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Few countries can rival South Africa for variety, where extraordinary wildlife, acclaimed wine estates, spectacular scenery and vibrant cities come together with remarkable ease.

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Why South Africa

South Africa is a country of remarkable contrasts, where world-class cities, celebrated wine regions, dramatic coastlines and extraordinary wildlife come together within a single destination. Few places offer such variety, allowing travellers to move effortlessly between safari lodges, vineyard estates, mountain landscapes and some of the most beautiful coastal scenery on the continent.

Cape Town remains one of the world's most spectacular urban settings, framed by mountains, ocean and a coastline that stretches towards the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route beyond. Elsewhere, rugged wilderness, historic towns and vibrant cultural influences reveal a country shaped by both its natural beauty and its complex, fascinating history.

Wildlife experiences rank among the finest anywhere in Africa, with private reserves and national parks offering unforgettable encounters with the continent's most iconic species. Across South Africa, luxury safari lodges, boutique hotels, vineyard retreats and coastal hideaways provide exceptional opportunities to experience a destination that continues to reward travellers with its diversity, energy and sense of adventure.

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Curated Journeys

Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.

Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.

From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.

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Featured

Stays you will love

Last Word Franschhoek
Winelands, South Africa

Last Word Franschhoek

The Last Word Franschhoek, an exclusive five-star residence in the heart of Franschhoek village, exudes historic charm and refined elegance. Just steps from South Africa's gourmet capital, it offers access to award-winning restaurants and boutique shops. Beautifully restored in the Cape Huguenot tradition, the air-conditioned rooms blend classic and contemporary furnishings, featuring luxurious bathrooms, satellite LCD televisions with DVD players, iPod docking stations, and work desks, ensuring sophisticated comfort. Each space reflects sumptuous home comforts, creating an intimate and elegant retreat amidst the vibrant village atmosphere. A buffet breakfast is served on the covered veranda overlooking the solar-heated swimming pool and wooden deck, framed by stunning Franschhoek Mountain views. Guests can relax with a cool drink from the bar, unwind on sun loungers, or enjoy bespoke spa treatments and picnic baskets for leisurely afternoons, all tailored to enhance the serene experience. The hotel's prime location, a minute's walk from character-filled galleries and dining, invites exploration of Franschhoek's culinary and cultural riches. With complimentary secured parking and an airport shuttle to Cape Town International Airport, 45 minutes away, and Stellenbosch just 20 minutes by car, The Last Word Franschhoek delivers a seamless blend of historic allure and modern luxury in the Cape Winelands.

From £290 per night

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Garonga Safari Co
Kruger National Park, South Africa

Garonga Safari Co

Garonga Safari Co., an exquisite sanctuary in the Greater Makalali Private Nature Reserve, delivers a soul-enriching luxury safari experience. Set in prime Big 5 territory, it offers an intimate connection with South Africa's vibrant wilderness. Garonga Safari Camp features six exclusive en-suite tented suites, blending canvas canopies, rustic-textured walls, and raised wooden decks overlooking a serene dry riverbed, perfect for romantic escapes. Little Garonga, a self-contained retreat, offers three thatched, air-conditioned suites with private platform decks and hammocks, surrounding a central lounge, swimming pool, and braai area. MCH Private Tented Camp, perched on a kopje with panoramic views of the Makalali Reserve and Drakensberg Mountains, provides four air-conditioned tents with sumptuous bathtubs, indoor and outdoor showers, well-stocked bars, and private decks for an authentic yet refined bush getaway. Expert-guided game drives and walking safaris immerse guests in close encounters with the Big 5, endangered cheetah and wild dog, and diverse birdlife, while the Sleep Out Deck offers a magical night under a starlit African sky. The Massage Sala, Bush Bath, and Yoga Deck provide serene spaces for mindful relaxation, complemented by an outdoor pool, shared lounge, and terrace. Dining is a delight, with excellent South African wines and varied cuisine served in intimate private settings or the festive Bush Boma, showcasing the region's natural beauty. Each accommodation includes private bathrooms with showers, complimentary toiletries, hairdryers, and slippers, ensuring refined comfort. Breakfast options range from buffet to continental or full English/Irish, catering to diverse tastes. With complimentary private parking and a paid shuttle service, the lodge is conveniently located 76 km from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, offering seamless access to this unforgettable safari haven in the heart of the Greater Makalali Reserve.

