Singita Ebony Lodge, Cozy Luxury Cottages in a South African Game Reserve

I've not yet enjoyed this lodge but hope to on my next South Africa itinerary. I've heard such great things from my friend Tom Marchant, the founder of our travel partner Black Tomato, that I just had to tell you about it. Here's the scoop: Set over the stunning panorama of the Sabi Sands reserve, the twelve luxurious thatched suites of Singita Ebony are huge, with their own separate bedroom, bathroom, dressing and lobby areas, as well as two decks, one with heated private plunge pool and outdoor shower. They are each enclosed so that none can be seen from the other and the interiors nicely balance a colonial look with the premium luxury you would expect from Singita.

 

Nestle into your new home with cozy armchairs around an impressive double-sided fireplace, polished antique four poster oak beds, egyptian linen, African throws, antiques and beautiful Victorian clawfoot baths overlooking the plains. Olde world maps hang on the walls beside brightly colored textured fabrics, all giving an incredibly lived-in ambiance. Watch the game meander through the grassy riverbed below from your huge timber deck before heading out in your private landcruiser for a game drive rich with the big five. Ebony also offers fishing and mountain biking, so head out for some real outdoorsy adventure, or if you're more of a spa lover, the gorgeous health spa is right beside the gym. Dinner can be eaten outside at the African Boma, a traditional dining space surrounded by flames and reeds to the sound of drums, with wines selected from their extensive private wine cellar. Honeymooners will love the privacy of Ebony, as well as those looking for a change from some of the more contemporary lodges like Singita Lemboba where I stayed. This one's pricey, but worth every penny.

 

Rates from $958