Huntingdon House

Originally the family home built by Maclean Kay in 1928, Huntingdon House exudes a colonial charm and unique character that cannot be recreated. This magnificent house forms the heart of Satemwa Tea Estate and is surrounded by sprawling manicured gardens with secret patio’s and terraces waiting to be discovered by guests.

As one of Malawi’s first land claims registered in 1874, Satemwa Tea Estate is undoubtedly among the countries most respected and established tea and coffee producers managed and operated by third generation members of the Cathcart Kay family. Chip, one of Maclean Kays sons, and his wife Dawn, live on the estate and Huntingdon’s guests are invited to step back in time and share some of Chips wonderful memories of his family home, discover the multitude of teas exported from the estate, and hear the fascinating history of Satemwa Estate.

The house has been tastefully refurbished to offer 5 unique suites, each individually decorated to reflect the quirks and character of this grand residence. Each area of the house has a story of it’s own from the original children’s nursery to the resident priests quarters and private Chapel. Guests are encouraged to share the colorful history of one of Malawi’s oldest homes while being spoilt by our team of professional staff.

Facilities & Activities

Huntingdon offers a number of rate options for guests wishing to include activities in the cost of their stay or for those preferring to enjoy the hospitality and meals at the house without leaving the comfort of the khonde.

Activities offered on the estate include Horse Riding, ATV/Quad Bike trails, Guided Bird walks and trails, Mountain Biking, Clay Pigeon Shooting (to be introduced later this year), Tea & Coffee Tasting and cultural visits to surrounding community projects. The Thyolo Sports Club is adjacent to the estate and guests are invited to use the facilities at the club which include a 9 hole golf course, tennis, squash and a swimming pool.

A picnic on Thyolo Mountain with it’s panoramic views to the Lower Shire Valley and Mount Mulanje are a must while evenings can be spent around a roaring fire in the grand lounge before enjoying a spectacular silver service dinner incorporating fresh estate produce.

Directions

Satemwa Tea Estate lies 30 minutes drive from the heart of Blantyre, Malawi's commercial capital. The newly surfaced road is in excellent condition and access to the estate is possible in all types of vehicle. before reaching the village of Thyolo, large signs on the main road show clearly mark the main estate gates on your right. Staff at the main gate will provide guests with a map to Huntingdon House on arrival.

Guests wishing to charter to the Estate can contact Ulendo for details of charter costs to Conforzi Airstrip, a 15 minute transfer from the Lodge.

Airport shuttles are available at a small surcharge from Chileka International Airport (BLZ) in Blantyre. South African Airways and Air Malawi have regular flights from Johannesburg, Lilongwe, Lusaka and Harare to Blantyre.