Built in British colonial 1920s, the resort is named after the explorer John Hannington Speke who discovered the source of the
. It is an oasis of calm and relaxation, the perfect escape from Kampala’s busy, bustling streets. Two of its most notable features are the lagoon-sized swimming pool and horse riding stable.
Horses are a rarity in east Africa and if you are coming from neighbouring countries such as Rwanda, this will be the first public stables you will find. They also house the first horse to be born in Uganda: Silver Queen.
Horses are available to hire for solo or group expeditions. A one-hour private hack will set you back around USH 30,000 (£10/$20) weekdays and 35,000 on weekends. Helmets are available at the stable and, complete with personal escort, you will walk, trot and canter your way along local dirt tracks and main roads with a spectacular view of the lake and surrounding settlements.
Don’t forget your sun-cream though, the Ugandan heat can build up quite a sweat on horseback and by the time your return you will welcome the cool relief of the resort’s large swimming pool. There is a fee of USH 15,000 (£5/$10) for non-guests and 10,000 for residents but on a hot day it is more than worth it. There are plenty of fully-reclining sun loungers, shaded tables and even in-pool seating where you can sit in the water and sip your drink whilst watching the world float by. The pool complex also houses a very impressive gym, reputedly the largest in Uganda.
The Stables Restaurant has an impressive menu of top-quality food including toasted sandwiches, pizzas and a range of meat dishes and beverages. A main meal costs in the region of USH 18-25000 (£6/$12 – £8/$16) and they accept payment by VISA card.
After your meal you might like to walk it off with a gentle stroll down by the marina where you can sit with a drink and watch the sun set, or even book a boat ride.
Although all of these facilities are available to non-guests, if you do wish to stay on-site there is a wide range of accommodation including single and double rooms, studio apartments and traditionally-themed luxury cottages. All studio apartments are complete with en-suite bathrooms, balcony, satellite TV, telephone, Internet access, secure parking and laundry service and start from around $130 (£65) per night for a double. Cottages come in at around $500 (£250) per night and sleep up to four people.