From £680 per night

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Batavia Boutique Hotel
Winelands, South Africa

Batavia Boutique Hotel

Batavia Boutique Hotel, an award-winning gem in Stellenbosch's historic heart, offers luxurious comfort and intimate hospitality. Steps from Dorp Street, it's perfect for exploring the vibrant village on foot. The classical 19th-century guesthouse, honoured as Best Boutique Hotel from 2005 to 2007 and inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2008 and 2009 by the AA Accommodation Awards, features elegantly spacious rooms blending antique charm with contemporary finesse. Each air-conditioned room is adorned with beautiful sofas, oversized chairs, refined tables, and flat-screen satellite televisions, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming retreat. Guests are treated to a sumptuous breakfast in the elegant dining room, with late afternoon tea, cakes, and drinks served in-room or on the charming patio beside the sparkling outdoor swimming pool. The hotel's tailored service ensures a bespoke experience, whether relaxing by the pool or strolling to nearby landmarks like the Stellenbosch Museum and Moederkerk, both within easy walking distance. The surrounding Stellenbosch wine route, South Africa's oldest and most celebrated, invites guests to indulge in world-class wine tasting, while activities such as hot air balloon trips, helicopter rides, fishing, and mountain biking offer adventure and exploration. Located just 24 km from Cape Town International Airport, Batavia Boutique Hotel provides complimentary private parking, ensuring a seamless and luxurious escape in the heart of Stellenbosch.

From £130 per night

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The Robertson Small Hotel
Winelands, South Africa

The Robertson Small Hotel

The Robertson Small Hotel, Robertson's only five-star retreat, offers superlative service amidst lush gardens and two serene pool areas. Built in 1909 as a National Monument, it exudes timeless elegance in the heart of the Cape Winelands. The ten distinct rooms, including three Victorian-style Manor House suites with high embossed ceilings and large veranda-facing windows, feature elegant modern furnishings, flat-screen satellite televisions, DVD players, and private bathrooms with bathrobes and slippers. Collaborations with designers like Studio Ashby and Alexis Barrell create a sophisticated ambiance, with some suites offering spacious seating areas for refined relaxation. The Small Restaurant serves exquisite seasonal dishes crafted from local produce, paired with choice valley wines, available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner by appointment, except for hotel guests' breakfast. Dining is offered in the historic Manor House or on the scenic patio overlooking verdant gardens, complemented by a stylish bar. Each guest receives The Small Guide, a beautifully curated exploration of Robertson's treasures. Guests can enjoy a wellness room for rejuvenation, relax by the pools, or explore nearby golf courses and hiking trails. Located 700 metres from Robertson Mall, 900 metres from House of Golden Kaan and Robertson Art Gallery, The Robertson Small Hotel, with complimentary parking, delivers an intimate fusion of historic charm and luxurious indulgence.

From £135 per night

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Oceana Beach & Wildlife Reserve
Garden Route, South Africa

