TB
The Blyde Crystal Lagoon
Unclaimed Business
TB
The Blyde Crystal Lagoon
Unclaimed Business
10 Reviews (last 12 months)
Does not respond to reviews
AI Review Summary
Based on recent customer reviews, The Blyde Crystal Lagoon receives overwhelmingly negative feedback despite its attractive lagoon setting. Guests consistently report dirty and poorly equipped units, unresponsive hosts, and difficulty obtaining damage deposit refunds. Residents highlight serious estate management concerns including disputes over levies, privacy breaches, restricted access, noise issues, and neglected common areas. Multiple reviewers describe encounters with cockroaches, broken appliances, and unhygienic bedding. Communication failures through booking platforms leave some guests stranded on arrival. While one reviewer praised recent security improvements and CEO engagement, the dominant sentiment reflects deep dissatisfaction with management priorities and guest experience.
Performance(last 12 months):
TrustIndex
0
Ranking
#9
in Travel & Vacation
NPS Score
-67
Recommended: Unlikely
Review Distribution
1|10 Reviews
Jun '25 - May '26
5(0%)
4(0%)
3(0%)
2(0%)
1(100%)
5(0%)
4(0%)
3(0%)
2(0%)
1(100%)
Frequently Asked Questions About The Blyde Crystal Lagoon
Based on recent customer reviews, The Blyde Crystal Lagoon receives overwhelmingly negative feedback despite its attractive lagoon setting. Guests consistently report dirty and poorly equipped units, unresponsive hosts, and difficulty obtaining damage deposit refunds. Residents highlight serious estate management concerns including disputes over levies, privacy breaches, restricted access, noise issues, and neglected common areas. Multiple reviewers describe encounters with cockroaches, broken appliances, and unhygienic bedding. Communication failures through booking platforms leave some guests stranded on arrival. While one reviewer praised recent security improvements and CEO engagement, the dominant sentiment reflects deep dissatisfaction with management priorities and guest experience.
The Blyde Crystal Lagoon has a TrustIndex of 0 out of 10 on Hellopeter, based on 10 reviews in the last 12 months. Hellopeter has tracked The Blyde Crystal Lagoon across 50 total reviews. How is the TrustIndex calculated? →
Recent reviews (10)
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Share Your ExperienceKM
Kabelo M
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
2 Jan 2026, 19:06
Unacceptable Service
I'm so disappointed with bookings.com , I made a booking on the 21st of December for me and family to go The Blyde. Upon our arrival we couldn't get hold of the "host" tried contacting her several times with no response. We had to wait 3 hours before the customer centre could tell us that unfortunately they can't accommodate us without a reason. If there was a negative rating I would give it to them.
Helpful (0)
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Kabelo M
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
2 Jan 2026, 19:06
Unacceptable Service
I'm so disappointed with bookings.com , I made a booking on the 21st of December for me and family to go The Blyde. Upon our arrival we couldn't get hold of the "host" tried contacting her several times with no response. We had to wait 3 hours before the customer centre could tell us that unfortunately they can't accommodate us without a reason. If there was a negative rating I would give it to them.
