Bushman’s Nek Mountain and Trout resort engulfed by runaway bushfire

The well-known Bushman’s Nek Mountain and Trout Resort in the Southern Drakensberg mountains was engulfed by a runaway forest fire in the early hours of Friday morning.

“We are deeply saddened to confirm that Bushman’s Neck was engulfed by a devastating wildfire. The flames took away more than just a beautiful destination, it took away a place where memories were made, laughter echoed and nature’s tranquility touched our souls,” the resort’s owners said in a statement issued Friday.

Videos and photos circulating on social media show the main building shrouded in flames, while several witnesses reported seeing some of the resort’s huts and chalets in flames.

Bushman’s Nek management confirmed that no people or animals in the area were injured, except for one of the horses’ hair that had scorched.

Hotel guest Barbara Whiting said she and her husband self-evacuated from the hotel at 1:15 a.m. Friday morning after seeing “six to eight” nearby chalets go up in flames.

“When the flames came down on the lawn, we started evacuating,” Whiting said on Facebook.

“Sky-high flames shot across the roof as we drove out and our room was engulfed in smoke as we left.

“Smoke and flames were everywhere as we left the property along with about 10 other cars, and we were soon out of danger.

“We met all the other hotel guests at the Shell garage in Underberg, many still in PJs with no belongings.”

The resort said it is currently focused on relocating guests and staff, many of whom have lost or all of their belongings. It also promised to reach out to guests who would also show up in the coming days.

“As devastating as this situation is, our management team is committed to finding the opportunity that always follows disaster.”

IOL