Deals of the day
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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….
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…
Sarili is an oasis of exclusive luxury overlooking the grassy plains of Africa and the Bushman’s River, a sumptuous five-bedroomed lodge from where you and your family and friends can watch Africa’s iconic Big Five.
Perched on the banks of the Bushman’s River, Sarili Private Lodge provides the perfect exclusive bush experience, with magnificent African wilderness at your doorstep.
The modern interiors coupled with exclusive amenities, mean you’re never too far from superior comfort in the heart of the Eastern Cape.
Shamwari offers an array of experiences you can enjoy such as Game Drives, Birding, Walking Safaris, Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Photographic Safaris and more.
Shamwari is home to five of South Africa’s seven biomes, making it a destination unlike any other. It wasn’t always an award-winning piece of protected land or a pioneer in environmental education. This is our story.
SHAMWARI BACK TEN
In 1990, a small 1,200-hectare farm became available and was duly purchased. Shortly after, drought and financial difficulties led to a number of neighbouring farmers placing their land on the open market and further land was acquired to a total of 7,000 hectares.
Since then Shamwari has been actively restoring both the wildlife and flora, eradicating alien vegetation and striving to create an atmosphere where nature can flourish. Over the course of the next 25 years, Shamwari Private Game Reserve expanded to what it is today.
SHAMWARI TODAY
Because of our conservation efforts, Shamwari has officially been declared a Protected Environment. Today Shamwari comprises of 7 luxury lodges and 1 explorer camp, two different education and rehabilitation facilities and employs over 325 local staff.
The land and buildings have been restored to its rightful state with the stunning Eastern Cape fauna and flora of yesteryear and the reserve flourishes with wildlife.
VISION
A concession of owners decided to return the land to its once pristine condition by paying respect to Mother Nature and Her many gifts.
This vision included the preservation of the history and fauna and flora of the bountiful Eastern Cape.
COMMITMENT
A committed team shared the same passion, ethos and vision, and from this the viability of sustaining and growing this dream developed into the award-winning Shamwari Private Game Reserve of today.
PASSION
A commercial aspect was added, and in 1992 Shamwari Private Game Reserve was born with a small, passionate staff of seven, who had an immense commitment, intellectual capital and determination to make conservation in tourism profitable and sustainable.
CONSERVATION
A systematic and scientific rehabilitation programme was launched, hand-in-hand with carefully considered game restocking procedures. Today, the reserve has a dedicated Wildlife Department with a team of veterinarians, ecologists and environmentalists.
EASTERN CAPE
The Eastern Cape is blessed with natural and cultural diversity. It’s especially renowned for the evergreen vegetation of the Tsitsikamma Forest at the end of the Garden Route. It is also home to the Baviaanskloof Wilderness, the slopes of the Drakensberg Mountains and part of the Great Karoo.
Another Eastern Cape point of interest is its awe-inspiring coastline, making it the ideal place for water sport enthusiasts and beach bodies alike. Surfers can enjoy the super tubes of Jeffrey’s Bay and Cape St Francis, where a host of international surfing competitions are held.
In addition, anglers are sure to be kept busy with the multitude of fish to catch in this region. Coastal winds can reach impressive speeds, making for exciting kite surfing conditions, as well as sailing, windsurfing, and other wind sports.
Best of all, there are a myriad of facilities here to ensure that every member of your family has the experience of a lifetime on South African soil.
YEAR-ROUND DESTINATION
The Eastern Cape climate boasts a blend of Mediterranean and sub-tropical weather.
The east experiences higher levels of humidity and rainfall compared to the west with its dry weather conditions. During off-season (winter), temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C and during summer season, you can enjoy temperatures between 16°C and 36°C.
SAFARI GAME DRIVES
Game drives take place in the tranquil moods of sunrise and sunset. Survey the areas, witness the birds of prey or spot one of the Big 5 from the comfort and safety of our open game viewing vehicles.
Our rangers and guides are passionate about wildlife and knowledgeable in their respective fields of expertise. Expect to take away new insights, an appreciation for Africa, and an unforgettable experience.
DRIVE THROUGH THE WILD
Our game viewing drives are available for morning and afternoon trips, as this is when the animals are most active.
Our vehicles are open and comfortable, and give you a panoramic view of the area. If you have a particular area of interest, you’re welcome to inform your guide who will include it along the journey, if possible.
TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
In addition to spectacular game drives, Shamwari Private Game Reserve also offers professionally guided bush walks. Our rangers share their intimate knowledge of the reserve and their own expert insights to make each natural encounter a special event.
Here, you can gain a true perspective of the fauna and flora indigenous to the region. Your guide can also point out animal tracks, dung, birds and can educate you on the area and its rich history.
You may see a herd of wild buffalo, but the tiny ox peckers on their backs are the real conservation success. If you want a true walking safari experience, you can stay at Explorer Camp where the focus is on bush walks rather than game drives.
SOUTH AFRICA’s EIGHT MAJOR BIOMES
Shamwari Private Game Reserve is home to five of South Africa’s eight major biomes, providing rich vegetation types that are suitable for an array of animal and plant species to thrive in.
VEGETATION TYPES
These five vastly different biomes bring about a wide variety of animal, bird and plant life for guests to catch sight of at Shamwari Private Game Reserve.
THICKET BIOME
The dominant vegetation type in this area is the thicket biome and more specifically known as the Albany Thicket. This biome sustains and bolsters a healthy population of animal species including kudu, elephant, black rhino, monkey and bushbuck.
Additionally, the Addo flightless dung beetle, unique to the Eastern Cape, is another conservation success story. A recent discovery was made of the Albany Adder which is a puffadder snake endemic to this area. Spekboom and Spike Thorn trees are also specific to this biome.
