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Board games, scavenger hunts, and water fights—just a few ways to make your family getaway unforgettable. Step away from screens and create lasting memories together!
In a world where phones are a constant companion and life moves fast, it can feel strange when we finally take a break. We often reach for our devices even on holiday, letting the truly important moments slip away. It's important to remember that the best memories are made when we disconnect from our devices and fully engage in the present moment.
That's why we encourage our guests to step outside those digital confines and explore a new world—even just for a weekend away with family. Here are our top recommendations for fun, engaging, and budget-friendly family getaway activities to make the most of your time together.
1. Board Games: Classic Fun for the Whole Family
Board games, a timeless source of joy, never fail to bring families together. There's always one family member ready to dominate the Monopoly board, while another rolls their eyes and prefers to watch. No matter your role, a board game night is the perfect way to connect, bond (or argue), and enjoy quality time. Top board games to bring along:
Ticket to Ride
Catan
Carcassonne
Dixit
Azul
Tip: Lock your phones away for the evening and focus on the fun—remember to keep the peace.
2. Arts & Crafts: Create Lasting Holiday Memories
Unleash your creativity with arts and crafts that the whole family can enjoy. Whether you're making a souvenir to take home or simply enjoying the process, these activities encourage teamwork and creative thinking. The best part? There are so many different styles of art that no one feels left out, and the possibilities are endless.
Fun arts & crafts ideas:
DIY Handprint Art – Create a keepsake of your holiday memories.
Homemade Greeting Cards – A thoughtful gift idea for friends and family.
Painted Rock Creatures – Fun for all ages and great for decorating gardens.
Family Scrapbook – Capture your trip's best moments creatively.
DIY Tie-Dye Shirts – A fun, wearable memory of your time away.
Tip: Don't stress about the final product—it's all about the fun and laughter along the way.
3. Scavenger Hunt: Adventure Awaits
Get ready for an adventure with a scavenger hunt around the lodge. It's a great way to test problem-solving skills, explore the outdoors, and step away from social media—or, if you prefer, integrate it by using your phone to capture clues.
The only challenge? Someone has to set it up. But even that can be fun, especially if you're getting revenge on family members who made you suffer through Monopoly. Alternatively, you can ask the lodge staff to set it up for you so everyone can take part.
Types of scavenger hunts to try:
Nature Scavenger Hunt – Find unique plants, animals, or landmarks.
Photo Scavenger Hunt – Snap pictures of items from a list.
Treasure Hunt (Clue-Based) – Solve riddles to find the final prize.
Colour Scavenger Hunt – Locate objects of different colours.
Alphabet Scavenger Hunt – Find items that start with each letter.
Tip: Customise your scavenger hunt based on your surroundings for an extra challenge.
4. Wet & Wild Day: Beat the Heat with Water Fun
If you're visiting in summer, this is a must. Nothing beats a classic water fight on a hot day,
paired with a South African braai for the perfect family experience. Get your water
balloons, water guns, and a slip-and-slide for an afternoon of non-stop fun. Just don't
forget the sunblock.
Exciting water games to try:
Water Balloon Fight – Simple, fun, and always entertaining.
Slip-and-Slide Race – Compete to see who reaches the end first.
DIY Backyard Water Park – Buckets, sprinklers, and hoses create a water wonderland.
Sponge Relay Race – A great way to cool off while competing.
Water Gun Tag – Stay dry for as long as you can.
Tip: Bring extra towels and a change of clothes—things are about to get messy.
5. Murder Mystery Night: A Thrilling Family Challenge
This might overlap with board games, but it deserves its own spot. A murder mystery night is an exciting way to work together, dress up, and channel your inner detective. You can choose from a variety of pre-made kits or write your own mystery, which can be a fun creative project for any aspiring writers in the family. The game usually involves assigning roles, solving clues, and uncovering the 'murderer '. This activity is highly recommended for at least one night of your trip.
Best murder mystery games to try:
Clue (Cluedo) – A timeless classic.
Outfoxed! – Great for younger detectives.
Chronicles of Crime – A modern take with an interactive app.
Mystery at the Abbey – A medieval-style mystery.
Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game – Ideal for true crime lovers.
Tip: Assign roles in advance so everyone can get into character.
Make Your Family Getaway Unforgettable
These are just a few ideas to make your family trip memorable. The goal is simple: spend quality time together away from the busyness of life. The best part? These activities are budget-friendly, so you don't have to break the bank to create unforgettable memories. Next time you head out for a weekend away, remember these activities—because the best holidays aren't just about where you go, but who you spend them with.
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