0
Replies (0)RS
Robinson S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
6 Dec 2025, 07:32
Manipulation and Coersion of Residents at Blyde Crystal Lagoon
The Blyde Riverwalk Estate Lagoon drive Willow Park Manor 0054 Subject: Important Information for Blyde Residents Regarding Upcoming Levy & STL Vote To my fellow Blyde residents, I am sharing the summary below, which is based on a letter circulated by our neighbour, Mohamed Osman, and supported by official documents. I aim to ensure all residents have access to the same details to make informed decisions. Key Facts and Timeline: 1. On 13 November 2025, Balwin CEO Steve Brookes issued a letter stating Balwin and the trustees have decided to end their involvement with STL as of 28 February 2026. 2. The same letter indicated that STL operations have resulted in additional costs to the estate. 3. The letter stated that a 63% levy increase will be implemented if STL continues to operate. 4. A vote is being called for residents to decide on the future of STL operations. 5. Balwin Properties operates commercial entities within the estate, including a hotel and a restaurant. 6. Hotel guests have access to the broader estate and are not restricted to the hotel or lifestyle centre premises. This has raised resident concerns regarding security and conduct, as these guests are patrons of the on-site commercial facilities. 7. It is known that Balwin intends to build a second hotel within the estate. The operational model for this proposed hotel is not yet clear. If it operates on the same short-term rental model as the existing hotel, the current issues of access, security, and impact on communal resources would be compounded. 8. On 12 September 2025, a court ruling mandated that STL cease operations. It is a matter of public record that the hotel on the estate has been identified in other communications as operating under an STL model. 9. Despite the court order of 12 September 2025, STL activities, including those associated with the hotel, have continued. The enforcement status and legal implications of this continuation are a matter of record. 10. On 27 November 2025, Mohamed Osman sent a letter to Balwin's CEO, Head of Legal, and the Estate Manager listing specific concerns and requesting clarification on these points. 11. On 4 December 2025, a response was received from Balwin's attorneys, BK Inc., stating the letter contained "factually incorrect" and "misleading" allegations but did not specify which points were incorrect. 12. Also on 4 December 2025, Balwin CEO Steve Brookes sent WhatsApp messages to Mohamed Osman stating "As usual, you are incorrect" and "Please stop communicating with me or else I will get an interdict against you." 13. Documentation referenced includes correspondence with Balwin, photographic evidence of conditions within the estate, records regarding apartment defects, and information on hotel access. The Core Issue for Resident Consideration: There is a perceived conflict of interest. Residents are being asked to vote on discontinuing STL operations under the threat of a significant levy increase. Balwin, which is advocating for this vote, also operates a hotel on the estate that functions as STL. It is reasonable for residents to question whether this vote is in the best interest of the community or primarily benefits Balwin's commercial interests. Purpose of This Post: I am sharing this so all residents have access to the same factual timeline and documents. I encourage every resident to review all available information, ask questions, and make an informed decision about the upcoming vote. Transparency and collective decision-making are vital for our community. Respectfully, Robinson Shai
Helpful (0)
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Robinson S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
6 Dec 2025, 07:32
Manipulation and Coersion of Residents at Blyde Crystal Lagoon
The Blyde Riverwalk Estate Lagoon drive Willow Park Manor 0054 Subject: Important Information for Blyde Residents Regarding Upcoming Levy & STL Vote To my fellow Blyde residents, I am sharing the summary below, which is based on a letter circulated by our neighbour, Mohamed Osman, and supported by official documents. I aim to ensure all residents have access to the same details to make informed decisions. Key Facts and Timeline: 1. On 13 November 2025, Balwin CEO Steve Brookes issued a letter stating Balwin and the trustees have decided to end their involvement with STL as of 28 February 2026. 2. The same letter indicated that STL operations have resulted in additional costs to the estate. 3. The letter stated that a 63% levy increase will be implemented if STL continues to operate. 4. A vote is being called for residents to decide on the future of STL operations. 5. Balwin Properties operates commercial entities within the estate, including a hotel and a restaurant. 6. Hotel guests have access to the broader estate and are not restricted to the hotel or lifestyle centre premises. This has raised resident concerns regarding security and conduct, as these guests are patrons of the on-site commercial facilities. 