Royal Malewane

Listed in Andrew Harper’s exclusive ‘Hideaway Resort’ (a connoisseur’s worldwide guide to peaceful and unspoiled places) and named Best Safari Lodge by Tatler in 2006, the intimate Royal Malewane relives the colonial days of Africa with sophisticated elegance and style. Situated within the Thornybush Private Game Reserve, neighbouring Kruger National Park, the suitably sumptuous Royal Malewane offers an up close and very personal game experience.

Each of the six private suites sits in harmony with its natural surroundings. Rich wooden decking, open air thatched gazebos and private plunge pools blend discreetly with the acacia thorn and lantern-bush trees. Joined only by wooden walkways, Royal Malewane’s luxurious suites have redefined the concept of solitude. Ralph Lauren linens adorn the four poster beds whilst antique armoires and vast indoor-outdoor bathrooms complete the 'bush chic' theme. Stylish beyond belief and adored by Elton John and Bono, Royal Malewane's two decadent hideaways – the Royal Suite (picture 1) and the Malewane Suite – are known to be the largest in Africa, offering over 210 square metres in space. Each suite, which can accommodate up to four guests in each of the two ensuite bedrooms, also boasts a fully equipped kitchen, elegant and expansive living area, a vast wooden-decked verandah, a thatched gazebo (perfect for a massage with a view!) and a goodsized pool. You will enjoy the services of your very own butler, chef, masseuse, guide and tracker – the pinnacle of refinement and decadence!

A splendid thatched dining room and central openair lounge area combine stylish colonial furnishings, African tribal artefacts and exquisite Persian carpets with the breathtaking interior décor skills of Mother Nature.

Celebrated South African chef, John Jackson, delivers a legendary culinary experience – his creative fusion of pan-African and Cape Malay-inspired dishes has won him wide acclaim.

...And if the cuisine is not enough to whet your appetite, the safari experience certainly will! The game viewing is specifically tailored to guests’ individual wishes – you can either ride in the open landrover or go out on foot accompanied by Royal Malewane’s expert ranger and master tracker.

After your invigorating game drive, nothing could be more soothing than a pampering session in the new Royal Malewane Spa. Possibly the most sophisticated Spa in the bush, this wildly luxurious haven is hidden among thorn trees and approached along wooden walkways. Two semi-open salas with floor mattresses, silk cushions and hanging lamps flank an ultra-chic lap pool, and are adjacent to a Roman bath area with showers and jacuzzi. The treatment rooms, offering both indoor and outdoor massage tables, open onto the bush, while in its own separate area, a secluded open-air sala has been ideally positioned for two! The African 'safari' just doesn't get much better than this!

PRICES Prices for 3 nights in a Luxury Suite from £1488 per person twin share including all meals, game activities and local beverages. The scheduled flight to Hoedspruit/Eastgate airport or air charter to Royal Malewane is additional. Flights from the UK from £589 (including £120 tax) with South African Airways