Some of our favourite places

Part of our 'job' is to inspect destinations on a regular basis... you know, to ensure that they're up to the standard that we expect for our clients! Yes - its a tough job!  And through our own travels to these many places, we come across plenty, really fantastic lodges, guesthouses, hotels and adventures etc throughout southern Africa that we just love! But for sake of keeping things simple, we've listed just a few here to give you an idea of the type of destination we select for clients...

CITY SPLENDOUR

Les Cascades Collection is a stunning portfolio of 3 properties in Cape Town. Two of these are situated in Bantry Bay with breath-taking views over the Atlantic Ocean. Even though there is so much to do and see in Cape Town, we wouldn't recommend you spend anything less than 3 - 4 nights at Les Cascades because you'll want to enjoy the property too... leave enough time to really soak up the stunning views, the beautiful rooms and very friendly staff.

Why we love it

• Absolutely gorgeous!
• Genuine, friendly owners and staff
• 5-star luxury at affordable prices 
• Well-located for easy access to all major tourist attractions (most within 5 minutes drive)

 COUNTRY RETREAT

Mardouw Country Estate is the kind of place you want to spend a good couple of days.  Set on a working olive farm, just over 2 hours drive from Cape Town, it's an easy escape from the city or a great break to a Garden Route trip. It's tranquil, yet also offers activities such as a golf driving range, mountain biking, hiking and fishing.  Nearby there are fabulous wine estates, quaint villages and beautiful scenic drives. 

Why we love it

• A place to escape and unwind in peace
• Not too far from Cape Town, so an easy weekend getaway
• Beautiful surroundings

REMOTE LUXURY

If you're ever planning a trip to see one of the 7 Wonders of the World, i.e the Victoria Falls, then we do strongly recommend you base yourselves at Sindabezi Island. It's a small, private island in the middle of the Zambezi River - about 30 minutes upstream from the Vic Falls. Having recently been refurbished, the island boasts 5 gorgeous cottages - all open fronted to the river, so you can lie in bed and just enjoy the fabulous views, birdlife and privacy.  Again, spend nothing less than 3 nights if you can, so that you can do all the touring of the Vic Falls and excursions on offer, and then just enjoy Sindabezi without too much rush!

Why we love it

• Close to the Victoria Falls, but far enough to get away from the hustle-and-bustle
• Very private and secluded
• Fabulous for nature-lovers

 

PURE SELF-INDULGENCE

Perhaps you've never considered yourself as someone who likes Spa's - or maybe you do? Whatever the case, Karkloof Wellness and Wildlife Retreat will blow you away (as it did us)!

The philosophy here is about timeless relaxation... take off your watches, switch off your mobiles and let the day just amble on... Wake up - whenever... roll out of the sumptuous bed... stroll down for breakfast at whatever time... meander over to the Spa and select one of the many fabulous treatments... wallow in the heated Roman bath, or Floatation pool or even hop in and out of the Kneipp pools (hot and cold therapy pools)...  Whatever you need to unwind, you'll find it here!

Why we love it

• This is sheer indulgence... it's all about you!
• The ideal place to retreat to from a hectic schedule or manic life
• Plenty activities to choose from, or plenty of nothing but relaxing to do!

SENSATIONAL SAFARI

The reason why most people come to southern Africa? To go on safari of course! One of our favourites and trusted lodges is the fabulous Tintswalo Safari Lodge on the private Manyaleti Private Reserve concession (adjacent and open to the Greater Kruger National Park). The lodge is exquisite. Luxuriously so. The rangers are brilliant and very knowledgeable. The setting is breath-takingly beautiful and you don't need to venture far from your bed to enjoy the smells and sounds of the bushveld.

Why we love it

• (don't you just want to be the woman in this picture?)
• Huge, spacious, private suites (only 6 of them)
• Excellent staff and game-rangers
• Fantastic game-viewing

If you'd like any more detail on any of these or other of our favourite places, please feel free to drop us an email to info@africanpathfinder.com