Deals of the day
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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….
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve is just under 2.5 hours’ drive from Cape Town – in the malaria free Ceres Karoo.
The 10 000 hectare private game reserve offers luxurious Big 5 safaris for day visitors and overnight guests. All members of the Big 5 – the elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo and the elusive leopard – are represented at Inverdoorn.
The wildlife is thriving and during your safari you may come across herds of eland, gemsbok and zebra, or hippos wallowing in the dam. The rhinos are a distinct highlight at Inverdoorn.
The reserve is also home to a successful cheetah conservation project and has made a significant contribution to sustaining the biodiversity of the region.
In 2012 Inverdoorn became a luxury Big five safari destination, after the introduction of elephants onto the reserve, accompanying the lion, rhino, African buffalo and the elusive leopard. The cheetah rescue and rehabilitation centre was founded in 2001 and is home to a great number cheetah.
Together with a profusion of wildlife which includes zebras, hippos, giraffes, wildebeest and springbok, our guests are sure to have an unforgettable safari experience.
Day Visit Safaris
Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve is situated just under 2.5 hours’ drive from Cape Town – the Mother City – and offers day visitors an opportunity to experience a majestic Big 5 safari in a traditional game viewing vehicle.
Day trips are perfect for visitors that do not have the time to spend a night at this exceptional location. Guests will enjoy a welcome drink on arrival followed by a traditional 2 to 3-hour game drive hosted by a ranger.
Upon return to the main lodge guests are also treated to a scrumptious lunch and leisure time before departure. Guests may self-drive to the reserve or choose from the various transfer options that are available.
CHEETAH CONSERVATION
The cheetah is one of the great animals that Inverdoorn has rescued and returned to the region. The privilege of seeing a cheetah reach speeds of up to 120km/h will be unlike anything you have experienced before.
Our vision is to play a key role in global cheetah conservation to ensure the survival and sustainability of the species in the wild. The Inverdoorn Cheetah Conservation programme is based at the Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve – two and a half hours drive from Cape Town.
The project was founded in 2001 and have since become a core function within Inverdoorn’s Big 5 safari tourism operation – allowing guest interaction with the animals throughout the safari experience.
Inverdoorn is an upmarket Big 5 safari reserve in the Tankwa Karoo – near Sutherland. The lodge sits on a the vast expanse of 10 000 hectare flat Karoo veld.
The reserve has built a solid tourism reputation locally and internally and the original cheetah rehabilitation programme has become synonymous with its business model. The programme was originally positioned to rehabilitate and connect with cheetahs.
Since inception, the programme released seven cheetahs – two of which have been released onto the main Inverdoorn game reserve. Their independent living unfortunately made them kill considerable amounts of wildlife indiscriminately. These individuals died at Inverdoorn due to old age.
Since August 2018, The Aquila Collection has taken over the ownership of Inverdoorn Private game Reserve with very little background information on the programme, together with little facts of the success of these cheetahs.
Searl Derman, owner of The Aquila Collection – immediately announced an investigation into the programme – together with NO animal interaction policy updates, effective immediately.
Over the last 20 years, Aquila Private Game Reserve has won the most prestigious internationally acclaimed awards for its ethics – based on social upliftment, sustainable development and most importantly, conservation.
Just days after taking ownership of Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve, Searl Derman made a bold industry announcement that a strict “no touch” policy was implemented at Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve.
Faced with the concern that the existing cheetah programme might be seen as unethical with possible animal welfare and brand implications, it was decided to embark on a mission to get industry and conservation partners together to establish an ethics committee to look into the programme, reconsider the mission statement, and overlook future cheetah conservation efforts to ensure and establish an honest and honourable global conservation project.
REHABILITATION PREPARATION
Rehabilitation camps are set up in such a way to allow cheetahs that show interest in one another to interact in a more natural manner. This has subsequently led to 3 successful litters born here at Inverdoorn, a huge achievement for any reserve, as breeding in captivity is extremely difficult.
FAST DAYS & ENRICHMENT
The programme includes one fast day per week. These days are important as they mimic the natural hunting behaviour of the cheetah. The areas are also positioned for optimal natural enrichment which include high vantage points, trees for shade, exercise and scratching, water holes and other items such as skins, bones and hooves.
DEHUMANISATION FOR FINAL RELEASE
Stimuli such as view of prey, running and mating behaviours are crucial at the final stages when individuals are ready for release. Three months before their release, only full body diets are given, fast days are increased, and human contact restricted.
CHEETAH DIET
The cheetahs get a varied diet , containing for example full feathered birds, red meat, game meat & rabbit. The diet and exercise of cheetahs are extremely important and it’s something we greatly prioritise for their well being.