Oceana Beach & Wildlife Reserve

Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve, a luxurious retreat in Port Alfred, embodies the vision of owner Rip Miller, offering a sanctuary for rejuvenation amidst exotic natural beauty. Overlooking the Indian Ocean and vibrant bush, it blends coastal serenity with wildlife allure. Each elegantly appointed accommodation, adorned with African-themed decor, features a private deck with captivating ocean and bush views, a spacious lounge, and a private bathroom with a spa bath, ensuring refined comfort. The reserve's intimate setting invites guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil expanse of its pristine surroundings, fostering a deep connection to the landscape. The central bar, warmed by a fireplace, serves expertly crafted cocktails with scenic vistas, while the restaurant offers diverse dining options in a sophisticated setting. Guests can relax in the inviting lounge with plush sofas, browse the library's collection of books and DVDs, or explore the curio shop's array of jewellery, souvenirs, and books. The Africa-shaped swimming pool and large deck provide serene spaces to unwind. Activities abound, from beach walks and surfing to game drives, fishing, and billiards, with the private beach area enhancing coastal exploration. A shuttle service to Port Alfred Airport, just 10 minutes away, ensures seamless access, making Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve a perfect fusion of luxurious pampering and South Africa's breathtaking natural wonders.

From £335 per night

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Hamiltons Tented Camp
Kruger National Park, South Africa

Hamiltons Tented Camp

Hamiltons Tented Camp, named after Colonel Stephenson Hamilton, evokes the elegance of early 20th-century safari adventures in Kruger National Park. This luxurious retreat blends colonial charm with the untamed allure of the African bush. Six magnificent canvas tents, adorned with teak floorboards, dreamy mosquito nets, and private verandas overlooking the seasonal Ngwenyeni Dam, are connected to the main lodge by raised timber walkways beneath ancient Jackalberry trees. Each air-conditioned suite features a romantic slipper bath, outdoor shower, and intercom service, offering uncompromising elegance and breathtaking views of the surrounding wildlife. The camp's open tented lounge and attentive butler service complement a personalised dining experience, showcasing a wide array of fresh, daily-prepared cuisine that celebrates local produce. Guests can relax by the refreshing outdoor pool with sunbeds offering vistas of the African bush, or indulge in soothing spa treatments delivered in the privacy of their suite, enhancing the serene ambiance. Two daily safaris in open 4x4 vehicles immerse guests in the Big Five terrain, with birdwatching and guided bush walks available by prior arrangement, revealing the park's rich biodiversity. Located in a malaria area with applicable gate entry fees per person per day, Hamiltons Tented Camp is 63 km from Skukuza Airport, delivering a sophisticated blend of historic grace and wild beauty.

From £910 per night

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Mont Rochelle
Winelands, South Africa

Mont Rochelle

Mont Rochelle Hotel and Vineyard, Sir Richard Branson's exquisite retreat in Franschhoek, offers a luxurious haven amidst the Cape Winelands. Perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the Klein Dassenberg mountains and its 39-hectare private vineyard, it radiates serene elegance. The 26 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, alongside the exclusive four-bedroom Manor House, feature sophisticated interiors with the option for twin beds upon request, blending modern comfort with the timeless allure of the Winelands. Each space is designed for refined relaxation, complemented by the estate's warm hospitality and access to a vibrant working vineyard where daily wine tastings, available for guests and visitors, showcase Mont Rochelle's acclaimed wines. Two exceptional restaurants elevate the experience: Miko, the main dining venue, serves gourmet cuisine perfect for special occasions, while the Country Kitchen, adjacent to the winery, offers light lunches and takeaway picnics in a relaxed setting. Breakfast, included in all room rates, is savoured at Miko, with both restaurants welcoming non-residents by reservation. The stylish bar provides light bites and a sun-soaked terrace for leisurely enjoyment. Guests can unwind at the heated outdoor swimming pool with panoramic mountain vistas, indulge in eco-friendly Africology spa treatments using natural plant extracts in two dedicated rooms, or relax in the sauna, hot tub, or Hammam. A well-equipped gym supports wellness, while nearby activities like horse riding, hiking, and fishing enrich exploration. Just an hour from Cape Town, Mont Rochelle seamlessly blends luxurious sophistication with the enchanting beauty of Franschhoek's Winelands.

