Best Hotels & Lodges

When the grandfather of the present owners of Borana arrived in this spot, 17 miles (27 kilometres) north of the equator and 6,000 feet (1,830 metres) above sea level, he simply fell in love with its isolation and wildness. Now his descendants have built a lodge on the land that he adored. Made of local, sustainable materials, Borana Lodge sits subtly on this malaria-free landscape, with panoramic views across the Samangua Valley and the Lewa Plains to the Ngare Ndare Forest and Mount Kenya beyond. Inside, all is luxurious and plush. A perfect breakaway location in a splendid setting.

The very essence of Argentine charm, Posada Verde Oliva is a 19th-century home-turned-hotel set on a working vineyard and olive farm. From the wrap-around veranda, gaze out upon the ripening grapes and olives, the latter of which are turned into remedies used at the spa. Set in the heart of the Maipu Valley, there is plenty to see and do including vineyard-hopping tours, scenic bicycle rides, and horseback sojourns amongst the vines. Laidback and homely, you'll be welcomed warmly back to the Posada Verde Olivia after every excursion, when you can settle down in the firelit lounge or recline poolside.

Intrepid and fully immersed in nature, Etendeka Walking Trail takes you into the wild spaces of Damaraland, with the Grootberg Massif as your ever-present guide. The expert team knows every crag, animal and plant in the 500 km2 Etendeka Concession - and they'll passionately share their knowledge with you on this three-day trek. Set off from Palmwag Lodge leaving your main luggage to be delivered to your next stop, a camp overlooking a lively waterhole. Day two is the most strenuous, where you'll walk a distance of 15 - 20 kilometres - but at the end you'll be rewarded with a night atop the beautifully-named Crystal Mountain. Just imagine the stargazing...

Sitting beneath the dangling boughs of a 100-year-old rain tree beside the serene Ping River, Na Nirand Retreat captures the charm and whimsy of Chiang Mai. The entire hotel was constructed with Chiang Mai's heritage in mind and aims to preserve the authentic knowledge of its people, evidence of which you'll see throughout the hotel. Built in a Colonial-Lanna style, the rooms feature beautiful textiles, teak pieces and original art, all the handy work of local artisans. Bicycles are always ready and waiting whenever you feel like exploring more of the city, its historic sites, and ornate temples.

Sitting proudly on a hill above the New Town of Fez, Hotel Sahrai is the picture of Moroccan refinement. Once the summer palace of Marshal Lyautey, it is a minimalist blend of exposed Taza sandstone, floor-to-ceiling windows, and contemporary Italian furniture. After a morning meander through the 12th century labyrinth of the Fes el Bali medina, return for a dip in the infinity pool (the views of Mount Zalagh are scenic to say the least) and afternoon tea under the Fassi arches. Understated, stylish, and designed for the utmost comfort, the rooms are just where you want to be following a day in the souks of Fez.

Built in the 1950s, and then abandoned for half a century, Chobe Safari Lodge has been renovated to become a welcome and very comfortable retreat in the wilds of Uganda's rich and varied Murchison Falls National Park. The isolation here is complete, despite the lodge being just four hours by road from Kampala, as humans rarely ventured here in the intervening years and the wildlife has been left to thrive. The panoramic views, coupled with the sounds of the Nile's tumbling rapids, set the scene for an experience that will satisfy all your African adventure-loving dreams.

Changa sits in its own private concession with 4kms of frontage onto Lake Kariba, just east of Matusadona National Park. This area is wild and remote, well known for its big game (especially elephants, buffalo and hippos) and is perhaps the best tiger fishing destination in Africa. The lodge opened in 2012 and is amongst the most luxurious in this region - from the top level of service and exceptional food, to the intimacy that an eight-roomed camp affords. Here the staff make a special effort to enhance every moment of your stay.

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is a nirvana for picky travellers and if ever the phrase, "there's really something for everyone" suited somewhere, it's here. Animal-lovers (in case the name didn't give it away), will be in heaven, interacting with local elephant and wildlife, budding gourmets can learn to cook northern Thai cuisine, fitness fanatics can work up a sweat with a muay thai boxing lesson or two, and seasoned loungers can, well, lounge amid the opulent surroundings. With restaurants to suit every taste, newly-renovated and beautifully-decorated bedrooms, a wine cellar, and a multitude of magical experiences, it would be impossible not to fall in love with this jungle spot.

One of the first in the city, the hotel has been providing guests a unique and unforgettable view of Florence since 1860. Now completely renovated, it still preserves its original character, and is the ideal place from which to experience the city. Its rooms offer a perfect blend of classical features and contemporary style, and give you the oh so difficult choice between a view of the River Arno and one of the majestic Santa Croce. Its crowning achievement? The rooftop pool and bar with panoramic views of the 'Cradle of the Renaissance'.