Guest Cheetah Experience
Since inception and up until the recent new ownership of Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve, the cheetah conservation programme monetized the cheetah experience. These activities included various forms of interaction and add-on sales to Big 5 safaris.
These add-on sale income streams have been removed from the Inverdoorn business model and will be replaced with activities that place the interest of the cheetah as priority.
The cheetah conservation programme – within its new format – will provide be an auxiliary service and project to Inverdoorn and present value-adds to guests on safari.
Staying true to its core focus to rehabilitate and release cheetahs into natural environments in order to prevent the species from extinction, these conservation focused guest activities could include:
- Viewing of the cheetah runs from elevated zero impact position
- Educational tour from a distance or from a game viewing vehicle
- Rehabilitation centre tour
- Research and tracking presentations
- Additional safari experience within a new release sight within Inverdoorn
- All activities will have NO touching or interaction
Wildlife, Accommodation and Conservation
The reserve is situated under 2.5 hours from Cape Town, in the vastness of the majestic Tankwa Karoo. With thick wooded Acacia river beds and magnificent golden mountains on the horizon, Inverdoorn provides the ultimate tranquil Big 5 safari experience.
Safaris on its 10 000 hectare wildlife reserve are offered on a day trip option or overnight stay with game drives presented by highly qualified rangers in traditional 4 x 4 vehicles.
Overnight safari accommodation is offered in the premier Ambassador Collection (suites or chalets) with small personal touches and a complimentary mini-bar, the Tankwa Chalets facing towards a magnificent succulent Karoo garden, or the variety of Lodge rooms.
While a delicious buffet lunch is served under the trees, a sumptuous plated three course dinner is either served in the intimate restaurant with roaring fires and an inviting bar, or next to the pool with boma fires and soft lanterns lighting up the dining area (weather permitting).
Overnight guests get to sleep in and enjoy a leisurely buffet breakfast in the tranquil surrounds of the Karoo before check-out at 10h00.
Inverdoorn is furthermore acclaimed for its Cheetah rehabilitation programme and guests have the opportunity to learn more about this renowned project when on safari – with a Cheetah Educational Tour.
At night time the Karoo stars feel tangible, while guests gather around the boma fires and pools to share their safari stories. Visitors are invited to experience a diversity of wildlife in the luxury of the Karoo vastness.
Self Drive Directions
Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve is situated just under 2.5 hours’ drive from Cape Town – in the Ceres Karoo. We suggest you take the N1 from Cape Town Towards Worcester via the Huguenot tunnel and turn off on the R43 (Ceres) just before Worcester.
Continue towards Ceres and drive through the town centre. Continue on this road (approximately 43km from Ceres town) you will continue onto a dirt road (R355 / R356) with road signage indicating Calvinia and Sutherland.
Continue on this dirt road for 5.7km and take the right turn-off (R356) to Sutherland. Drive another 7.4km until you reach the fork and take the left towards Sutherland. Continue straight on this road for 6km until you reach the Inverdoorn main gate.
Enroute to Inverdoorn
The trip to Inverdoorn is one of the most interesting and thrilling sightseeing routes within the Western Cape. 2.5 hour enroute to the lodge, guest can stop at various wine farms to sample some of the best wines within the region.
There are a variety of food stalls that travellers can enjoy and stock up on, such as cheeses and olives. For those not interested in self-drive option, the Cape Town office can arrange transfers to and from the city.
Free-Roaming Big Five Game Reserve
In 2012 Inverdoorn became a luxury Big five safari destination, after the introduction of elephants onto the reserve, accompanying the lion, rhino, African buffalo and the elusive leopard.
The Cheetah rescue and rehabilitation centre was founded in 2001 and is home to a great number cheetah. Together with a profusion of wildlife which includes zebras, hippos, giraffes, wildebeest and springbok, guests are sure to have an unforgettable safari experience.
Overnight Safaris
Seeing the warmth rise off a herd of buffalo, silhouetted in the glow of a bright Karoo sunrise, or a stealthy cheetah enjoying an early-evening run, is but a small part of the safari experience you can expect from an overnight stay at Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve.
Overnight safari accommodation is offered in the premier Ambassador Collection (suites or chalets) with small personal touches and a complimentary mini-bar, Tankwa Chalets facing towards a magnificent succulent Karoo garden, or the variety of Lodge rooms.
While a delicious buffet lunch is served under the trees, a sumptuous plated three-course dinner is either served in the intimate restaurant with roaring fires and an inviting bar or next to the pool with boma fires and soft lanterns lighting up the dining area.
Overnight guests get to sleep in and enjoy a leisurely buffet breakfast in the tranquil surrounds of the Tankwa Karoo before check-out at 10h00.
