Location
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

River Lodge is located in the heart of the private Lion Sands Game Reserve. On the banks of the Sabie River, the east-facing lodge catches the sunrise over adjacent Kruger National Park while offers a sumptuous respite from the midday Lowveld heat, shaded by trees that are more than 800 years old. In 2010 River Lodge underwent a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, tripling the size of the rooms and updating them with exquisite furnishings and amenities. Twenty thatched luxury suites overlook the unfenced African bush or the Sabie River. Suites feature contemporary decor in tranquil shades of cream and beige. All have air conditioning, ceiling fans, a spacious bedroom, separate lounge with mini bar, and a private wooden deck from which to survey the wilds beyond. En suite bathrooms have sleek white double vanity basins and stand-alone soaking tubs with a view. Two classes of rooms are offered: 12 luxury and eight superior luxury.

Suites are linked to the common areas by raised wooden walkways. River Lodge offers guests a magnificent lounge with soaring thatched ceiling, dramatic chandelier, fireplace and bar, an outdoor safari lounge, both indoor and outdoor dining areas, a curio shop, two swimming pools (heated in winter), wooden viewing decks, and a secluded bird hide. Three different tree houses on the reserve offer a magical night under the stars.

Another River Lodge highlight is its romantic treehouses, which offer a magical night of luxury under the stars. Guests arrive at sunset for a picnic dinner, as dusk begins to envelop the vast bushveld. When it's time to turn in, you'll sleep beneath the Milky Way, where you may well lose count of the shooting stars – it's like you're in a planetarium surrounded by the sounds of African animals below you! Three treehouses are available to book in conjunction with your accommodation. Guests pack an overnight bag with essentials, leaving other belongings back in their suite.