team are delighted to hear that their efforts made your stay so memorable. It's wonderful to know you felt more like friends than guests, which is what we strive to do as we get to meet the most amazing guests, and that you enjoyed the stunning setting, beautiful lodge, and heavenly meals prepared by our chef. Your kind words and high recommendation mean the world to us. We look forward to welcoming you back for more in the future! Warmest wishes and heartfelt thanks from all of us.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jacobus Rademeyer wrote a review Feb 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed for two nights. The exceptional experience started with the owners and staff personally meeting us at the vehicle on arrival and ended with them bidding us farewell on departure. The setting is beautiful and the gardens are well cared for. With only four rooms the lodge provides you with an intimate feeling, but simultaneously gives you plenty of space to relax privately. The rooms are beautiful furbished each with its own private balcony overlooking the dam and/or the mountain. Each meal was exceptional and beautifully presented. The second evening we dined in their private wine cellar which was very special. Although the owners provide guided hikes, we did a lovely walk at our own leisure. Certainly a “must do”. We will definitely visit the lodge again.
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Date of stay: January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Feb 3, 2022
Thank you for such a lovely review. We are so happy that you both enjoyed the experience we provide at Wild Horses Lodge. We are always happy to help celebrate special evenings in our Wine Cellar and we are happy you could be a part of that moment which we hope will last forever. We can't wait to welcome you back home and hopefully for a longer stay.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
jbasso365555 wrote a review Jun 2022
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Our experience at Wild Horses did not meet our expectations at all. We expected five star furnishes and guest experience however was left dissappointed with the low quality/ neglected furnishings and offerings in the room as well as the feeling in the main areas that you have stepped into the owners personal house, almost feeling intrusive and out of place. The experience would have been fair at a 3 star accommodation rate but for what we paid for two nights this felt like a complete rip off! We did enjoy the food and the quality thereof however. We will not be returning in future.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: May 2022
1.0 of 5 bubblesValue
3.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
3.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
3.0 of 5 bubblesService
3.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jonathan Hawkins, Owner at Wild Horses Lodge
Responded Jun 16, 2022
We are so sorry that you didn't enjoy your stay. It is such a pity that you didn't let us know while you were at the lodge, even though we asked you on numerous occasions. Most people arrive at the lodge as guests & leave as friends.
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Knapie asked a question Oct 2018
Hillcrest, South Africa25 contributions6 helpful votes
How far is the lodge from Harrismith
Answer from WildHorsesLodge
Harrismith, South Africa1 helpful vote
Hello, We are about 30+- Kms from Harrismith
Answer from WildHorsesLodge
Harrismith, South Africa1 helpful vote
Good day Unfortunately our maximum amount of people we can have on the property is 30. We also do not allow day visitors Kind regards
Answer from WildHorsesLodge
Harrismith, South Africa1 helpful vote
We do not have day visitors at our lodge. We only have the max of 8 guests who can stay at our lodge at a time. Best wishes on finding somewhere for your family gathering.
Answer from Julia G
Johannesburg, South Africa108 contributions69 helpful votes
Hi It depends what you are looking for. There are only 4 rooms at the lodge, which means it is very private and secluded. Every room also has a double bed as opposed to twin beds. The seclusion means that the getaway will be quiet and intimate. The days are best spent walking/hiking around the grounds, lazing by the pool, reading a book or playing a board game. There is also a boat that belongs to the lodge that offers sunset cruises etc. but I have not yet had the opportunity to use it as it was not in commission the two times I was there. If you are looking to spend quality time with your sister, without the distractions of 'the outside world', I would highly recommend it. If you are looking to get immersed in activities and adventures together, this would not be the place for you. I hope this helps?
Samantha J wrote a tip Jan 2025
Boksburg, South Africa18 contributions11 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Just sit back and relax. It is a place to totally unwind. The dirt road is okay, but you have to take it slowly. "
Read full review
Dallyn wrote a tip Nov 2023
Roodepoort, South Africa149 contributions22 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The road in the immediate area is definitely not suited for low-profile vehicles or tyres (or motorcycles for that matter), take it slow if you must."
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Jordan PL wrote a tip Jun 2023
Kloof, South Africa116 contributions12 helpful votes
1.0 of 5 bubbles
"Don’t believe the hype."
Read full review
JUSTINE-JESSE wrote a tip Jan 2023
Pretoria, South Africa688 contributions155 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The dam view rooms are great for perfect sunrises"
Read full review
Hanneke H wrote a tip Feb 2022
The Netherlands75 contributions32 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Fill up your fuel tank in Harrismith prior to starting the last part of your journey to the lodge !"
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Harrismith area.
PRICE RANGE
$230 - $238 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaFree StateHarrismith
NUMBER OF ROOMS
4
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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WILD HORSES LODGE - Updated 2025

Frequently Asked Questions about Wild Horses Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Wild Horses Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve (1.9 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Wild Horses Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Wild Horses Lodge?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Wild Horses Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Wild Horses Lodge?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Wild Horses Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Wild Horses Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Afrikaans, and Zulu.
Does Wild Horses Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the lake view available here.
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