Tokoriki Island Resort, Mamanuca Islands, Fiji – Romance, Luxury & Unlimited Spa Experience

Fiji, Fiji, Honeymoon, South Sea, Spa, Videos, Wedding 0 Comments

“Arrive as a visitor and leave as a friend”

Fiji is the ultimate place of yearning in the South Seas! It is one of the happiest places with the most charming people in the world. The Award Winning Tokoriki Island Resort is one of the most romantic, adults-only resorts we have ever visited. The warm Fijian hospitality of the kind staff touches you deeply, and the design of the 5-star luxury boutique resort is truly impressive. Visiting Tokoriki was an unforgettable experience that can only be described in one word – bliss!

More than 20 years ago, Andrew Turnbull, a successful lollipop importer, decided to buy Tokoriki Island and fulfilled his dream of owning his own resort. With his love for Fiji and the locals, he has created a luxury resort that today is among the top 1% in the world.

“Everyone said I didn’t have a clue about running a resort but my wife and I had travelled around the world and we knew what we liked in a hotel.” – Andrew Turnbull, Owner

Fiji is an island state in the South Pacific, north of New Zealand and east of Australia. Tokoriki, located in the Mamanuca Islands, can be reached from the main island Viti Levu in style by helicopter in 15 minutes or by catamaran in an hour.

Both the welcome and farewell in Fiji is unique and exceptional indeed. We were picked up by boat and warmly welcomed by Vincent. 

Upon arrival at Tokoriki, we were welcomed with a welcome song, a beautiful necklace, a refreshing drink and a foot ritual, which can be redeemed at the spa.

The extraordinary design of the resort, the garden, and the Bures was created by Yvonne, the wife of owner Andrew Turnbull. With great attention to detail, she has selected every single piece of furniture and decorative element to create a unique ambiance. What an incredible eye for design!

“There isn’t a light switch or a coat of paint my wife hasn’t chosen,” – Andrew Turnbull, Owner

Everything looks incredibly stylish, yet with the warm earthy tones and natural materials, it exudes a comfortable and cosy atmosphere inviting you to feel at home and relax!

At the bar, besides beaming smiles, you can also get an ice-cold Fijian beer or a fancy cocktail.

Beach, please!

You can swim in the crystal clear water of the spectacular lagoon at low and high tide. By the way, Tokoriki is also a member of the Mamanuca Environment Society that helps to protect turtles, corals and monitor the water quality.

Pool Time

At the 25 m long freshwater infinity pool, you can relax, enjoy the peace and quiet and the sea view. With a maximum of 72 guests on the island, you will always find a free sunbed.

The spectacular lighting of the torches at the pool by the typical Fiji Warriors at sunset is not to be missed!

Beachfront Bures & Villas

The unique 36 detached Bures and villas are all located on the beach and embody a blend of contemporary style and Fijian design. They are at least 60 square meters, air-conditioned and have beautiful tropical indoor and outdoor showers. All have a large terrace with mesmerizing views of the azure sea and 28 of them also have a private pool.

Beachfront Pool Bure

To get away from it all, relax and unwind, and just enjoy nature, there are no televisions, telephones or internet. 

The warm colours, the natural materials, the stunning works of art and the typical Fijian decorative elements, create a romantic and intimate atmosphere.

We could use this beautiful Bure, number 1, on the last day until our departure.

Taste of the Islands

On Tokoriki, there are many possibilities to enjoy the delicious Fijian food. You can enjoy the delicious dishes with local and imported products in your own villa, on the jetty, in the restaurant or by the sea. Daily changing menus with South Pacific and Asian influences and a modern international touch are served.

If you book half-board, a sumptuous breakfast with sparkling wine, afternoon tea and a 3-course menu is included. There is no extra charge for breakfast or dinner by the sea or the teppanyaki experience. With full-board, a 2-course lunch is also included.

Breakfast by the sea

Breakfast with this stunning ocean view is simply mesmerizing!

Lunch

What is extraordinary about lunch, is not only the delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere, but also the live music provided by talented singers, like Vili. 

