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The moment I received an invitation to speak at an expo being held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, I felt elated to escape from the sweltering heat in Dubai and get back on the travel trail after an exceptionally long and painful COVID-19 break.
The event over, I headed straight out of Addis Ababa – a one hour drive from the city to the picturesque town of Bishoftu. Located approximately 50 kilometres from the city, this quaint town is known as Ethiopia’s resort town and known for its numerous lakes.
I chose to stay at the picturesque resort called Asham Africa located on the shores of the oval-shaped Bishoftu Lake known for its placid waters and natural surroundings.
No doubt, there are many other modern resorts in the area, but the authentic African feel that this resort offers was hardly comparable with what was on offer by its competitors. Perched high on the lakeshore hill, Asham Africa Resort offers breathtaking views of the the Bishoftu Lake from each of its 32 rooms and chalets. Winding walkways connect the resort’s main reception and dining areas with the chalets further down the hill.
Nature Retreat
The entire property is covered with a myriad of flowers, plants, trees and shrubs – giving it that authentic African feel – something that we Dubai residents are so fond of.
The walk down from the reception to my chalet located down the hill slope was an experience in itself. The entire pathway to my lakeside chalet was decked with a wide range of colorful flowers and ornamental plants and trees. It almost felt like walking through a botanical garden as I enjoyed the melodious tweets and shrill calls of the many birds that call the resort their home.
The room was spacious, to say the least. It comes with a double bed, neatly mosquito netted and a complete sitting area with three-seater sofa set and central table. The bathroom was spacious too and even had a jacuzzi as well as hot running water.
However the highlight of the accommodation is undoubtedly the spacious balcony that offers unhindered views of the picturesque Lake Bishoftu that spreads out in front of the resort like a shiny, smooth carpet of water. As I stood there gazing across the lake, the cool wind in my hair and the sound of chirping birds greeting me, I was transported into another world – far from the madding crowds!
Rustic African Elegance
The overall design and architecture of the resort, both its public areas and private chalets, reflects an elegant mixture of rustic African elegance and modern luxury. The materials used to build and decorate the resort – bamboo, timber, stone, and natural materials – are all amply understated, with subtle natural textures and colors that give the property its quaint African look and feel.
As I walked around the resort I realized that the architectural elements are part of the local vernacular architecture of the Bishoftu area. The traditional African culture is further highlighted with hand-picked antiques which are displayed at the resort’s private art gallery, adding to the resort’s typical rustic African ambience.
Middle East Travellers
Indeed, for travellers from Dubai and the Middle East in general, Asham Africa Resort offers a perfect getaway during the summer months. It’s nature retreat that offers all the comforts of a home located in unspoilt natural surroundings.
“We welcome visitors from the Middle East,” said Sintayehu Alemayehu, Operations Manager of Asham Africa Resort. “Our spacious chalets are perfect for large family groups as well as other travellers from the Middle East region. We offer halal food and a wholesome family environment that tourists from the Middle East will surely enjoy and feel comfortable with” he said.
Comfortable is what I surely felt as I explored the resort during my short yet enjoyable stay at this unique resort. The dining terrace on the top deck of the property is offers magnificent views of the surrounding areas and serves some delectable meals including international cuisine, traditional Ethiopian food, pizzas and a wide selection of meat and fish dishes.
Activities Galore
The state-of-the-art gymnasium on the property is a perfect place for fitness freaks wanting to maintain their fitness regimen even when on holiday. For the more leisure inclined, there is a well-equipped spa and massage centre that offers a perfect option for those looking for relaxation and rest. Or you can just opt to spend a lazy afternoon beside in the swimming pool.
You can even take a boat ride across the lake or wander around the resort’s exquisite art gallery and browse through the impressive collection of paintings and artworks on display.
The staff are friendly and helpful. The overall cleanliness and hygiene is upto international standards.
One word of caution though – since the resort is built on a lakeside hill it will obviously not be a perfect choice for elderly people as well as those with mobility issues.
Yes, the isolated location is part of the attraction for most guests, yet it’s my duty to inform you that there aren’t any restaurants, shops or night life within walking distance (although it’s just a 15 minute ride to Bishoftu bazaar if you are in need to venture outside the resort into the public area).
While at Asham Africa Resort you should also visit nearby tourist attractions like Mount Yerer, Green Crater Lake and Lake Hora Kiloli. Bishoftu is also home to the Ethiopian Air Force and the Harar Meda Airport, as well as a station on the Addis Ababa–Djibouti Railway.
All in all, I had a wonderful time at the Asham Africa Resort and will surely be back for a longer stay at this secret gem tucked beside Lake Bishoftu.
Best Time to Visit Bishoftu
For travellers from the Middle East, the best time to visit Bishoftu is between May to August. These are months when desert-dwelling visitors from the Middle East will also enjoy the rainy season – for obvious reasons.
Amenities
- Swimming Pool
- Boat Ride
- Art Gallery
- Spa
- Gymnasium
- Massage
How To Get There
Bole International Airport is located 60 kilometres from the hotel and is served by many full-service as well as low cost carriers. It will take you approximately an hour to reach the hotel from the airport.
The resort offers shuttle pick up and drop off service from and to the Bole International Airport on request at a nominal cost.
Through The Lens…
