Singita Lembobo Lodge, Luxury Suites in the heart of African Wildlife

Wowsers was my first emotion when entering the main entrance of this over-the-top lodge in South Africa's Singita Kruger National Park. I'd stayed at the first Singita property years ago and was not quite expecting the spectacle of heights, open vistas, unique and raw natural design elements and a modern, slick and sparkling pool beckoning us on that very hot day. All 15 en-suites at the Singita Lembobo Lodge are fit for a lioness—with inside and outside showers and a game viewing deck with day bed.

 

Wooden-planked walks strewn with lanterns link all of the suites with the main eating and pool area; these are not to be walked solo at night, so a trained member of staff accompanies each guest under the starlit black sky to his suite in the sky. My suite on stilts was at the edge of quite a drop! Made outdoor showering exhilarating to say the least. The design of Lebombo is truly unique encompassing so stylishly and not contrived, a ‘back to basics simplicity' without compromising at all on comfort. Traditional African materials are combined with slick and cool modern furnishings which creates a fusion of nature and luxury I've not seen elsewhere to date. Gym, health spa, wine cellar, traditional boma and swimming pool; open plan lounge and bar and library with computer facilities—what's missing? After dinner, you can sleep under the stars on your own private terrace. When we returned to the suite night two, the bath was drawn, with candles lit and sultry tunes playing on the in-room iPod, flower and stone drawings on the floor towels. Pampered and spoiled to say the least! The food is as good as it needs to be; staff is creative with meal settings so don't be surprised to find a lavish breakfast on the banks of a hippo-filled river after a morning game drive! Do have dinner at the neighboring romantic tiny Sweni Lodge—totally different style and ambience, nice to be more private than Lebombo dinner affords. NB a few things please: The boutique (while this is not something you'll typically see me writing about) is not to be missed; the game viewing was good but did feel a bit commercial with so many vehicles and children under 10 can only be accommodated if the resort is hired out on an exclusive basis.  You need 3 nights and 3 full days here to really enjoy the suite, all the property has to offer and the game drives. The website and photos don't do this property justice. Get there! Fab family (with teens) trip.

Room rates from £644 per person