From £320 per night

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Aha Makalali Private Game Lodge
Kruger National Park, South Africa

Aha Makalali Private Game Lodge

Makalali Private Game Lodge, a luxurious four-star retreat in Limpopo's 26,000-hectare private game reserve, offers an immersive safari experience along the banks of the Makhutswi River. Its serene setting provides frequent wildlife sightings near the camps. The lodge comprises three intimate camps, each with six exquisitely appointed suites, featuring en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, timber viewing decks overlooking the river, and private plunge pools in the River Lodge camps. The Main Lodge offers superior rooms, blending rustic elegance with modern comforts, ensuring a refined connection to the vibrant bushveld teeming with the Big Five, cheetah, wild dog, and over 250 recorded bird species. All-inclusive dining showcases fresh, local cuisine, served on private decks for intimate moments or in the inviting dining lounge, where guests can relax by a cosy fireplace. The lodge's warm hospitality enhances the experience, with twice-daily game drives included in the rates, offering thrilling encounters with the reserve's diverse mammals and plains game, guided by expert rangers. Guests can explore further through hot air balloon rides or visits to a nearby cheetah breeding project, immersing themselves in the region's rich biodiversity. With transfers available from Hoedspruit Airport and the reserve's gates closing at 18:00, Makalali Private Game Lodge, located west of Kruger Park, delivers a seamless blend of sophisticated luxury and the untamed allure of Limpopo's wilderness.

From £420 per night

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Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa

Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg

Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, perched atop Johannesburg's rocky Witwatersrand, offers a luxurious escape reminiscent of a chic hillside village. Its nine sunlit villas are interwoven with elegant courtyards, tranquil fountains, and verdant gardens. The sophisticated rooms, designed for refined comfort, feature air-conditioning, spacious seating areas, flat-screen satellite televisions, minibars, and iPod docks, with private balconies showcasing endless treetop vistas. Guests can ascend via the glass elevator to Flames, where seasonally inspired South African and international cuisine delights, or visit The Cellar Door for an intimate food and wine pairing experience in a refined dining setting. The nature-inspired wellness centre provides a serene haven with a sauna, steam room, and a curated selection of massages and beauty treatments, capturing the region's tranquil essence. The hotel's expansive lush gardens and state-of-the-art fitness centre offer additional spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation, while the inviting ambiance evokes a sense of peaceful seclusion despite the urban setting. Just 1 km from the Johannesburg Zoo, 2 km from Parkview Golf Club, 11 km from Nelson Mandela Square, and 33 km from O.R. Tambo International Airport, Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff seamlessly blends five-star luxury with the vibrant charm of Johannesburg, creating an unforgettable retreat for discerning travellers.

From £345 per night

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Shamwari Long Lee Manor
Eastern Cape Safari, South Africa

Shamwari Long Lee Manor

Long Lee Manor, a luxurious Edwardian-styled retreat in the malaria-free Shamwari Private Game Reserve, exudes timeless elegance amidst manicured gardens. Overlooking the vast African plains, it offers an intimate Big Five safari experience. The spacious rooms and suites, adorned with refined decor, feature air-conditioning, ceiling fans, satellite televisions, and tea-and-coffee facilities, ensuring sophisticated comfort. Each space blends classic charm with modern amenities, providing a serene haven that harmonises with the vibrant wildlife and sweeping vistas of the reserve. All-inclusive dining, encompassing breakfast, lunch, and dinner, is served in the elegant dining area or outdoors, showcasing exquisite cuisine paired with fine beverages. Morning and afternoon game drives in open vehicles, guided by expert rangers, include sunrise coffee and tea or sunset sundowner drinks, delivering thrilling encounters with the Big Five and the reserve's diverse fauna. For relaxation, the rim-flow pool overlooks a bustling waterhole, while three treatment rooms and a well-equipped fitness centre offer rejuvenation. A gift shop provides curated souvenirs. Located 75 km from Port Elizabeth and 45 km from Grahamstown, with shuttle services and a private landing strip available, Long Lee Manor seamlessly blends opulent heritage with the untamed allure of Shamwari's wilderness.

