Amathunzi

For some it’s simply the peace that comes with nature, with nothing but birdsong to distract you. For others, the views: empty valleys studded gem-like with flowering succulents and grazing antelope, against a backdrop of undulating mountains. Vast blue skies that turn star-spangled when the sun dips behind these craggy peaks. But mostly it’s the luxury of privacy, with only a handful privileged enough to find themselves ensconced in accommodation that is spacious, gracious and welcoming, in a privately owned reserve less than two hours from Cape Town.

Amathunzi offers that wonderful combination: the exhilaration of being immersed in nature, and the sensual pleasure of relaxing into the luxuries that matter: well-sprung beds and soft linen; a deliciously cool pool; a shower with a view; a kitchen where someone else does the dishes. This is the real luxury of Amathunzi: with a maximum of 26 guests sharing the 3100 ha reserve, Amathunzi offers the kind of privacy and peace that is increasingly difficult to find – particularly within easy reach of a city. Choose from a choice of three privately situated accommodation options: The Lodge (5 chalets), which sleeps 10; The elegant Manor House, sleeping 12 and the rustic Cottage which sleeps a maximum of 4 people.

An expansive 3100ha private game reserve, Amathunzi is a treasure trove for plant lovers, comprising fynbos, renosterveld and succulent Karoo biomes. Antelope and zebra graze in the untrammeled space, while above raptors wheel and glide. The Amathunzi reserve can only be explored on foot or by bike, or we can arrange an evening game drive in the open-topped LandCruiser, and toast the setting sun from one of the reserve’s viewpoints.

No credit card facilities.