The Blyde Crystal Lagoon
Unclaimed Business
|1|11 Reviews (last 12 months)|This business does not respond to reviews
The Blyde Crystal Lagoon
Unclaimed Business
|1
11 Reviews (last 12 months)
Does not respond to reviews
AI Review Summary
Based on recent customer reviews, The Blyde Crystal Lagoon receives consistently negative feedback despite its visually appealing setting. Guests and residents repeatedly describe frustrating experiences with unresponsive hosts, unclear access procedures, and units that fall short of what was advertised. A recurring theme involves disputes over refunds, hygiene concerns in short-stay apartments, and broken or missing amenities. Resident owners raise serious concerns about estate management practices, levy disputes, and perceived lack of accountability from Balwin Properties and appointed managing agents. The stunning lagoon location is acknowledged, but service and management consistently overshadow it.
Performance(last 12 months):
Trustindex Rating
2NPS Score
-75Unlikely
TrustIndex
2
NPS Score
-75
Recommended: Unlikely
Review Distribution
1|11 Reviews
Sep '25 - Aug '26
Recent reviews (11)
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Share Your ExperienceNS
Nkhensani S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2024
10 May 2026, 19:53
Horrible experience at the Blyde
We made our booking through Booking.com for a stay at The Blyde Crystal Lagoon. At the time of booking, I was not aware that the unit was managed by a travel agency called Travel Narine. I booked the apartment based on the images and description provided, which clearly gave the impression that it was a lagoon-facing unit. There was also a “special offer” attached to it, and Booking.com indicated it was the last lagoon-facing unit available at that price. Naturally, this confirmed to us that the apartment overlooked the lagoon. Unfortunately, upon arrival, we discovered that the unit was not lagoon-facing at all. I immediately contacted the WhatsApp number provided to raise the issue, and that is when I learned the property was managed by Travel Narine. The assistant responding to the messages stated, “We don’t have one-bedroom apartments facing the lagoon.” As first-time visitors to the estate, this is not information we would have known, and nowhere on the booking listing was this clarified. This felt like false advertising and was extremely disappointing. Later that evening, after they sent us the entry code, we informed them that there was no electricity in the unit. Despite responding moments earlier, they completely ignored our messages regarding the electricity issue. Calls went unanswered, including the so-called emergency contact numbers. We could not charge our phones, warm food, or use basic amenities, and we spent the entire night worried about whether there would even be hot water the next morning, especially considering how cold winter nights are. The following morning, after I had already woken up early to follow up myself, they finally responded only to say that the issue “would be fixed,” with no apology, explanation, or sense of urgency. To make matters worse, the entire reason we booked at The Blyde was to enjoy the lagoon. When we attempted to access it, reception and management rudely informed us that we could not enter without the host being present without any written proof of such a rule. We explained that the host had never communicated this requirement to us, and we were simply told to take it up with them. When we contacted the host to ask why this information had not been communicated earlier so we could make arrangements, their response was, “They change the rules all the time,” followed by a promise to send someone to assist us. No one ever arrived. This was honestly one of the worst accommodation experiences we have ever had. The individuals who were supposed to assist us, Amogelang and Thendo, were unhelpful, unresponsive, and showed little concern for the inconvenience caused. Calls were ignored, messages were answered late or not at all, and at times the lines were completely disengaged. I would strongly advise others to avoid booking through Travel Narine. The lack of communication, accountability, and customer care completely ruined what should have been an enjoyable stay.
