Fugitives' Drift Guest House

Tucked into a cluster of trees, the guesthouse has been drastically renovated, yet retains traces of the intimate homestead it once was, from the sweeping veranda to the fascinating memorabilia. The outdoors communal area is the best place to be between tours, with its open-sided thatched dining room (satisfaction guaranteed) and firepit ringed with camp chairs. The open-plan lounge has cosy nooks and a glowing hearth, and clear views of Isandlwana in the distance.

Six spacious, individually designed cottages are fitted with quality furnishings, historical details, generous double (or twin) beds, and an en-suite bathroom with a tub and walk-in shower. From private verandas, the views of the plains towards the Buffalo River Gorge are grand. Around the guesthouse is a pleasant garden with green lawns and mature trees – sit on your porch and birdwatch, or enjoy a whisky or two.

The property and battlefields sit on a 2200-hectare Natural Heritage Site, and the guides here (some of South Africa's finest) bring everything to life through provocative and precise storytelling. You'll wander the grave-pocked fields and gaze across the now-peaceful plains, picturing the bloody battle during which 22,000 Zulu warriors overwhelmed a British column. Take a break from the action by hiking to see the plains game, horse-back riding or mountain biking. The natural world is calm and quite stunning.