Segera Retreat

The central lodge exists in a beautifully converted colonial-era thatch and stone farmstead, The Paddock House. The structure is rambling, both rustic and elegant, and home to an enormous airy lounge with high rafters and several seating areas, an 'explorers' lounge' (perfect for a pre-dinner drink) and stables that have been adapted to hold the lodge's art collection - oh, and an unconventional bar. Double doors open out to the romantic verandah and swimming pool area, where breakfast is typically served, with sweeping views over the plains, Mount Kenya in the distance. Other facilities include a large convention room, more art displays, a well-equipped gym and the spa.

You'll find six luxury double-story villas, each with commanding views over the surrounding bush. Rooms are uniquely decorated with original artworks, comfortable one-of-a-kind furnishings - stylish but generally done in natural tones. Thatched roofs, wooden floors and large windows help keep everything in harmony with the surrounds. Bedrooms are located on the second floor, ensuring your orientation is always outward, from the moment you wake. The wooden decks are outfitted with comfortable loungers and a sunken Jacuzzi. Relax in the indoor lounge or on the shady outdoor swing bed - perfect for an afternoon nap or a sleep out under the stars. One of the Luxury Villas is specially designed for families and features a double and a twin room. The perfectly positioned Villa Segera and the graceful Segera House afford even greater levels of privacy and luxury. All villas have ensuite bathrooms, large indoor and outdoor bathtubs and oodles of room.

This is truly intended to be a retreat so each day is planned as much or as little as you like. There are the more traditional activities, from day and night game drives and guided walks to local village tours and horse-backed excursions. Then there are less typical offerings: a full-day camel safari, helicopter flips and a flight in the famous yellow biplane from the Hollywood film, ‘Out of Africa’, based on Karen Blixen's passionate tale set in Kenya - yes, this is the actual plane (retrofitted for modern flight, of course) but nonetheless an authentic artifact conjuring a bygone era.