7. It is known that Balwin intends to build a second hotel within the estate. The operational model for this proposed hotel is not yet clear. If it operates on the same short-term rental model as the existing hotel, the current issues of access, security, and impact on communal resources would be compounded. 8. On 12 September 2025, a court ruling mandated that STL cease operations. It is a matter of public record that the hotel on the estate has been identified in other communications as operating under an STL model. 9. Despite the court order of 12 September 2025, STL activities, including those associated with the hotel, have continued. The enforcement status and legal implications of this continuation are a matter of record. 10. On 27 November 2025, Mohamed Osman sent a letter to Balwin's CEO, Head of Legal, and the Estate Manager listing specific concerns and requesting clarification on these points. 11. On 4 December 2025, a response was received from Balwin's attorneys, BK Inc., stating the letter contained "factually incorrect" and "misleading" allegations but did not specify which points were incorrect. 12. Also on 4 December 2025, Balwin CEO Steve Brookes sent WhatsApp messages to Mohamed Osman stating "As usual, you are incorrect" and "Please stop communicating with me or else I will get an interdict against you." 13. Documentation referenced includes correspondence with Balwin, photographic evidence of conditions within the estate, records regarding apartment defects, and information on hotel access. The Core Issue for Resident Consideration: There is a perceived conflict of interest. Residents are being asked to vote on discontinuing STL operations under the threat of a significant levy increase. Balwin, which is advocating for this vote, also operates a hotel on the estate that functions as STL. It is reasonable for residents to question whether this vote is in the best interest of the community or primarily benefits Balwin's commercial interests. Purpose of This Post: I am sharing this so all residents have access to the same factual timeline and documents. I encourage every resident to review all available information, ask questions, and make an informed decision about the upcoming vote. Transparency and collective decision-making are vital for our community. Respectfully, Robinson Shai
0
Replies (0)KS
Khuthadzo S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
22 Nov 2025, 06:38
****mers
We booked at the blydes in 24 October 2025 we checked out on 26 October. We paid R1000 fee for damages which is refundable if there's no damages, okay they charged us R500 for and they have to repay R500 back till to date no refund they don't even pick up calls they don't reply to messages
Helpful (0)
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Khuthadzo S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
22 Nov 2025, 06:38
****mers
We booked at the blydes in 24 October 2025 we checked out on 26 October. We paid R1000 fee for damages which is refundable if there's no damages, okay they charged us R500 for and they have to repay R500 back till to date no refund they don't even pick up calls they don't reply to messages
0
Replies (0)KS
Khuthadzo S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
25 Oct 2025, 12:54
Bad service
I wish i can give 0 star if it was possible We booked for a weekend at room 378 unti 34 yerrrr the service is very bad the place is very dirty, they don't pots plates everything u have to ask even a simple braai stand dololo.... Im totally disappointed with the service we got
Helpful (0)
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Khuthadzo S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
25 Oct 2025, 12:54
Bad service
I wish i can give 0 star if it was possible We booked for a weekend at room 378 unti 34 yerrrr the service is very bad the place is very dirty, they don't pots plates everything u have to ask even a simple braai stand dololo.... Im totally disappointed with the service we got
0
Replies (0)pT
phahla T
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
22 Oct 2025, 10:33
The Blyde crystal lagoon
Apartment 1401 Owned by Whitney, we got there for a weekend and there was No water and Electricity for the whole weekend. We did not ask for a refund because she allowed an opportunity to come and rebook again without a payment. When it's our time to come back the lady has blocked us on our socials. The Blyde is mis-managed and full of opportunistic apartment owners and the management does not have a problem with it. Book with them at your own risk.
Helpful (0)
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phahla T
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
22 Oct 2025, 10:33
The Blyde crystal lagoon
Apartment 1401 Owned by Whitney, we got there for a weekend and there was No water and Electricity for the whole weekend. We did not ask for a refund because she allowed an opportunity to come and rebook again without a payment. When it's our time to come back the lady has blocked us on our socials. The Blyde is mis-managed and full of opportunistic apartment owners and the management does not have a problem with it. Book with them at your own risk.
