Horrible stay at Midlands Saddle and Trout

Decided to post this as i see a similar complain for said resort here in hello peter, just a few days before we holidayed with them. Clearly first resorts and Midlands saddle have no idea how to service guests. From arrival there was 1 problem after another. Booking was for 12th- 15th Dec,arrived early and was told check in would be at 3,but to enjoy the facilities so long. In the games room the Xbox refused to work the entire stay and no one to help with no matter how many requests. No bicycles to hire although the website clearly says they available, so we left ours at home thinking we'll use the ones available. Heard then that they were sent to repairs and other resorts .

Had to go back to reception near 4:00 because still awaiting the room. Arrive to our room to find handles missing from cupboard doors, blinds in disarray, braai grid filthy and unwashed, and the wall heater in the room not working.

Understanding it to be a crazy day with check ins ....we called reception to alert maintenance, for the heater urgently as it was so cold that night for the kids. Had to call again later that night and again the next morning,but no avail. Eventually drove in the rain the next morning to go to reception to ask 4a heater ...which is pathetic service from a First Resort quality.

But the highlight came when the power outage hit on Wed night at around 5. With batteries low and no power bank the only last message we saw on the group was that the resort and eskom are working on it and candles will be delivered to each room. Having no way of communicating we waited out the storm hoping to hear/see someone soon. No one ever came out and our 2candles per chalet was long past melted out during the night. A simple recharge light would've went a long way,especially living in SA with the constant loadshedding,....you'd think it would be catered for. Alas no! Welcome to the dark ages.

Don't let me forget to mention that the chalet we had, 32A, leaked profusely during the storm, ensuring a soaked lounge and dining room, resulting in 2kids slipping and getting hurt in the semi dark. I can't be more APPALLED at the service received and no one even mentioned an apology let alone any compensation.

We were so happy to be checking out the next day...a first for my family who always insist we book an extra night. Came to reception after nearly 12 hours without lights now, no decent supper and breakfast as we had no gas stove in the chalet to our knowledge. Understandably a whole lot of tempers were flared. Reception staff had no clue on a progress report and informed us we could BUY breakfast from the restaurant, noting it is not halal friendly, so not an option for us. I have never seen such despicable service .

Met a female manager ( name escapes me)who non the less probably heard the raised voices and informed us we could have a complimentary cup of tea/coffee. My what a feat ....

I have never been more glad to be home after a so called holiday. We regularly stay at one of your resort each year and have always been prided with your service and facilities. Magalies Park holds a special place in our hearts. This was such a smack in the face. Definitely won't be considering it our FIRST option in future. Really this resort needs a whole lot of upgrade and tlc as it reflects so badly to an established name.