The Kruger, South Africa

Royal Malewane

Name: Royal Malewane
Address: The Kruger

Authentic boutique safari lodge amid Thornybush Private Game Reserve

Outdoor seating area with a long infinity edge pool surrounded by lanterns, and with two sun loungers facing the pool and forest beyond

Where exclusivity, impeccable service and classic safari charm unite

Enveloped by wild nature within Thornybush Private Game Reserve on the fringe of Kruger National Park, Royal Malewane boasts a firm reputation for creating some of the most wildlife-rich experiences. Discover the best of all worlds, glimpsing the Big Five and lesser-sighted species like leopards and wild dogs. Given their expert guiding team, heralded as the most qualified in Africa, your game drives and bush walks will aspire to be thoroughly immersive and satisfyingly educational.

Royal Malewane’s accommodations, cocooned between lush bush, unfold across distinctly themed lodges. Notice sophisticated design, some bold hues and handpicked decoration, plus that classic safari spirit. Oversized suites, linked by raised walkways, feature elegant interiors that spill onto outdoor decks and plunge pools. While they feel entirely private, the collection of safari villas delivers even more seclusion coupled with the exclusive services of dedicated staff, such as a private chef.

Dining is a personal affair. The focus is on tasteful, creative dishes concocted from local produce suited to your preferences. Alternate between numerous outdoor locations at mealtimes, though they all capture a glance of a neighbouring waterhole and its exciting visitors. Drawing on nature in an extensive list of revitalising treatments, the highly acclaimed spa facility also strives to immerse you in intimate journeys.

Other activities to get involved in are the lodge’s conservation projects, such as monitoring the nest sites of endangered Southern ground-hornbill birds and observing a counter-poaching dog unit in training. Conservation and sustainability are at the core of Royal Malewane’s ethos, whereby initiatives also revolve around supporting local crèches and ways to reduce their environmental impact.

Highlights

Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness of Thornybush Private Game Reserve

Venture on action-packed game drives led by one of Africa's most accomplished guiding teams

Retreat to uniquely decorated suites and villas oozing an authentic safari style

Delight in personalised meals outdoors while watching the local wildlife

Rejuvenate with first-class spa treatments using restorative natural ingredients

Try your hand at fascinating conservation experiences, like observing training sessions for a counter-poaching dog unit

A bathroom painted in sunny yellow with a free standing blue and white tub, two sinks, and a glass-sided shower

An outdoor seating area with wooden decking and sun loungers looking at a view of African wilderness, with two impalas grazing on long grass

Outdoor pool with two sun loungers outside of a hotel

Bedroom in a tropical hotel, with four poster bed decorated with net covering, a white sofa and small coffee table laid out with books

Covered veranda with comfortable sofas and chairs under a wooden canopy

Aerial view of hotel with infinity edge pools and green foliage

Outdoor seating area with long couch covered in pink cushions. There are also low chairs around a fire pit

A small circular table and two wooden chairs set for tea on a wooden deck overlooking a river

Aerial shot of food on a gren plate with a copper knife and fork set beside it. The food is arranged in a ring shape, and is a salad made with egg, thinly sliced radish and herbs

Two women practising yoga on a wooden deck by a pool at sunrise

A pride of lionesses standing on a road in front of a jeep full of people in the African bush

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Places to combine Royal Malewane with

The Western Cape Mountains

Bushmans Kloof Reserve

Located in the Cederberg Mountains, Bushmans Kloof Reserve is a sanctuary of serene beauty in South Africa.

The Garden Route

Emily Moon River Lodge

Looking out over the winding Bitou river wetlands that gently trail their way to the wild coastal shores of Plettenburg Bay and the Tsitsikamma mountains that drop into the ocean; there really is no better picture than the one you get at Emily Moon River Lodge.

What’s more every single room on the property enjoys these views, because no one should be denied that.

The nine rooms (including one honeymoon suite) are spread out on the steep ledges of this river’s southern banks and decorated with a pleasing mix of the comfortably modern and simple furniture embellished with African art and some more Oriental-style pieces. A luxurious mix of fabrics and modern fittings add to their informality and sophisticated warmth.

The activities on offer are well-suited to the adventure or sports enthusiast, although relaxing by the pool to a spot of golf is quite acceptable too and its restaurant has been given the ultimate approval by locals who frequently dine there.

The Winelands

La Residence Vineyard Suites

Set amidst picturesque vineyards and orchards in the foothills of the Franschhoek mountains, the Vineyard Suites provide an idyllic hideaway within the heart of one of the world’s best wine growing regions. The unspoilt surroundings and the undisturbed tranquility create a picture perfect backdrop.

Each of the 5 eclectic and luxurious suites have an exclusive feel and their own room configuration. Sleeping up to 20 people and ranging from two to four bedrooms, they’re a sociable alternative and perfect for families. Your own miniature palace, the villas are filled with flamboyant and unique decor comprised of rich, colourful fabrics and oriental rugs. Over-sized furniture, high ceilings and charming en-suites heighten the elegance.

Renowned as South Africa’s food and drink capital, Franschhoek hosts some of the best boutique wineries and gourmet restaurants while maintaining a laid-back French cafe culture. Stepping out of your suite into the breathtaking surroundings, you will be spoilt for choice with the multitude of activities on offer.

South Africa

21 Nettleton

At the top of Cape Town’s affluent Clifton suburb, with incredible panoramic views around the bay, of Table Mountain’s Twelve Apostles and out to sea, 21 Nettleton is one of the most exclusive addresses in South Africa.

The large house has just six suites, accommodating up to 12 people. Beautifully decorated with wonderful artwork and furnishings, suites come with either mountain or ocean views. The larger suites, such as the positively sprawling 250 square metre Presidential Suite, come with views of both.

Surrounding the house area wonderful gardens with a swimming pool and access to the abutting nature reserve and its hiking trials up Lion’s Head. There is also easy access down to Clifton’s famous beaches. For those looking to relax and unwind while in the city, the hotel can organise personalised spa treatments on site.