From £940 per night

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Stays you will love

Last Word Long Beach
Garden Route, South Africa

Last Word Long Beach

The Last Word Long Beach, a romantic five-star hideaway in the charming lobster-fishing village of Kommetjie, offers an exquisite coastal retreat. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, it provides a serene alternative to Cape Town's bustle. The six ultra-luxurious suites, each with stylishly comfortable interiors, feature plush beds, flat-screen televisions, spacious seating areas, and floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto private patios with breathtaking ocean and garden views. Every suite is spectacularly appointed, ensuring refined elegance and a deep connection to the sea's ever-changing beauty. Guests can relax by the inviting outdoor swimming pool or on the sun deck, perfect for seasonal whale watching, while the tranquil ambiance enhances the romantic escape. The hotel's attentive staff can arrange horse riding trips or windsurfing sessions, capitalising on Kommetjie's status as one of South Africa's premier surfing hotspots, offering adventure amidst the coastal splendour. With complimentary parking and a prime location just 31 km from Cape Town International Airport, The Last Word Long Beach seamlessly blends sophisticated luxury with the tranquil allure of Kommetjie's seaside village, creating an unforgettable haven for discerning travellers seeking romance and serenity.

From £230 per night

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Twelve Apostles & Spa Hotel
Cape Town, South Africa

Twelve Apostles & Spa Hotel

Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, a luxurious five-star retreat dramatically set above the Atlantic Ocean, is framed by the majestic Twelve Apostles and Table Mountain. Its flora and fynbos-lined trails offer breathtaking exploration near Cape Town's vibrant heart. The elegantly appointed rooms, adorned in soothing hues, feature modern amenities and serene ocean or mountain views, ensuring refined comfort for discerning travellers. Each guest is greeted with a complimentary drink, enhancing the warm hospitality that defines this coastal haven, perfectly positioned for both relaxation and city adventures. The Azure Restaurant, with its panoramic outdoor setting, serves exquisite indigenous and international cuisine, crafted from the finest organic ingredients and home-grown wild vegetation, particularly in its unique desserts. Guests can unwind at the award-winning spa, featuring tranquil rock pools, or explore the nearby Table Mountain National Park, immersing themselves in the region's natural splendour. Complimentary transfers to Camps Bay and the V&A Waterfront ensure seamless access to Cape Town's attractions, while free private parking adds convenience. Nestled between mountains and ocean, Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa delivers a seamless blend of sophisticated luxury and the captivating allure of Cape Town's iconic landscapes.

From £265 per night

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Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel
Cape Town, South Africa

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, an iconic five-star oasis in Cape Town's bustling heart, offers refined luxury amidst a lush garden estate. Just steps from Company Gardens, it exudes timeless elegance and exceptional service. The hotel's distinct accommodation wings, each with unique character, feature private gardens, marble bathrooms, and bespoke furniture, creating exclusive retreats of sophisticated comfort. Guests can savour the elegance of their rooms with in-room dining, ensuring a serene escape after exploring the vibrant city. The renowned afternoon tea, served on the picturesque terrace, complements the tranquil ambiance, while two sparkling pools and a tennis court enhance relaxation. Extensive wellness facilities provide a rejuvenating haven, and the multilingual concierge team expertly arranges visits to iconic attractions like Table Mountain and Robben Island, tailoring experiences to guest desires. Located in the heart of Cape Town, Mount Nelson seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern indulgence, offering a tranquil sanctuary and effortless access to the city's cultural and natural highlights, ensuring a truly memorable stay.

