If you’re looking for a getaway that is far from run-of-the-mill – a place that will really inspire and enchant you, stay at one of the utopian places recommended here by Exclusive Getaways. Treasured locations well off the beaten track; nature uncontaminated and at its best; trendy, must-stay lodges; sensory indulgences and activities to remember for many lifetimes are what define the places we class as Paradise Found.
BUSHMANSKLOOF WILDERNESS RESERVE AND RETREAT,
Cederberg, Western Cape
There’s no better place than Bushmans Kloof to experience the enchantment of the majestic Cederberg. Bushmans Kloof is a luxury retreat set amid open plains, clear waterfalls and ancient rock formations in the Cederberg Mountains. A supreme nature experience awaits, with wonderful outdoor activities and nurturing spa experiences. The malaria-free landscape is a safe haven for indigenous flora and fauna, and shelters precious rock art sites. Activities include guided nature drives, rock art viewing, hiking and biking, canoeing, swimming and wellness treatments. Enjoy extraordinary dining experiences and luxury living close to nature in a spectacular South African Natural Heritage Site 270 km from Cape Town. Mail us.
GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE,
Walker Bay, Western Cape
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a fabulous eco-reserve set above Walker Bay, less than two hours from Cape Town. Magnificently positioned between mountains, forest and sea, Grootbos is a supreme nature escape where environmentalists lead 4×4 drives, horse and hiking trails through forests and fynbos, coastal walks, seasonal whale-watching, and boat tours to view seals, white sharks and African Penguins. Luxurious accommodation is provided at Garden Lodge, set in a Milkwood forest above the coastline, and Forest Lodge which is accessed via a magical forest. Grootbos is a superb blend of fine lodgings, food of feast proportions and nature at her absolute best. Mail us.
KOSI FOREST LODGE,
Isimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Kosi Forest Lodge is secluded in a sand forest on the banks of a placid lake, and is the only private lodge in the Kosi Bay Nature Reserve. This wetland wilderness is a treasured part of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park. Enjoy canoe and boat trips in a magical waterworld, walks through pristine raffia forests, and day trips to breathtaking coastal beaches. Eight thatch and canvas cabins are set in a forest of fig and milkwood trees, and have romantic open-air bathrooms. There is limited electricity, candlelight creating a warm and romantic atmosphere reminiscent of wild Africa long ago. This is a place to rediscover nature in South Africa’s first World Heritage Site. Mail us.
THONGA BEACH LODGE,
Mabibi Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
Thonga Beach Lodge is a true hideaway. It’s a place of forests, beach sands and barefoot luxury, far away on KwaZulu-Natal’s Elephant Coast at little-known Mabibi Bay. Rest deeply, have a wilderness beach virtually to yourself, and perhaps even get to see the giant turtles that come to these shores between November and February each year to birth their young. An exclusive nature experience includes snorkeling on a protected reef; diving with launches in front of the lodge; swimming with whale sharks, dolphins and manta rays; kayaking on Lake Sibaya; and seasonal turtle experiences. Spa treatments are another irresistible option, in between idyllic beach pleasures. Thonga Beach Lodge forms part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage Site and is a dream come true for romantics, honeymooners and nature-worshippers. Mail us.
TIMAMOON,
Sabie Area, Mpumalanga
Exotic and seductive, Timamoon is hidden away high in the hills of Mpumalanga, in a breathtaking world of jungle-forests, valleys and supreme views. Large guest villas provide gorgeous seclusion and loads of luxury, integrating elements from North and East Africa’s most alluring places. Four-poster beds, stunning bath tubs, fireplaces and totally private pools granting idyllic views all add to Timamoon’s enchantment. Dine in a Bali-style restaurant, picnic near a waterfall, walk in a world of wonders, enjoy aromatic massage treatments, and explore the many famous attractions nearby. Mail us.
GARONGA SAFARI LODGE,
Hoedspruit Area, Limpopo
Garonga Safari Camp is a gorgeous tented eco-camp set in the greater Makalali wilderness, west of the Kruger National Park. This is just the spot for a really laid-back safari retreat, where you do as much or as little as you please. With the luxury of your own private deck – complete with hammock, you need go no further than this to soak up the calm of the wilderness and to enjoy watching whichever animal has a mind to meander past you. Your luxury en-suite tent has an indoor shower, and also has a private outdoor shower. What you can look forward to at Garonga are guided 4 x 4 safari drives, foot safaris, sleep-outs (at no extra charge), romantic bush-baths beneath the great African sky, and aromatherapy and reflexology treatments in a bush sala. Mail us.
Mail us to book memorable stays throughout South Africa, or call +27 21 797 7122.
