Our Story

The meaning of "Intle"

"Intle" (pronounced een-tleh) is a Xhosa word meaning beautiful, amazing or lovely depending on context. We chose it because it captured what we felt when we first stood on this land — and it continues to describe what guests experience when the light drops over the landscape and the world goes quiet. It is the thread that runs through everything we do: beauty without noise, luxury with space to breathe.

The land & transformation

This property was once used for hunting. When we found it, we stopped that use and began a long process of restoration and care. We wanted a place where wildlife could thrive and guests could experience the reserve on foot — not behind a vehicle. Today the land is a private reserve with free-roaming game, fynbos, and panoramic views. The lodge was built and refined over time to sit lightly on the landscape while offering every comfort.

Wildlife & walkable reserve

Intle is not a Big Five reserve by design. We have giraffe, zebra, impala, kudu and other species; there are no dangerous predators. That means guests can walk, cycle or take photos in the reserve safely. The focus is on tranquillity and connection with nature, not adrenaline. Many visitors tell us that being able to step out and walk among giraffe or watch the light change over the hills is what stays with them long after they leave.

The People Behind Intle

Intle Boutique Hotel is owned by Tracy and Eric Roelofsen, but it is powered every day by a committed team of approximately 25 staff members who bring the Intle spirit to life for our guests.

Day-to-day operations are led on-site by our General Manager, Andre, together with his department heads. Their leadership supports a strong, locally rooted team across hospitality, housekeeping, kitchen, maintenance and guest services. Many of our team members are from the surrounding communities, and their warmth, professionalism and pride are reflected in the consistency of our guest reviews and returning visitors.

Tracy leads the Intle brand and trade relationships, ensuring that the original vision of the property remains clear and protected. Eric manages the back office — finance, governance, and compliance — ensuring the business operates responsibly and professionally. Strategic decisions are made collaboratively between Tracy and Eric as owners, with Andre closely involved in operational planning and execution.

Intle works because the vision, management and team are aligned.

Private use & celebrations

Intle is designed for private use and milestone occasions. For weddings, the property is reserved exclusively — ensuring no outside guests and complete privacy for the couple and their invited guests. This allows the celebration to unfold across the entire estate without compromise.

Wedding weekends typically span Friday to Sunday, with a welcome dinner, ceremony and reception, and a relaxed farewell brunch. The setting — panoramic mountain views with the Indian Ocean in the distance — provides a natural backdrop that requires little embellishment.

Beyond weddings, Intle is well suited to exclusive corporate retreats, board strategy sessions, customer events and private VIP gatherings. The entire lodge can be reserved, placing the property and its team at your disposal. With a team of approximately 25 staff members, we are structured to deliver seamless service across accommodation, dining and event coordination.

Nature drives can be arranged as part of corporate programmes or private stays, offering time in the landscape and open space — more about scenery and reset than high-intensity safari. Spa experiences and tailor-made treatments can be arranged where needed to complement your stay or programme.

Helicopter arrivals can be accommodated by prior arrangement for private guests or special events.

Views & sense of place

The reserve sits in the Eastern Cape with views toward the Indian Ocean and the Baviaanskloof. The light here is extraordinary — golden in the morning and evening, clear and vast. Whether you are on the viewing deck, at the restaurant or in your room, the landscape is part of the experience. We have deliberately kept the design clean and low so that the views and the sense of place take centre stage.

Dining, Bar & From Land to Table

Dining at Intle is central to the guest experience. Our on-site restaurant and bar serve both resident guests and, by reservation, outside visitors.

Our kitchen works with trusted local suppliers — including Woodlands Dairy, Loerie Veg, Sebastiens Butchery and Milkwood Mushrooms — and incorporates produce from our own herb garden where possible. Menus evolve seasonally and focus on quality ingredients, balance and flavour rather than complexity.

The bar complements the dining experience with a considered wine selection and classic, well-executed cocktails. Sunset drinks overlooking the reserve are a signature part of many stays.

The approach is refined yet unpretentious — attentive service without formality for its own sake. For private functions and weddings, menus are curated in collaboration with the hosts, allowing flexibility while maintaining the Intle standard.

The region

The Eastern Cape has much to offer. Addo Elephant National Park and Big Seven experiences are within day-trip distance for those who want to add a safari element. There are also conservation and rehabilitation centres in the region focused on rescue and release; we are happy to point guests toward responsible, education-focused experiences. Closer by, Jeffreys Bay, Gqeberha and the coast provide beaches, culture and convenience.