Best Hotels & Lodges

In the serene landscapes of Eluwankulama, Taru Villas Villu, a distinguished member of Small Luxury Hotels of the Worl, reveals itself as an eco-luxury masterpiece. Seven meticulously crafted chalets, each boasting a private plunge pool, stand as elegant witnesses to nature's untold stories, offering an exclusive experience where refined indulgence meets wild adventure.

Here, amid pristine surroundings, extraordinary adventures await. Witness leopards prowling their natural habitat, follow elephant trails through verdant forests and sail alongside magnificent whales in their oceanic domain. This is where Sri Lanka's most magnificent creatures share their world with the privileged few.

Right in the heart of Patan Durbar Square, this UNESCO World Heritage Site address doesn't get much more prestigious. Conservation architect Rohit Ranjitkar has worked architectural magic on an old traditional brick and timber Newari house, transforming it into a heritage hotel that respects its past whilst embracing contemporary comfort. The historic configuration remains intact, complete with a private courtyard that serves as the property's beating heart, whilst 10 individually designed rooms ensure no two stays are quite the same. This is heritage hospitality done properly - where living history doesn't require sacrificing modern conveniences, and where the incredible architecture outside your door provides daily reminders that you're staying somewhere genuinely special.

Step off the bustling streets and into a world where vintage charm meets contemporary cool in the leafy northern suburbs. This architectural gem in the Art Deco district offers a delightful respite from city madness without sacrificing an ounce of urban sophistication. The earthy design elements drawn from the African savannah create a space that feels both grounded and stylish – perfect for the discerning traveller who wants substance with their style. With the Gautrain Station a stone's throw away and the Sandton Convention Centre just a 10-minute ride, you're ideally positioned to explore all the Big Smoke has to offer. When you're done adventuring, retreat to the all-day eatery, Proud Mary, or tap away on your laptop in the premium co-working space.

Escape to the Peermont Metcourt at Emperors Palace, and experience the contemporary convenience this 3-star gem has to offer. The hotel’s modern façade is complimented by a private pool terrace, set in a beautifully manicured garden. Guests can enjoy an early morning swim followed by breakfast at the F.L.A.G Café, or enjoy a sundowner at the 21 Degrees cocktail bar. Even business guests will feel at home with a boardroom and business centre available for their exclusive use. The hotel offers 348 stylish and comfortable rooms and is the Peermont Metcourt Hotel is ideal for corporate, convention and leisure guests, as well as groups. The Peermont Metcourt Hotel annex includes the grand Capri Suite, comprising of a private lounge and dining area balcony overlooking the pool terrace, additional seating to the existing F.L.A.G. Café, an extra guest lift, a sky bar, a 24 hour gymnasium and enhanced access to the offerings of the entire Emperors Palace resort.

Experience warm hospitality, free uncapped WiFi, spa, gym, outdoor pool, steak-house dining, business amenities, and service excellence at the Southern Sun Rosebank hotel. Perfectly positioned just two blocks away from The Rosebank Mall and Gautrain station our hotel is as equipped for business as it is for a leisure break in the city.

Hidden in Morningside's leafy streets, Fairlawns delivers old-world grandeur without the stuffiness that often comes with it. This former private residence has morphed into something rather special – 41 suites that hop between design themes from French provincial to Far Eastern, all wrapped up in manicured gardens that make you forget you're 20 minutes from Africa's financial heartbeat. The Balinese-inspired spa sits tucked amongst bamboo gardens, while Amuse-Bouche restaurant takes French-African fusion seriously enough to win awards but not so seriously that you can't rock up in smart-casual attire.

Nestled in the leafy, jacaranda-lined neighbourhood of Houghton in Johannesburg, The Residence Hotel is true delight to behold. Each and every piece was personally chosen by the owners, from richly-patterned rugs to chandeliers and gilded portraits. Outside, the gardens are filled with greenery, creating a tranquil retreat from bustling Joburg – especially if you're in a suite with a hot tub. If you do choose to venture out, there are plenty of pursuits to enjoy nearby and the hotel team simply cannot be faulted in their service and recommendations.