BIRDING
This malaria-free area of the Eastern Cape is home to a host of beautiful birds, from tiny feathered friends to majestic birds of prey. Ornithologists and bird watchers are sure to be treated with an array of bird life.
FLOCKS IN ABUNDANCE
Shamwari Private Game Reserve has several bodies of water located throughout the reserve, which means it’s the ideal opportunity to catch sight of the teaming birdlife.
Our rangers are knowledgeable on the various bird species residing in the reserve and will happily share their insights with guests. At the moment there are more than 275 different bird species at Shamwari for guests to spot.
BIRDS OF THE REGION
There are an abundance of special birds that we are privileged to see at Shamwari. Specialist guides, who know the habits and habitats of these birds, will do their utmost to get you a sighting of these birds in their natural environment.
EXPERIENCES TO TREASURE FOR A LIFETIME
Visits to the Born Free Foundation Big Cat Rescue Centre are focused on promoting the conservation of species and the protection of habitat whilst maintaining a humane and compassionate approach to the welfare of animals.
While kids under the age of 4 years old are not permitted on game drives, there are a host of activities for them to enjoy. We offer a children’s coordinator at Riverdene, and for an additional fee, we have a childminding service available, leaving your kids in safe hands.
Children staying at Shamwari Private Game Reserve have the chance to go wild at Riverdene’s Adventure Centre. In addition, there are swimming pools and many more activities to keep the active bodies happy.
SAFARI ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
Upon arrival at Riverdene Family Lodge, parents can register their kids for the Kids on Safari Adventure Centre. Kids will have access to both indoor and outdoor activities throughout their stay. Child minding is available at an additional cost for children younger than 4 years as they are too young to join game drives.
LEARN WHILE ON HOLIDAY
As a leader in conservation, we know how important it is to educate the future caretakers of the earth. That’s why we’ve established several awareness centres that aim to shine a light on the plight of nature and the environment.
BUSH WALKS
In addition to spectacular game drives, Shamwari Private Game Reserve also offers professionally guided bush walks. Our rangers share their intimate knowledge of the reserve and their own expert insights to make each natural encounter a special event.
Here, you can gain a true perspective of the fauna and flora indigenous to the region. Your guide can also point out animal tracks, dung, birds and can educate you on the area and its rich history.
You may see a herd of wild buffalo, but the tiny ox peckers on their backs are the real conservation success. If you want a true walking safari experience, you can stay at Explorer Camp where the focus is on bush walks rather than game drives.
THE SPA
Escape to Shamwari Private Game Reserve and enjoy a safari spa experience in the unspoilt surrounds of the Eastern Cape.
Our relaxation retreats will leave you feeling revitalised and rejuvenated, with treatments that are proven to be beneficial for the mind, body and soul. We have a host of spa treatments available to you, such as massages, facials as well as hand and foot rituals.
AN EXCLUSIVE SPA EXPERIENCE BY BABOR
Indulge in an escape where you will be journeying to a distant land, releasing the stresses of daily life while replenishing your body and soul.
You will feel renewed as you experience a full body exfoliation, wrap and massage tailored to your mood. Feel at one with the earth as mother nature caresses your weary body, restoring health and wellness.
You will be pampered from head to toe giving you a radiant glow, breathing life into your rosy complexion after indulging in a customised facial, revitalising your skin! Indulge in a nourishing journey, replenishing your senses!
WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTRE
At Shamwari Private Game Reserve we’re passionate about the conservation of nature and the animals within the reserve.
One of our endeavours includes the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, which helps to rehabilitate and care for sick, injured, abandoned or orphaned animals under the care of our professional veterinary team.
Once these animals have been nursed back to health, they are released back into their natural habitat.
VISIT THE CENTRE
As part of your safari experience with us, you will have the opportunity to visit the centre and the animals in our care. Upon arrival at the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, you will be met by a member of this caring team who will show you the facilities and explain what it is that they do.
It’s not an interactive visit, but informative and educational experience, in order to give animals the best chance at a successful release. During the recovery phase, “patients” are kept in custom built camps. Provided there are animals in care, an opportunity to meet them should arise during your visit.
THE PLIGHT OF THE RHINO
In recent times, the African rhino population has suffered major devastation due to poaching, resulting in a declining population. The once great numbers of these animals have dwindled to the point where it’s a growing epidemic and the species is bordering on extinction.
THE GOAL IS THE WEALTH
The Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre at Shamwari is a registered facility and as such, animals in need come from all over the Eastern Cape and even further afield.
The primary goal is to ultimately return all the animals that are in our care back to the wild, or at least give them the best possible opportunity. To achieve this goal requires sensitive management and treatment is required by our vet, vet nurse and the team.
In recent times our team has specialised in raising orphaned rhinos from the poaching epidemic that has become too common an occurrence in Southern Africa.
Despite the horrific ordeals these young animals have endured, we have successfully raised and released several into safe environments where they are now helping to grow rhino populations for the future.
All species, big or small, are welcomed and embraced by our dedicated team who work tirelessly, day and night. Their reward is a weak orphan drinking for the first time, growing in strength and finally being returned to its natural environment.
BORN FREE BIG CAT SANCTUARIES
In partnership with actress, author and wildlife campaigner, Virginia McKenna’s Born Free Foundation, Shamwari Private Game Reserve designed the Animal Rescue and Education Centres to incorporate the sanctuary and educational facility.
Their goal is to create awareness of the horrific way in which wildlife is exploited in captivity around the world. The centres aim to draw attention to the plight of wild big cats, confined in impoverished, captive environments throughout the world.
