Best Hotels & Lodges

Opened in 2015 following a loving restoration of an 18th-century building, this four-pearl boutique beauty from Spanish group H10 Hotels strikes that sweet spot between historic charm and modern polish. Designed by Spanish designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán, the interiors are a masterclass in contemporary Portuguese style – think blue-and-white azulejo tiles depicting historic scenes, whitewashed wooden ceilings, glossy parquet floors and creative lighting. With 89 elegant rooms, Restaurant Azul e Branco serving Mediterranean-Portuguese fusion, the intimate Equestre library bar, and the stunning Limão Rooftop Bar on the 10th floor with panoramic views over Lisbon and the Tagus Estuary, it's sophisticated city living done properly. The location on leafy Avenida Duque de Loulé puts you metres from Praça Marquês de Pombal and that grand boulevard Avenida da Liberdade.

Nestled in the forests of the Vuma Mountains that overlook the Mkata Plains of the Mikumi National Park below, Vuma is a cool retreat from the heat of a day's game drive. The sixteen tents are comfortably furnished, so sleeping under canvas at Vuma is a far cry from any ideas of discomfort. Complete with a shaded wooden veranda at the front and en-suite bathroom facilities at the back, you won't be left wanting. The cosy bar area centres around a roaring log fire, opening onto a large decking area from where you can take in the setting sun over the Mkata plains below. Under the same thatch, the dining area enjoys widespread views through the lush trees and overlooks the swimming pool. The Mkata Plains support vast herds of game such as wildebeest, impala, zebra and giraffe with the keys to an outstanding game drive being ever-present - experience, knowledge and a suitable vehicle.