0
Replies (0)RM
Ray M
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
14 Oct 2025, 13:54
Disappointing Stay Beautiful Lagoon, Terrible Unit Management
The Lagoon is stunning, but our stay was extremely disappointing. The unit was dirty on arrival filthy mop, mismatched and broken cutlery, dirty dishcloths, and bedding that smelled used. I reported it to Beatrice (host) and Shebare (subhost). They sent cleaners with no uniforms, who simply turned the bedding around and sprayed it instead of changing it. We also weren’t informed about access to the Lagoon gate, which caused a long, inconvenient walk and a 30-minute wait for an exit code. For R8,000, the fridge didn’t work (had to be refilled with gas), the shower door was broken, and the dishwasher was unusable. Their “apology” was a Coke and a bottle of wine completely inadequate for such poor service. Beautiful location, but shockingly bad management and zero attention to guest comfort or value for money. Management needs to take serious action; guests deserve basic hygiene, honesty, and value for their money.
Helpful (0)
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Ray M
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
14 Oct 2025, 13:54
Disappointing Stay Beautiful Lagoon, Terrible Unit Management
The Lagoon is stunning, but our stay was extremely disappointing. The unit was dirty on arrival filthy mop, mismatched and broken cutlery, dirty dishcloths, and bedding that smelled used. I reported it to Beatrice (host) and Shebare (subhost). They sent cleaners with no uniforms, who simply turned the bedding around and sprayed it instead of changing it. We also weren’t informed about access to the Lagoon gate, which caused a long, inconvenient walk and a 30-minute wait for an exit code. For R8,000, the fridge didn’t work (had to be refilled with gas), the shower door was broken, and the dishwasher was unusable. Their “apology” was a Coke and a bottle of wine completely inadequate for such poor service. Beautiful location, but shockingly bad management and zero attention to guest comfort or value for money. Management needs to take serious action; guests deserve basic hygiene, honesty, and value for their money.
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Replies (0)TN
Tebogo N
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
15 Sept 2025, 18:23
Harassment at The Blyde Riverwalk Estate
An Urgent and Heartfelt Message from a Resident of The Blyde Dear friends, family, and fellow residents, I am currently in the ICU, fighting for my life. My heart is under stress, my blood pressure is dangerously elevated, and I am here because of the toll that recent events have taken on my health due to Balwin and their Estate Management. I felt it was important to share my story, not just for myself, but for anyone who might be considering investing or living in any of Balwin’s properties, especially The Blyde. As an owner residing here, I have faced unimaginable frustration, rage, and injustice at the hands of Balwin and their EM. What started as a dispute over levies has spiralled into a nightmare that has severely impacted my health and well-being. Balwin and the previous EM, Landsdowne, and current EM, Rise Properties, forced a double levy upon me. When I failed to pay, they imposed penalties and interest, knowing full well the financial strain it caused. To make matters worse, they claim they only hired lawyers on a contingency basis, only to then add the legal costs to the levy account, which was not taxed, and interest to the levy account, relentlessly piling on charges. It would seem that Balwin or the EM are acting as debt collectors for the attorneys. Beyond the financial hardship, they also forced residents like myself to park outside the estate and walk through the pedestrian entrance, an exhausting and physically taxing ordeal. For me, this walking triggered serious health issues, culminating in my hospitalization. Balwin and Rise Properties, as I was advised, are guilty of spoliation. Also, levy accounts are strictly for levies and not for untaxed legal fees. My attorney is engaging with Balwin and its representatives regarding these issues. Now I am here, battling for my life, and I cannot help but reflect on the injustice I have endured. I want to make it clear: there were other avenues available to Balwin and their EM to resolve these issues, yet they chose to push matters into the High Court in Johannesburg, a move that, in my view, was designed to cripple residents with exorbitant legal costs. I have appointed legal representation to aid me in this already difficult time. My current attorney is assisting me, but the costs are exorbitant since Balwin used the High Court in Johannesburg. I am forced to use my attorney, plus an advocate, as well as a corresponding attorney, which is extremely costly. I want to warn others: do your homework before entering into agreements with Balwin. Read reviews, speak with residents, and understand the true nature of these dealings. My hope is that no one else has to suffer as I have. While I lay here in the ICU, I felt it was necessary to share my experience, in the hope that awareness will lead to better accountability and care for residents. Please be cautious, and remember that your health and well-being matter most. With tears in my eyes, I can truly state that I regret purchasing from Balwin.
