Best Hotels & Lodges

Perched on the tip of Leisure Isle - a connected peninsula that feels decidedly more island than mainland - this boutique hideaway gazes directly at those famous Heads standing sentry over Knysna Lagoon. It's the sort of spot where you can paddle a kayak to breakfast, then cycle home for sundowners, all whilst feeling rather smug about your location choice. The property occupies prime waterfront real estate where the Indian Ocean mingles with the lagoon, creating a rather dreamy backdrop for doing absolutely nothing at all. With just 15 rooms, it manages that clever trick of feeling intimate without being claustrophobic, and the multi-award-winning status (Africa's top luxury guesthouse, no less) suggests they're doing something right beyond just the postcard views.

Knysna Hollow Country Estate is set on a secluded 3-hectare country retreat just 5 minutes from the centre of Knysna, a quaint seaside town widely regarded as the jewel of the Garden Route. Knysna Hollow re-opened in October 2018 as a brand-new contemporary country estate offering stylish accommodation with warm personal service and authentic dining in our casual restaurant, Social Eatery. A standout amongst Knysna hotels, the 44 contemporary Garden Suites are situated in lush gardens and offer all modern amenities in a spacious and serene environment. The modern Cape Country Manor House is the focal point of the estate and houses a restaurant, bar, reception, sun deck and internet library - overlooking the gardens with two sparkling swimming pools.

Ubuyu, a Banyan Tree Escape, is an invitation to rewild your soul. An intimate safari retreat set in the untouched nature of Ruaha National Park. Here, expansive, artisan-crafted villas overlook the Great Ruaha River. Harmoniously woven into the open savannah, where animals roam freely in their natural habitat.

Guided by your dedicated Escape Host, experience thoughtfully curated adventures, sustainable communal dining, and ancient healing rituals. Unfiltered, untamed and freeing, this is nature as intended.

Gora Hanaougi invites you to spend a luxurious time enjoying the changing seasons of Hakone in your room or at the hot springs. The inside of the hotel is a comfortable space with the slight scent of trees. The tatami floor allows you to relax barefoot after taking a bath or having a meal. Gora Hanaougi is a 3-minute walk from Sounzan Station, the terminal point of the Hakone Tozan Cable Car. It is also convenient for sightseeing in Hakone.

This is the closest inn to Hakone's top tourist spot, "Susuki no Hara." All rooms have an open-air bath, so you can enjoy the hot springs whenever and as much as you like without any worries.