OVERVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS: Private sanctuary located close to town and easily accessible to touring - whether it's to the Cape of Good Hope, Table Mountain, or just a dinner out. The property is not open to the public, which gives an exclusivity and private feel to guests.
- Rooms: Only 11 rooms, 2 suites, and 2 three bedroom villas - no two rooms are alike, all unique
- Food: More art that tastes good
- Service: Top Tier
- In the know: Exclusive for guests at the hotel, very private, no strangers
- Overall Impression: Relaxing environment away from Cape Town, but easily accessible
- Style: Intimate house with a modern flare and eclectic art
- Location: 10 minutes away from bustling Cape Town
- Amenities Highlights: Love the art gallery and art all around the house
Kruger National Park, SA
Hotel: Singita Lebombo
When: April 2017
FEATURED ATELIER AMENITY:
One 30 minute spa treatment, per person
OVERVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS: Optimal game viewing. Never have many vehicles in one area. Many activities if you decide not to game view one afternoon. At night I heard lions marking their territory from the comfort of my bed!
- Food: 5 Star
- Service: 5 Star
- Technology: Put it away
- Family or Pet Friendly: Only for children 10 years or older
- In the know: The jeeps hold 6 people, if you want a private one, you can rent one at an additional cost. Take anti-malaria procautions.
- Overall Impression: Ultimate luxury but definitely know you're away from it all
- Style: LA meets African bush
- Location: Kruger National Park - take small plane
- Rooms: 15 Suites - they have some about a 3-5 minute walk from the main area, which are my favorite
- Amenities Highlights: They give you a great blanket if you're cold on a game drive
Thornybush Private
Game Reserve, SA
Hotel: Royal Malawane
When: April 2017
FEATURED ATELIER AMENITY:
15% off all massages at the Spa
OVERVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS: The food here is really some of the best I've had. Royal Malawane is not only a Safari experience, it is also a must go to destination for foodies. People who are not interested in Safari, can easily come here to decompress.
- Service: Top Notch
- Technology: Leave it behind
- Family or Pet Friendly: Africa House is perfect for families or just a couples group
- In the know: Go visit Moholoholo, a wildlife rehab center close by
- Overall Impression: Wow
- Style: African chic taken to a whole new level
- Rooms: 6 suites, 2 royal suites (with 2 bedrooms each) and the one and only Africa House (6 bedrooms)
- Food: There is still a recipe I'm trying to find - not only great for the game, but great to go just for the food
Madikwe Game Reserve, SA
Hotel: Mateya Safari Lodge
When: April 2017
FEATURED ATELIER AMENITY:
Bottle of Wine
OVERVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS: Small, unique, no malaria medication needed, great for buyouts. Massive bathroom.
- Food: Great food with more impressive wine cellar
- Service: Warm & welcoming
- In the know: From some of the rooms with plunge pools you can see wildlife! Did I mention you don't need malaria pills?
- Note: Please consult with your doctor about medication needed.
- Overall Impression: Intimate bush experience
- Style: Relaxed comfort
- Location: Madikwe Game Reserve
- Rooms: Only 5 suites - books quickly
- Family or Pet Friendly: Family friendly - especially for kids since you do not need the malaria pills. And great for families that buy out.
Franschhoek, SA
Hotel: La Residence
When: April 2013
FEATURED ATELIER AMENITY:
15% off all massages at the Spa
OVERVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS: Great place for relaxing or wine touring through the area. The grounds are outstanding.
- Service: Wonderful
- Family or Pet Friendly: Family friendly, especially the villas
- In the know: Spend a few days here and take advantage of the activities in the area as well as utilizing all what the property has to offer
- Overall Impression: Grand impression but intimate
- Style: Baroque and individual.
- Location: Wine Country - easy drive from Cape Town
- Rooms: Only 11 rooms + villas - individually appointed
- Food: Like all Royal Portfolio properties - amazing