Helpful (0)
|Replies (0)TN
Tebogo N
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
15 Sept 2025, 18:23
Harassment at The Blyde Riverwalk Estate
An Urgent and Heartfelt Message from a Resident of The Blyde Dear friends, family, and fellow residents, I am currently in the ICU, fighting for my life. My heart is under stress, my blood pressure is dangerously elevated, and I am here because of the toll that recent events have taken on my health due to Balwin and their Estate Management. I felt it was important to share my story, not just for myself, but for anyone who might be considering investing or living in any of Balwin’s properties, especially The Blyde. As an owner residing here, I have faced unimaginable frustration, rage, and injustice at the hands of Balwin and their EM. What started as a dispute over levies has spiralled into a nightmare that has severely impacted my health and well-being. Balwin and the previous EM, Landsdowne, and current EM, Rise Properties, forced a double levy upon me. When I failed to pay, they imposed penalties and interest, knowing full well the financial strain it caused. To make matters worse, they claim they only hired lawyers on a contingency basis, only to then add the legal costs to the levy account, which was not taxed, and interest to the levy account, relentlessly piling on charges. It would seem that Balwin or the EM are acting as debt collectors for the attorneys. Beyond the financial hardship, they also forced residents like myself to park outside the estate and walk through the pedestrian entrance, an exhausting and physically taxing ordeal. For me, this walking triggered serious health issues, culminating in my hospitalization. Balwin and Rise Properties, as I was advised, are guilty of spoliation. Also, levy accounts are strictly for levies and not for untaxed legal fees. My attorney is engaging with Balwin and its representatives regarding these issues. Now I am here, battling for my life, and I cannot help but reflect on the injustice I have endured. I want to make it clear: there were other avenues available to Balwin and their EM to resolve these issues, yet they chose to push matters into the High Court in Johannesburg, a move that, in my view, was designed to cripple residents with exorbitant legal costs. I have appointed legal representation to aid me in this already difficult time. My current attorney is assisting me, but the costs are exorbitant since Balwin used the High Court in Johannesburg. I am forced to use my attorney, plus an advocate, as well as a corresponding attorney, which is extremely costly. I want to warn others: do your homework before entering into agreements with Balwin. Read reviews, speak with residents, and understand the true nature of these dealings. My hope is that no one else has to suffer as I have. While I lay here in the ICU, I felt it was necessary to share my experience, in the hope that awareness will lead to better accountability and care for residents. Please be cautious, and remember that your health and well-being matter most. With tears in my eyes, I can truly state that I regret purchasing from Balwin.
