Brookdale Estate

The malaria free Tswalu Reserve, owned by the Oppenheimer family, consists of over 100,000 hectares of the ‘green’ Kalahari grasslands home to eighty mammal species and 340 varieties of bird. Furthermore, the reserve is not further divided up into concessions or reserves and the only accommodation is the Motse Camp and Tarkuni House, which only allow for a maximum of thirty guests at one time in the entire of Tswalu. If you are staying for three nights or more you’ll also get a complimentary private vehicle, guide and tracker to make this your very own private Kalahari. The motto is, if you see another Range Rover on your game drives, complain. And whilst you really couldn’t get any further from a package holiday, the accommodation at Tswalu truly does have it all ‘wrapped up’ as far as a five-star safari lodge goes, with more luxury, authenticity, exclusivity and conscientiousness than any other in Africa. Having won awards for both their spa and conservation work, you just have to see the efforts they make to look after the wildlife and support local communities to know the lengths they go to look after you.

Located in the western sector of the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve and bordering the Kruger National Park, is Leopard Hills. Spectacularly situated atop a rocky outcrop, this luxurious lodge offers magnificent views over the bush and an active waterhole on the plains below. The property boasts eight beautifully decorated and entirely luxurious glass-fronted suites. Complete with sundecks and rock plunge pools, the suites enjoy amazing African bushveld views. When you’re not out spotting the exciting game on your drives and walks, watch the animals from the pool and main deck with a pair of binoculars or the spotting scope. This tranquil spot is the perfect place to enjoy a sundowner or cool down with a crisp glass of wine as you take in the sights and sounds of the African bush. The elegant dining room offers further views alongside decadent meals, while a cosy lounge and massage sala provide even more sumptuous spots to relax. The library is a peaceful spot and guests are welcome to browse through the large selection of literature and African journals.

In homage to the glamorous and opulent colonial era that most associate with the safari, Royal Malewane modestly and practically recreates this traditional, authentic and very special African experience. Situated in the Hoedspruit private reserve of 13,000 hectares incorporated into the Kruger National Park, wildlife is the Big Five and the size of the camp means your game drives are very personal. Intimate and secluded finery pretty much sums up this luxury lodge of only eight suites (including two Royal Suites) which are all wondrously spacious and open plan yet never compromise on your privacy. All are decorated in the sumptuous style of the early 20th century; dark woods, mahogany furniture, Victorian rolltop baths, 4-poster beds, travelling chests, fireplaces and Persian rugs. Each has its own rim-flow pool, wooden decks and gazebos and the Royal Suites enjoy a private lounge and dining room not to mention a complimentary butler, chef and massages. All the rooms are linked by risen walkways to the main camp. This elevated position of the lodge also means you need only look out your window or look up from your plate to see the sights of the bush and animals passing by. And there’s also a fantastic Spa and walled swimming pool that is reminiscent of a Moroccan rhiad. For a family or group of friends looking for the finest in luxury lodgings and privacy, Royal Malewane’s 12-person Africa House located just two minutes from the main lodge is at the height of secluded refinement and stellar personal service, and available to be hired exclusively. The house is bedecked with art and antiques from all over the world and decorated sumptuously with good use of vibrant colours. There is a central courtyard, fountain, veranda with infinity pool, private chef, butler, housekeeper and your game drives are all with your very own ranger, tracker and vehicles bespoke to you. The dining and service is both very detailed and exceptional here at the Royal Malewane, all in all creating a magical and most lavish safari experience.

The most contemporary luxury property in the wine region, Delaire sits on a privileged vantage point, perched on the hillside along the magnificent Helshoogte mountain range between Stellenbosch and Franschhoeck. There are 16 individual lodgings, each very private, decorated in elegant neutral tones and modern art. Each boasts a separate lounge and bedroom as well as a large deck and private infinity pool. At the centre of the property sits the large communal area, with a large pool, Jacuzzi and deck outdoors (from which one can enjoy spectacular views) as well as a peaceful interior decorated with a fantastic modern art collection. There is also an in-house cinema that screens documentaries and two restaurants, where the service is exemplary.