Deals of the day
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is situated in the northern part of the world-famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. Elephant Plains endeavours to offer our guests the opportunity for excellent Big 5 game viewing, combined with luxurious accommodation and sumptuous cuisine.
The lodge caters for the discerning traveller, with a variety of accommodation options, varying from Rondavels and Luxury Suites to the Manyeleti Honeymoon Suite. Elephant Plains Game Lodge is world-renowned for excellent Big 5 game viewing and guests can enjoy two game drives and a bush walk per day.
The property has been in the family for the past 57 years and Elephant Plains Game Lodge opened its doors in 1998. The lodge is owner run and accommodates a maximum of 24 guests.
This guarantees personal service and attention to detail. With the help of our remarkable team of staff members, our unpretentious style ensures that guests regrettably leave, after creating a lifetime of memories!
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is situated on the dry Manyeleti riverbed, overlooking an open area and watering hole. The main lodge houses the reception, dining room, bar, lounge & wine cellar, as well as a small library and curio shop.
Facilities include two swimming pools, a gym and games room. The lodge caters for the discerning traveller, offering different types of accommodation to cater for a variety of needs. Guests are able to choose between Rondavels, Luxury Suites and The Manyeleti, our romantic honeymoon suite.
Mealtimes are sumptuous affairs, with a combination of international cuisine and South African specialities. Breakfast and lunch are enjoyed in the dining room, or on the pool deck, overlooking the open area. Dinner is served around a log fire in the boma, whilst enjoying the mystical nocturnal sounds under the African sky.
THE HISTORY
Elephant Plains Game Lodge is situated in the northern part of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The Sabi Sand Game Reserve was set up in the 1950’s, by a group of private landowners who dropped the fences between their properties in order to create a larger area for the animals to roam freely.
The reserve is named after its two main rivers, the Sabi and Sand Rivers, which both flow to the south of Elephant Plains Game Lodge. In 1993 the fences between the Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sand Game Reserve were dropped, to allow the animals an even bigger traversing area. Currently the Kruger National Park encompasses a protected area of around 2.2 million hectares.
Koot Steyn, his son, Dries Steyn (Etienne’s grandfather) and a third partner, Jannie Wilkens bought the farm Arathusa, from Mr. Tresford in 1962. At that time the only buildings on the property were the old Main Building and two Rondavels (2 and 3). More Rondavels (1, 4 & 5) were added and the camp was used as a winter holiday destination for family & friends.
The infamous Harry Kirkman became warden of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in 1958 and frequently visited the farm. After captivating friends with his incredible wildlife stories around the campfire, he would always sleep on the porch of Rondavel 2, despite a ready-made bed indoors.
Koot Steyn passed on and the northern section of the farm was sold to Mr Jackel. It has since been re-sold and is currently operated as Simbambili Game Lodge. Jannie Wilkens’s southern section was sold to Mr Abrahams. The farm is now owned by his daughters, Shirley and Joan.
This is the private camp (Arathusa Private) one can see from the original pool deck. Thereafter, Dries Steyn divided his property in two – Elephant Plains Game Lodge and Arathusa Safari Lodge.
The Swart family decided to share their piece of paradise with visitors and on the 1st of October 1998 Elephant Plains Game Lodge opened its doors to the public. We initially only accommodated 10 guests in the Rondavels of the original family holiday camp. With Etienne’s vision, the construction of the new Main Lodge and Luxury Suites commenced during 2003.
THE PHILOSOPHY
Because our environment supports our livelihood, Elephant Plains Game Lodge realises the need to ensure that our presence here is as unobtrusive as possible. It is important that we look after our entrusted piece of paradise, in order to ensure that future generations will also be able to enjoy it.
Our main objectives are the sustainability of a healthy, balanced habitat, through certain conservation processes, as well as making a contribution to the socio-economic development of our surrounding communities. We believe that there is a fine balance between commercialization and the toll taken on the wildlife and its habitats.
We have a conscientious land management program, which endeavours to maintain a naturally diverse ecosystem and to minimize the impact of man’s activities on the environment. In conjunction with the Sabi Sand Game Reserve’s ecological department, we have put certain conservation measures in place.
These include projects like the regeneration of erosion sites, the removal of alien plant species, habitat management through carefully planned block burning and special off-roading precautions undertaken during game drives.
We believe that our biggest contribution to conservation is through education. Our guests are ambassadors for conservation in South Africa. If, during their stay with us, we can expand their knowledge and experiences, then we have achieved our goal.