From £555 per night

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Kapama River Lodge
Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kapama River Lodge

Kapama River Lodge, nestled within the expansive 15,000-hectare Kapama Private Game Reserve, offers a luxurious safari escape in the Greater Kruger area. Its stylish accommodations blend modern elegance with the untamed beauty of the African bush. The lodge's 64 spacious, air-conditioned suites, each with a full en-suite bathroom featuring a bath and shower, are adorned with complimentary amenities including a minibar and coffee machine. Every suite boasts a private terrace with uninterrupted views of the leafy-green Big 5 reserve, framed by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, ensuring a serene and sophisticated retreat. The central guest areas feature a large rim-flow swimming pool with sun umbrellas and recliners, perfect for leisurely afternoons, and a long L-shaped relaxation lounge and bar under a double-volume thatch, creating an open yet intimate atmosphere with a grand double-sided fireplace. The award-winning Spa & Wellness Centre offers rejuvenating treatments, while two daily game drives and a guided bush walk, included in the rates, provide thrilling encounters with the Big 5 and diverse wildlife. All-inclusive dining showcases exquisite cuisine paired with selected local and premium beverages, served in elegant settings that enhance the safari experience. Guests are required to complete an indemnity form via an online check-in link or upon arrival. Located in the heart of Kapama Game Reserve, Kapama River Lodge delivers a seamless fusion of luxurious comfort and immersive wilderness adventure.

From £1025 per night

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Leeu House
Winelands, South Africa

Leeu House

Leeu House, an intimate five-star oasis in the heart of Franschhoek village, offers luxurious serenity amidst secluded gardens. Its prime location invites exploration of the Cape Winelands' vibrant attractions. The 12 elegantly appointed rooms and one suite, adorned in soothing neutral tones, feature air-conditioning, espresso machines, minibars, flat-screen televisions, and electronic safes. Luxurious en-suite bathrooms, with marble floors, underfloor heating, double vanity tops, and heated towel rails, ensure refined comfort, blending contemporary sophistication with the tranquil charm of the surrounding valley. The Conservatory restaurant delights with innovative fusion cuisine, crafted from organic, fresh produce, served in an elegant setting that enhances the dining experience. Guests can unwind by the 15-metre outdoor swimming pool or relax in the meticulously landscaped gardens, soaking in the serene ambiance of this private retreat. With a 24-hour front desk and airport shuttles available, Leeu House ensures seamless hospitality. Just 350 metres from the Huguenot Memorial Museum and within walking distance of Franschhoek's art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques, with Cape Town International Airport an hour's drive away, this exquisite haven combines luxurious comfort with the vibrant allure of the Winelands.

From £445 per night

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Walkersons Hotel & Spa
Garden Route, South Africa

Walkersons Hotel & Spa

Walkersons Hotel & Spa, a luxurious five-star retreat in Dullstroom, offers serene elegance amidst the Mpumalanga Highlands' breathtaking landscapes. Set on an 800-hectare private estate, it provides captivating mountain views and warm hospitality. The beautifully appointed guest rooms, each with a comfortable seating area, flat-screen satellite television, electric kettle, and private bathroom with a shower, exude refined comfort, with some featuring fully equipped kitchens with ovens and fridges. The hotel's Scottish manor-inspired design blends contemporary sophistication with the tranquil allure of the surrounding trout-rich dams and rolling hills. The Flying Scotsman restaurant serves exquisite fine-country cuisine, showcasing local produce, while The Terrace offers relaxed all-day dining with garden vistas, complemented by a stylish bar. Guests can unwind at the serene spa with curated treatments, relax by the outdoor pool, or maintain their routine in the well-equipped fitness centre, all enveloped by meticulously landscaped gardens and terraces. Popular for hiking, fishing, and bike hire, the area offers abundant outdoor pursuits, with the Dullstroom Bird of Prey & Rehabilitation Centre 17 km away and Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve 18 km away. Located 16 km from Dullstroom Railway Station and 158 km from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, with complimentary private parking and room service, Walkersons Hotel & Spa delivers a seamless blend of luxurious indulgence and the natural splendour of Mpumalanga.

From £250 per night

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