Aberdare Country Club — Hotel in Nyeri

As a seasoned traveler, I've been privileged to experience some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, but Aberdare Country Club left me spellbound. Nestled atop a hill, approximately 24 kilometers off the Nyeri-Nairobi dual carriageway, the journey begins with a turn that’s easy to miss (a well-placed signpost 500 meters ahead of the right-hand turn would be a welcome addition for future visitors). Even our experienced Kenyan driver had to double back!

But the moment you pass through the grand gates, all frustrations melt away into wonder.

The drive through the conservancy is nothing short of magical. Warthogs forage busily in the undergrowth, zebras and antelopes graze serenely, and peacocks strut near the parking area, their vibrant plumage shimmering in the afternoon light. As the receptionist explained, the club spans over 1,500 acres of pristine conservancy land—a sanctuary alive with beauty. Though the lions have been relocated, the thrill of being so close to nature is palpable.

The children bolted happily to the play area while we adults took a leisurely tour of the lush grounds, our senses enchanted by the crisp mountain air and the sweeping views of the Aberdare Range. When lunch was announced, the culinary team’s mastery was on full display.

A decadent buffet awaited us, offering an array of succulent meats, vibrant vegetarian options, and fresh, crisp salads. The desserts? Pure indulgence. We savored every bite, our meal complemented by the serenity of the surroundings. Post-lunch, we lingered over a slow, unhurried tea, sharing laughter and nostalgic tales that spanned generations. My family—mothers, siblings, cousins, and in-laws—sat under the expansive sky, making plans for reunions in Texas and promises to return here next year.

As the late afternoon sun bathed the conservancy in golden hues, I was reminded of the old adage, "The earth laughs in flowers"—a fitting sentiment for a place as alive and vibrant as Aberdare Country Club.

For those seeking a retreat filled with scenic splendor, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that fosters connection and joy, this is an unmissable destination. It’s more than a visit; it’s an experience I eagerly await to relive, perhaps next...

Our family has been coming to this place almost yearly ever since I was a young girl but for the last 2 visits the service has been pathetic(December 2022 and this past weekend of 20th and 21st January 2024).especially at the front desk. I don't know if it's cause there were alot of white people who were being prioritized compared to us the blacks and local tourist. Or they were tired? 1.Just because I am familiar with how the hotel operates the front desk had no right to tell us we know the drill and allow guests to carry their own luggage yet they specifically say that they provide bellboys to carry guest's luggage in their bronchure.

2.The room was quite OK but the beds were too too tiny especially for the double room. I almost fell off my bed when turning. The shower area floor was too too dirty and stained.

3.For the food and dining area. Why would the servers remove the food when guests are still having their meals? Are you trying to hurry us up? But a special kudos to one waiter by the name Dennis.. His service was exemplary. The stairs leading to our rooms were poorly kept. They had just finished cutting grass but the grass on the stairs had not been swept and didn't even bother to sweep or clear the area.

The complains were put across at the front office that night and was met with alot of attitude. This translated to the checking out date when we were checking out. We had not aired out our complains but the ladies at the front desk were quick to say we will pass the information forward. To who? Which information yet we didn't air out our concern. Just so we can leave and you deal with the 'mzungus'.

Being that I grew up visiting this place.. This last visit was a pure and complete disappointment.

I DON'T THINK I WOULD GO BACK THERE AGAIN!! management do...

I’m siting at the Aberdare Country Club as I write this. I give this hotel 3 stars and 2.5 would have been more appropriate.

The check in process is not smooth. Everyone arrives around the same time 11 am-12 pm. There’s chaos and disorganization at the front desk. At least they have the sensibility to send you off to lunch at the nearby dining room while they organize themselves.

We have a cottage with an adjoining room for our kids. We arranged for 2 rooms as we wanted the separate space for our kids to sleep but to also have 2 bathrooms. Here’s the problem. The “cottage” has 1 hot water tank so the showering is difficult. We essentially have 1 shower, as each member of the family has to shower, wait 30 minutes to get some warm water and then the next person can shower. A major problem for us.

The power has gone out 3 times today, the first 2 times for no more than 3 minutes, the longest was probably 15 minutes during dinner. I would have thought a country club like this would have backup generators.

I’m disabled and they places us in a room that they told us was “3 steps down”. I said I could manage that. When we walked to the room the first time, there were 30 steps. Not great for me as the steps are cracked and uneven.

The staff is friendly and the lunch and dinner is a nice buffet with an international flair.

Overall, know there are many other hotels that are competing for business and this one seems to not want to update the property and bring it up to...