0
Replies (0)RS
Robinson S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
13 Sept 2025, 13:12
Beware: Harassment and False Levy Claims at The Blyde
Hello everyone, I am compelled to bring to your urgent attention the prolonged injustice I have endured at the hands of Balwin Properties and former Estate Management Landsdowne, now replaced by Rise Properties, in relation to my property at The Blyde Estate. Since July 2022, I have been wrongly accused of owing levies which, as my records and proof of payment clearly reflected, were fully settled. Despite repeated attempts on my part to demonstrate this fact, I was met with harassment in the form of successive debt collectors, attorneys, and legal threats. Each collector abandoned the matter once I furnished proof only for another to be appointed, perpetuating a cycle of ************ and distress. This conduct is not only unjust but ********. Levy accounts are strictly for levies and lawful charges, not for inflated interest, untaxed legal fees, or fabricated arrears. Yet, these amounts were unilaterally added to my levy statements, escalating over time and creating an entirely false debt against me. Because I believed I had a prima facie case, I was forced to represent myself in legal proceedings. I am not a lawyer and had to obtain ad hoc legal advice at significant cost. Throughout this period, I was denied the ability to operate my property as a BnB, the very purpose for which I purchased it, thereby stripping me of my right to generate income. The consequences have been devastating: • Financial harm through unnecessary legal costs, wrongful levy charges, and lost income. • Emotional and mental harm, as this relentless pursuit caused extreme distress, anxiety, and deterioration of my health. • Reputational harm, as I was continuously portrayed as a defaulting owner despite my compliance. It was only after I formally appointed professional legal counsel, Mr. Mohamed Osman, an Attorney from Maraga Attorneys, that The Blyde Body Corporate finally acknowledged the truth. The alleged debt and its compounded interest were eventually s****ped. However, this concession came far too late. The damage to my finances, my wellbeing, and my trust has already been done. Despite acknowledging that they incorrectly invoiced me, they refused any compensation for the grief they imposed upon me. One might get the impression Balwin, and their former EM Lansdowne feel they are above the law and are not accountable for wrong doings. I am writing to alert the public at large regarding these issues and my only advice is to tread cautiously when dealing with Balwin or their appointed EM. Their actions amount to maladministration and dereliction of fiduciary duty in managing levy accounts, harassment and spoliation by engaging in repeated, baseless legal action, negligence and bad faith, resulting in quantifiable financial and personal damage.
Helpful (0)
|Replies (0)RS
Robinson S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
13 Sept 2025, 13:12
Beware: Harassment and False Levy Claims at The Blyde
Hello everyone, I am compelled to bring to your urgent attention the prolonged injustice I have endured at the hands of Balwin Properties and former Estate Management Landsdowne, now replaced by Rise Properties, in relation to my property at The Blyde Estate. Since July 2022, I have been wrongly accused of owing levies which, as my records and proof of payment clearly reflected, were fully settled. Despite repeated attempts on my part to demonstrate this fact, I was met with harassment in the form of successive debt collectors, attorneys, and legal threats. Each collector abandoned the matter once I furnished proof only for another to be appointed, perpetuating a cycle of ************ and distress. This conduct is not only unjust but ********. Levy accounts are strictly for levies and lawful charges, not for inflated interest, untaxed legal fees, or fabricated arrears. Yet, these amounts were unilaterally added to my levy statements, escalating over time and creating an entirely false debt against me. Because I believed I had a prima facie case, I was forced to represent myself in legal proceedings. I am not a lawyer and had to obtain ad hoc legal advice at significant cost. Throughout this period, I was denied the ability to operate my property as a BnB, the very purpose for which I purchased it, thereby stripping me of my right to generate income. The consequences have been devastating: • Financial harm through unnecessary legal costs, wrongful levy charges, and lost income. • Emotional and mental harm, as this relentless pursuit caused extreme distress, anxiety, and deterioration of my health. • Reputational harm, as I was continuously portrayed as a defaulting owner despite my compliance. It was only after I formally appointed professional legal counsel, Mr. Mohamed Osman, an Attorney from Maraga Attorneys, that The Blyde Body Corporate finally acknowledged the truth. The alleged debt and its compounded interest were eventually s****ped. However, this concession came far too late. The damage to my finances, my wellbeing, and my trust has already been done. Despite acknowledging that they incorrectly invoiced me, they refused any compensation for the grief they imposed upon me. One might get the impression Balwin, and their former EM Lansdowne feel they are above the law and are not accountable for wrong doings. I am writing to alert the public at large regarding these issues and my only advice is to tread cautiously when dealing with Balwin or their appointed EM. Their actions amount to maladministration and dereliction of fiduciary duty in managing levy accounts, harassment and spoliation by engaging in repeated, baseless legal action, negligence and bad faith, resulting in quantifiable financial and personal damage.
0
Replies (0)