Le Petit Village Hotel

​The hotel's sprawling grounds allow for plenty of green space between the structures, and lots of dense shrubs as a buffer against the urban clamour. The Patisserie opens to a wide, shaded veranda, ideal for enjoying a leisurely breakfast or cappuccino. A scattering of thatched, open-sided shelters provide lovely pools of shade, and the patio-fringed pool offers plenty of lounge chairs for lazing. Indoors, several tucked-away corners are ideal for settling back with a book or a glass of wine.

Rooms are smart and refined, with classy decor and African-inspired art. All are self-contained with those mod cons we expect (TV, wi-fi, aircon, minibar). The suites have one queen or two large single beds. Junior Suites are larger, with king-sized beds, a spacious walk-in shower and bear-clawed bathtub, and access to a private veranda. Executive Suites step up the space further, with an additional kitchen and lounge. The Executive Apartments sleep four guests in two rooms – ideal for families.

Uganda has emerged from its cruel dictatorship years to become a popular wilderness destination, with diverse terrain, patches of pristine jungle, and one of the most sought-after activities of all – gorilla trekking. Although extremely exclusive (i.e. pricy), treks offer you the chance to come a discreet face to face with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to half the world's population of mountain gorillas, plus other primates like colobus monkey and chimpanzee. Enchantment guaranteed!