Fugitives’ Drift

Against the magnificent backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa, and overlooking the secluded Mfazimnyama Valley, lies Three Trees at Spioenkop (also known as Three Tree Hill lodge).

This eco-friendly lodge places great emphasis on responsible tourism and offers spectacular scenery, locally grown farm-style country food with superb hospitality. It is the ideal environment in which to unwind and be rejuvenated. This intimate, luxury eighteen bed lodge is owner-managed by a couple whose passion and enthusiasm for Africa’s wildlife, history and culture is immediately evident.

In keeping with the historical theme, it seven cottages were constructed to resemble the housing kits brought out from Britain in the 19th century; the emphasis is simple luxury with style. Verandas overlook the Spioenkop Game Reserve, which is host to rhino, giraffe, zebra, eland and numerous other antelope species. A bird list of 300 species has been recorded in the area and viewing can be done from your private deck at each suite.

As well as expertly led battlefield tours, guests can explore the farm on horseback, mountain bike or on foot. Rhino tracking in the reserve and hikes in the Drakensberg foothills can also be organised.

Set on a world-class stud farm, Hartford House is an award-winning and truly luxurious hotel found among the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Wrapped in flourishing grounds with majestic horses, this property boasts spectacular mountain views, while within the house sumptuous design graces the rooms and suites.

Suites enjoy lavish amenities such as private decks, plunge pools and cosy lounges – plus the dining here is superb. From the classic dining room to a candlelit verandah, you can feast on award-winning cuisine prepared by the fantastic chef, Jackie Cameron.

When you’re not indulging in comfort or delicious dishes, take a walk or horse-ride through the estate’s lovely grounds, try your hand at trout fishing or relax with a dip in the pool.

The Nambiti Reserve might only be 8,093-hectares in size but it holds one of the highest game concentrations in Africa.

This could be down to the fact that this perfectly sized reserve, 23 kilometres east of Ladysmith, also possesses large herds of herbivores that benefit from Nambiti’s range of habitats that include savannah, thornveld, ravine brush, acacia trees and grasslands.

Running through Nambiti is the magnificent Sundays River and being one of the fastest flowing rivers in South Africa it has gouged some 40-metre waterfalls into the landscape of this reserve. This is also one of best places to see cheetah, as well as being conveniently close to the Anglo-Boer battlefields should you like to mix a little history into your safari.

With only eight suites, Nambiti Lodge feels exclusively intimate but the main player is definitely the views. As such each room has its own private viewing deck for your own personal slice of the savannah unfolding.

Traditional African artwork and designs have been carefully folded into the tangibly modern set up of this Lodge’s rooms and areas. The effect is chic and elegant yet preserving a tasteful authenticity.

The rock pool is wonderful to relax beside and cool off after a safari and there are number of different activities from game drives, fly fishing for trout off river dams, astronomy, golf and battlefield tours.