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Reilly's Rock is situated on Mlilwane Game Sanctuary in the Lobamba area just below Ezulwini Valley. The turn-off to the dirt road leading to Mlilwane is 500m past the entrance to eLudzidzini Palace if driving from Ezulwini on the main road.
Formally the home of Mickey Reilly, one of Eswatini's earliest white settlers (Formerly Swaziland) and a highly entrepreneurial man, the house has remained in the family and in the mid-1990’s was transformed into a unique hilltop lodge tastefully decorated in keeping with its colonial roots by Eswatini's conservation team, Ted and Liz Reilly. Notwithstanding the necessary subtle additions and renovations, the house still stands as it was built almost a century ago. Reilly’s Rock is steeped in intriguing history, the main building was built of stone in exchange for an ox-wagon in the early 1900’s, encompassing Eswatini, conservation in the Kingdom and the Reilly family.
The original house has four en-suite bedrooms, all accessible form the veranda. Separate from the house is the cottage encircled by a wide veranda comprising of two en-suite rooms with a communal lounge and fireplace.
Large double room. En-suite with both bath and shower. Fireplace in room.
Double room. En-suite with shower. Leads out into the garden.
Standard double room. En-suite bathroom with shower.
Standard double room in a 2 room cottage. En-suite bathroom with bath.
Standard twin room in 2 room garden cottage. En-suite bathroom with bath.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Eco Friendly, Lounge, Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Complimentary Wi-Fi, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Lounge Area, Safe, Shower
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Cycling, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Viewing Hide, Game Walks, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided)
Activities Nearby
Cultural Tours, Cycling, Game Drives, Game Walks, Golf, Hiking, Historical Tours, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Massages, Mountain Biking, Museums
Reilly's Rock has a number of short trails through the Botanical Gardens, where rare and threatened antelope and plant species are a highlight. Reilly's is also linked to Mlilwane's trail network of ±20km of trails, extending through a variety of habitats from acquatic, grassland, riverine to montane - climbing Nyonyane Summit is highly recommended.
Embark on an open 4x4 vehicle with a trained guide to explore Mlilwane Game Sanctuary. Game drives are a wonderfully relaxed opportunity to observe and take stunning pictures of the sanctuary. There are a number of variations on offer:
*Sunrise Game Drive (2hr) – Take advantage of the early morning light, and watch nature wake to a new day. Tea/coffee and a snack are included.
*Sunset Game Drive (2hr) – A short exploration of the plains before heading up Nyonyane Mountain (the infamous Execution Rock) in time to enjoy the sunset over the distant mountains. A drink is included.
*Roan Drive (1.5hr) – A guided excursion visiting the Roan Antelope breeding project, excludes drinks/snacks.
Getting amongst the wildlife on horseback, or simply breathing in the scenery and fresh air is a true romantic African Safari. Our rides adopt a pace suitable to the group, with complete beginners and experienced riders catered for. The aim is on viewing the wildlife on the plains of Mlilwane from close proximity, but our guides - at their sole discretion - will happily pick up the pace if they feel the group is able. The hourly horse rides are perfect for riders with limited experience or time constraints.
Mountain bikes may be hired by the hour for self-guided or guided adventures – or guests may bring their own at no extra cost. Dirt roads and certain single-track trails for a little more fun give cyclist a wide range of technical options, from the steep mountain to flat gentle game viewing. Cyclists are always reminded that wildlife has right of way and speeding is not an eco-activity. Our bikes are well maintained and available at Mlilwane Rest Camp Reception.
Every child dreams of riding a horse – and Chubeka Trails offers the perfect happy first experience.
Kiddies are crowned with helmets, placed in the saddle with reins and mane in hand and rock to the pony’s rhythm while our guides lead the pony on foot around the Rest Camp for about 15 minutes, passing warthogs and whatever is in the open Animal Inkhundla at the time!
Visit Mlilwane's neighbouring Chief's Village for an informative and fun authentic traditional experience. Our guide will meet the group at our Sangweni Gate, and lead the short walk to the homestead, sharing the do’s and don’ts and facilitating interpretation. Hosted by our vibrant, energetic and interactive Chief, learn a little siSwati, try your hand at plaiting ‘Lutindzi’ grass or grinding maize. This is a group activity hosted by our local Chief, giving guests an insight to the way of life in rural Eswatini (Formely Swaziland).
Most of Mlilwane’s roads are suitable for normal sedans, with exception of the mountain roads. Self-drives are a wonderfully relaxed opportunity to observe and take stunning pictures of the sanctuary, please don’t forget your map!
