Exploring Lakowe Lakes, West Africa’s best-kept secret

Have you ever longed for an escape from the city’s chaotic rhythm? The kind of place where the noise of car horns and the sight of endless brown roofs are replaced by lush green lawns and a profound sense of peace? Then you understand why Lakowe Lakes Golf and Country Estate’s flagship event is called The Emerald Invitational: Escape to the Greens (ETTG). This hidden gem, spread across 308 hectares, is a world of its own — a sanctuary of luxury, tranquility, and the good life.

While some call it West Africa’s best-kept secret, the golfers’ getaway would no longer be a
secret after the ETTG by month end. Driving from Ojodu Berger, the Southernmost part of
Lagos, the trip to Lakowe Lakes is about 1hour, 45 minutes on a normal traffic day in Lagos.
Lakowe Lakes itself is to the east of Lagos along the Lekki-Epe expressway, Ibeju Lekki, an
area currently seeing significant developments and gradually the Lagos Newtown epithet.

A visit to Lakowe Lakes is a journey from the bustling streets of Lagos to a serene, picture-
perfect landscape. The moment you enter the property, the smooth, winding roads invite you to slow down. You might feel the urge to ditch your car and explore on a bicycle or scooter, a
feeling amplified by the sight of golf carts gliding between the clubhouse and the driving range.

Even the waste bins are camouflaged, blending seamlessly into the scenery with their green,
filigree designs, a subtle nod to the resort’s commitment to aesthetic harmony.

A cosy cottage getaway

Arriving on a Saturday evening, you’ll be greeted by an ambiance that makes leaving the
cottage difficult, even with a list of tempting activities waiting. The architecture is a beautiful
blend of minimalist, vernacular, and Balinese styles, creating a space that feels both elegant
and inviting. A handwritten note and a basket of goodies add a personal touch, setting the stage
for an intimate weekend retreat.

A personable concierge will outline a variety of complimentary activities, from Swedish
massages and swimming to tennis and golf lessons. But the cosy cottage often wins out. You
might find yourself postponing everything just to soak in the scenery, breathe the clean air, and
enjoy the radiant energy. From your balcony, with a view of one of the lakes, the one encircling
the Island, you can spend hours with a loved one, listening to the crickets and the gentle sounds of the night — a perfect soundtrack for meditation and quiet connection.

Beyond a simple resting place, the cottage residences are designed for both relaxation and
inspiration. Features like the smart TV with streaming services, fair Wi-Fi, and a dedicated
reading/writing table make it an ideal retreat for creatives — writers, composers, or anyone in
need of a muse.

Adventure and serenity await

While the manicured golf course is a major attraction, there are plenty of other ways to stay
active. The Revivo Center is the hub for all sports, and although the gymnasium is undergoing a revamp, there are still many other activities to enjoy.

A pontoon boat ride on one of the 13 man-made lakes offers a unique perspective of the estate.

During the one-and-a-half-kilometer journey, you’ll see more lake-overlooking houses consistent with the resort’s architectural theme.

You might also spot wildlife like pied kingfishers soaring above the water or a lace monitor lizard basking on the far shore.

Fishing is a popular activity on the lakes. Fishing gear is supplied and if you catch a big one,
you can choose how you want it to be prepared for you — barbecue or pepper soup. If it is a
small one, sorry, it goes back in the lake.

The culinary experience at Lakowe Lakes is nothing short of excellent. From the bountiful room-service dinners of pounded yam and edikaikong soup to the diverse buffet breakfasts and satisfying lunches of party jollof rice, every meal is a delight. But what truly elevates the
experience is the staff. From the friendly security personnel to the attentive concierges and
skilled masseuses, everyone works with precision and warmth, making your stay truly
memorable.

One of the greatest luxuries is the feeling of having more to explore, leaving you with a perfect excuse to return. Already, the Emerald Invitational or ETTG is fast approaching. A luxe weekend pass from September 26 to 28. Another opportunity to explore and make sure Lakowe Lakes doesn’t remain a secret.