Amazing wildlife sightings, combined with the lessons learned about conservation, will remain with them and will be passed onto others through their reminiscences. Our staff members are also educated in the sustainability of resources. Most of our staff members are from the local villages outside the Gowrie Gate.
They are also our ambassadors, as conservation principles obtained through education are also shared with their families and different communities, spreading the word far beyond the lodge itself. We use local suppliers and services wherever possible, as this provides local businesses with a steady income.
At Elephant Plains Game Lodge, we work together as a team, combining different types of knowledge and expertise to create a product that is beneficial to everyone. This multicultural community provides the opportunity to learn from one another, as we strive to continually raise the standards and services we offer.
THE MANYELETI HONEYMOON SUITE
The Manyeleti honeymoon suite provides honeymooners, or guests that are just romantic at heart, with elegance, privacy and a stunning view. This glass fronted suite has all the regular luxuries and also boasts a private splash pool and daybed, ideal for a mid-morning nap.
LUXURY SUITES
These exclusive, open-plan suites each have a lounge, double bedroom, en-suite bathroom and a private viewing deck that offers spectacular views over the riverbed and open area. All suites feature air conditioning, overhead fans, fireplaces, mosquito nets, electronic safes, as well as mini bars and tea & coffee facilities.
RONDAVELS
The five rondavels are set in the beautifully landscaped garden of the original family holiday camp and one can still feel the old bushveld charm upon entering.
The rondavels have sundecks, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, overhead fans, mini bars, tea/coffee facilities, mosquito nets and electronic safes. While elegant and luxurious, the rondavels offer affordable game lodge accommodation.
AFRICAN CUISINE
Mealtimes are sumptuous affairs, with a combination of international cuisine and South African specialities. Breakfast and lunch are enjoyed in the dining room or on the pool deck, overlooking the open area. Dinner is served around a log fire in the boma, whilst enjoying the mystical nocturnal sounds under the African sky.
GAME DRIVES
Bordering the Kruger National Park, with no fences dividing them, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is world-renowned for excellent game viewing. At Elephant Plains Game Lodge, you can be sure of game drives and bush walks that will live up to the Africa of your imagination!
Not only will you have an excellent chance of close encounters with the Big 5, but you might even be spoiled with the more elusive wild dog and cheetah sightings. As the lodge is situated on a dry riverbed, the surrounding habitat is favourable for leopards, as these creatures prefer the riverine and denser bush areas.
Over time and due to a carefully planned habituation process, some of the animals have become habituated to the game drive vehicles. This enables our guests to view the animals undisturbed, as they go about their daily routine. Keen birdwatchers would also be mesmerized with over 300 bird species to choose from.
There are two game drives per day, during which your experienced game ranger and local Shangaan tracker will share their extensive knowledge and love for the African bush with you. Each drive lasts about three hours with an intermediate break.
During the morning game drive, you will be spoiled with coffee and homemade rusks and in the afternoon your ranger will find a suitable spot, where you can enjoy the stunning views, whilst enjoying your sundowner drink.
After sundowners your tracker will use the spotlight to find nocturnal animals, before returning to the lodge for dinner. Your ranger will discuss the various game drive regulations before you leave camp for your first drive.
During game drive you will note that the rangers sometimes drive off of the road and into the bush. This is one of the many game drive aspects that enable us to bring you closer to the action! We do, however, work in accordance to guidelines set out by the Sabi Sand Game Reserve’s ecologists.
We only allow off-roading in certain areas and with special precautions. The rangers do not drive over sensitive areas, will only drive over small trees if they are encroachment species and if necessary, they will do brush packing afterwards, to limit the impact on the environment.
BUSH WALKS
During bush walk you will have the opportunity to take a closer look at animal tracks, birds, different types of grasses and trees, as well as any other smaller details of the bush that might fascinate you. This is also the ideal time for birdwatchers to get a closer look at their favourite bird species.
The daily bush walk takes place after breakfast and is a leisurely walk of about an hour long. Please take note that you will be accompanied by either your ranger, or tracker. They will share the various bushwalk rules and regulations before leaving camp.
Please adhere to these at all times. Guests are not allowed to leave the camp area and walk on their own. Make sure that you wear comfortable walking shoes and have protection from the sun.
THE BIG 5
The Big 5 is a phrase originally used by hunters to refer to the 5 most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt in Africa. Today this phrase is associated with exiting opportunity to see 5 of the most magnificent animals on the planet. They are the African elephant, the lion, the buffalo, the leopard and the rhinoceros.
