Timamoon Lodge

Surrounded by forest and tropical gardens where peacocks wander and the mist of the canyon drifts out and in – it's no wonder guests describe Timamoon as they would a dream. At the lodge's heart is a thatch-roofed restaurant where sumptuous breakfasts and candle-lit dinners are served. The cigar lounge is perfect for relaxing or enjoying a private dinner. The balcony peers over the canopy toward the Sabie River and a broad patio from which forest trails fan out.

The six fantastic chalets exhibit elements gathered by a lustful wanderer: panels from India, sunken Moroccan beds, in-laid sofas strewn with embroidered pillows, intricately carved four-poster beds, thatch-covered pergolas – each its own intoxicating cocktail. A pair of arched doors open to a private patio where a rim-flow pool and a shady daybed are standard. Inside, deep baths are a central feature and en-suite bathrooms are spacious and luxurious. Outside is a secret shower that's both sneaky and rather romantic...

If serenity is what you need, Timamoon offers numerous tempting ways to get you there: yoga, massage, and healing treatments, as well as the small but sublime menu at the stilted Balinese-style Over the Moon restaurant. Feeling adventurous? Horseriding, hot-air ballooning, river rafting, hiking to the river are on offer. And the nearest gate into the Kruger National Park is just 40 minutes away by road. Head there if you're looking for exceptional Big Five game viewing and dynamic landscapes.