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Nkhensani S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2024
10 May 2026, 19:53
Horrible experience at the Blyde
We made our booking through Booking.com for a stay at The Blyde Crystal Lagoon. At the time of booking, I was not aware that the unit was managed by a travel agency called Travel Narine. I booked the apartment based on the images and description provided, which clearly gave the impression that it was a lagoon-facing unit. There was also a “special offer” attached to it, and Booking.com indicated it was the last lagoon-facing unit available at that price. Naturally, this confirmed to us that the apartment overlooked the lagoon. Unfortunately, upon arrival, we discovered that the unit was not lagoon-facing at all. I immediately contacted the WhatsApp number provided to raise the issue, and that is when I learned the property was managed by Travel Narine. The assistant responding to the messages stated, “We don’t have one-bedroom apartments facing the lagoon.” As first-time visitors to the estate, this is not information we would have known, and nowhere on the booking listing was this clarified. This felt like false advertising and was extremely disappointing. Later that evening, after they sent us the entry code, we informed them that there was no electricity in the unit. Despite responding moments earlier, they completely ignored our messages regarding the electricity issue. Calls went unanswered, including the so-called emergency contact numbers. We could not charge our phones, warm food, or use basic amenities, and we spent the entire night worried about whether there would even be hot water the next morning, especially considering how cold winter nights are. The following morning, after I had already woken up early to follow up myself, they finally responded only to say that the issue “would be fixed,” with no apology, explanation, or sense of urgency. To make matters worse, the entire reason we booked at The Blyde was to enjoy the lagoon. When we attempted to access it, reception and management rudely informed us that we could not enter without the host being present without any written proof of such a rule. We explained that the host had never communicated this requirement to us, and we were simply told to take it up with them. When we contacted the host to ask why this information had not been communicated earlier so we could make arrangements, their response was, “They change the rules all the time,” followed by a promise to send someone to assist us. No one ever arrived. This was honestly one of the worst accommodation experiences we have ever had. The individuals who were supposed to assist us, Amogelang and Thendo, were unhelpful, unresponsive, and showed little concern for the inconvenience caused. Calls were ignored, messages were answered late or not at all, and at times the lines were completely disengaged. I would strongly advise others to avoid booking through Travel Narine. The lack of communication, accountability, and customer care completely ruined what should have been an enjoyable stay.
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Stephne P
1 reviews | Active since Oct 2022
2 Apr 2026, 13:53
Worst host ever
What an awful experience we had. We had booked a unit for 3 adults and 4 children and was allocated unit 439. At first when we arrived, the host (YONELA) had not informed us that we needed a 6 digit code to pass security. We had to wait an hour for the host to answer her phone, with a 2 year-old in the car. When we entered the unit, we discovered that the unit had only 2 double beds, no other alternatives, for 7 seven people. On the bookimg platform, the unit indicates it also has sleeper couches, but there were none. We tried for ages to get hold of Yonela for alternative and/or extra accommodation, but she only responded to our requests after an hour. In the meantime, we found alternative accommodation and provided her with feedback that the unit was not suitable for 7 people. She is now refusing to refund us even though she admitted that she also wondered where everybody would sleep and after having been requested by the booking platform to refund. Yonela is one of the most rudest people I have ever dealt with, starting screaming matches even after she admitted she was in the wrong. For anyone wanting to book anything through Yonela, good luck, as Yonela is a very vile and unruly person.
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Stephne P
1 reviews | Active since Oct 2022
2 Apr 2026, 13:53
Worst host ever
What an awful experience we had. We had booked a unit for 3 adults and 4 children and was allocated unit 439. At first when we arrived, the host (YONELA) had not informed us that we needed a 6 digit code to pass security. We had to wait an hour for the host to answer her phone, with a 2 year-old in the car. When we entered the unit, we discovered that the unit had only 2 double beds, no other alternatives, for 7 seven people. On the bookimg platform, the unit indicates it also has sleeper couches, but there were none. We tried for ages to get hold of Yonela for alternative and/or extra accommodation, but she only responded to our requests after an hour. In the meantime, we found alternative accommodation and provided her with feedback that the unit was not suitable for 7 people. She is now refusing to refund us even though she admitted that she also wondered where everybody would sleep and after having been requested by the booking platform to refund. Yonela is one of the most rudest people I have ever dealt with, starting screaming matches even after she admitted she was in the wrong. For anyone wanting to book anything through Yonela, good luck, as Yonela is a very vile and unruly person.
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Kabelo M
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2026
2 Jan 2026, 21:06
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.
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Kabelo M
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2026
2 Jan 2026, 21:06
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.
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Khuthadzo S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2019
22 Nov 2025, 08:38
****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
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Khuthadzo S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2019
22 Nov 2025, 08:38
****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
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Khuthadzo S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2019
25 Oct 2025, 14:54
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
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Khuthadzo S
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2019
25 Oct 2025, 14:54
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
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phahla T
1 reviews | Active since Jun 2025
22 Oct 2025, 12:33
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 Jun 2025
22 Oct 2025, 12:33
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.
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Replies (0)RM
Ray M
1 reviews | Active since Jul 2018
14 Oct 2025, 15:54
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 Jul 2018
14 Oct 2025, 15:54
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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Tebogo N
1 reviews | Active since Sept 2025
15 Sept 2025, 20:23
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)
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Tebogo N
1 reviews | Active since Sept 2025
15 Sept 2025, 20:23
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
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