A Quiet Escape on the Outskirts of Mkhondo
Awaiting you, is the perfect overnight experience to unwind and take home fond memories of your journey.
Let’s plan a reasonable stay that suits you.
Welcome to Deo Resta Guest Lodge
Far away from the city noises, this is the place to book! All rooms are spacious and well equipped to guarantee a comfortable and relaxing stay. Special care is taken to let our guests feel welcome and at home.
We have been hosting South African and International guests and groups for many years in the comfort of our home. Having a Guest Lodge is a dream come true! We love to meet new people and shower our guests with pure South African hospitality!
About Us
Deo Resta Guest Lodge is situated in the quiet and peaceful area of the Moolman community, just a 15min drive away from Piet Retief Town in Mpumalanga. The Lodge was first known as the old Moolman Primary school which we have renovated into a unique Guest lodge. The buildings are more than 106 years old; and while remodeling, we've made the utmost effort to keep most of the building features as original as possible; keeping the history alive!
Amenities & Facilities
Our facilities offer a well-deserved relaxing and rejuvenating experience!
Parking
Free!
Secure parking is available on site (No reservation required)
Cuisine
Tea/Coffee maker
Full English & Continental breakfast
Special diet menu's (on request)
Internet
Free!
Uncapped Wi-Fi available in rooms and public areas
Services
Daily housekeeping
Laundry services (additional charge)
Invoice provided at reception
Media Entertainment
Flat-screen TV
Satellite channels
Outdoors
Outdoor furniture
BBQ facilities
Outdoor dining area
Garden
History
Our little town, Moolman, was once an extremely popular stop; particularly the train station, constructed in the early 1900s. The property was owned by Mr. Moolman & rented out to the state at a rate of 1 Shilling per year. Popularity grew & the town was a must-stop for travellers. It was during this time that the school, now our Guest Lodge, was established. It grew popular as the 2–man school as only the principal and one teacher served here through all its years. The School Property was purchased by the department of education in September of 1916 from Mr. JB Moolman. Construction of the school presumably commenced in the same year.
Moolman Primary School
Moolman school class of 1924
The school operated for 37 years and 1 term, and was closed down in April of 1954
Moolman Hotel was known for its incredible cuisine. Farmers from afar preferred Moolman as their fuel & maintenance destination for machinery as it was a warm & welcoming atmosphere awaiting them.
In 1947, King George VI, Princess Elizabeth, her mother and her sister, travelled throughout South Africa on their Royal Tour. Moolman train station was one of their stops. Here, they met South Africa’s tallest man at the time & they were welcomed with a song performed by Moolman Primary School Choir.
Sadly, in 1954, Mr. Moolman decided to retire; dividing & selling most of his farm. The state withdrew from Moolman & with no means to support their businesses, one by one, owners had to close down & eventually Moolman disappeared quietly from the map.
And so, in 2017, the van Raaijs purchased the school property, a gem long forgotten. They lived in 2 small classroom spaces while renovating the main house. At the onset of 2020, the resources necessary had become available for renovations to commence & Deo Resta Guest Lodge was established on the 1st of July 2020.
The Royal Train
The British Royal Family in Moolman
Mr. Human
Ms. Ria Fick
As Covid restrictions were eased later in October of 2021, we had our grand opening event. Hosting our guest of honor, Ms Ria Fick. At the age of 95, she is the daughter of the first principal, Mr. Human, who served for 37 years. Many old friends, who were connected in some way through the school’s history, were reunited. On this opening day, 1000 guests have visited our Guest House and all of them were equally curious about its past.
We are proud of the history that is embedded in the very foundations of our Lodge.
The memories live on here and we aspire to keep them ever present. Creating more meaningful moments, and remembering those who made it all possible.
We are proud of the history that is embedded in the very foundations of our Lodge.
The memories live on here and we aspire to keep them ever present. Creating more meaningful moments, and remembering those who made it all possible.
What Our Guests Say
We take pride in providing our guests with the best possible experience. Read what they have to say.