 

“Vili has a voice of an angel. If you hear him sing “Hallelujah” you will cry!!” – Andrew Turnbull, Owner

Halleluja – sung by Vili:

 

Oishii Teppanyaki

The Teppanyaki experience is an intimate, social dining experience in the tropical garden surrounded by water lily ponds for a maximum of four couples. The À-la-carte menu, served by the entertaining chef, is tasty and a lot of fun! 

Dinner

Sunset Dining

It does not get more romantic than dinner by the sea at sunset! This really is the perfect spot to celebrate special occasions.

We celebrated Marcus’ birthday here. Being serenaded by the warm-hearted employees, the surprise birthday cake and then Vili and Tom, who sang for us, ensured that this was an unforgettable experience!

Unlimited ’60 Minute Massage’ Retreat

The spa at Tokoriki is beautifully embedded in nature and has lovely open and uniquely designed treatment rooms. Usually, treatments in such a luxury resort are expensive. But with the “Unlimited Spa” offer, Andrew and his wife wanted to provide an affordable package so that everyone could enjoy the massages. Magnificient!

When you book the spa package, once you arrive at the resort, you can arrange spa appointments for the next few days. Where else can you get a 60 Minute massage twice a day? Absolutely brilliant!

Unlimited 60-minute massage retreat

  • 3 days FJ$450 per person or FJ$790 per couple
  • 4 days FJ$550 per person or FJ$990 per couple
  • 5 days FJ$650 per person or FJ$1190 per couple

The massages are performed by loving and professionally certified therapists and are an incredibly relaxing spa experience amidst volcanic rock walls, gentle falling water and birdsong. 

Only Nama products are used. The ingredients come from the pristine waters of the Yasawa region of Fiji, an unspoiled region without any pollution. The Nama Collection is free from synthetic fragrances, chemicals, parabens, synthetic colours or flavours and is created to provide lasting hydration. 

Thanks to the beautiful ambiance and the lovely therapists we enjoyed this special spa experience tremendously!

Honeymoon & Wedding

Tokoriki is one of the most beautiful and romantic places on earth, with the most charming people. This not just a throwaway remark; the people in Fiji and especially the singers here in Tokoriki really touched our hearts. And that’s why it is    one of the most magical places to propose, celebrate a honeymoon, host a beach wedding or any other special occasion.

Honeymoon gift (from 3 nights)

Couples Experience
FJ$2375 (approximately 975 EUR per night)
Including all meals, daily 60-minute massage, island beach picnic plus three tours per couple (visiting a local village, guided snorkel trip and Monuriki visit). A minimum stay of 5 nights applies.

Renewal of Vows
 from FJ$ 1915
(free of charge with a stay of 7 nights or more)

  • Ceremony by the Minister
  • Floral welcome in your Bure / Villa on arrival and at turndown
  • Chapel
  • Table flower arrangement
  • Bottle of Moet & Chandon

Paradise Wedding
from FJ$ 4425

  • Choice of location – beach, Bure or Villa 
  • Marriage Licence fee 
  • Ceremony by Minister 
  • Tokoriki wedding certificate cylinder 
  • Floral welcome in your Bure or Villa on arrival and turndown on wedding night  
  • Table flower arrangement 
  • Bridal bouquet 
  • Traditional flower leis 
  • Traditional Fijian warrior escort for the bride 
  • Serenaders during ceremony 
  • Decorated wedding cake for two 
  • Toast – a bottle of Moet & Chandon (or similar) 
  • Wedding Dinner – oceanfront candlelit dinner including a bottle of Moet & Chandon (or similar)

Traditional Wedding
from FJ$5615

as above plus

  • Chapel
  • Fijian choir
  • Flower girl in traditional Fijian dress 
  • Tokoriki gift “memory” – marked with name and date of the wedding 
  • Room service – Breakfast with a bottle of Moet & Chandon

Wedding Brochure >>

Sand, Sea & Land

Activities

  • Unlimited massage retreat
  • Picnics on the private island beach
  • Lounging by the pool
  • Padi Gold Palm 5 * Diving, snorkeling, tennis
  • Free cocktail tasting on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 17:30 to 18:00
  • Kava ceremony on Wednesday and Sunday evening
  • Happy Hour daily from 17:30 to 19:00

The Kava Ceremony is a nice social experience where you can get to know the Fijian culture a little better.

Transfer

Helicopter: FJ$682 p.p. one way, FJ$1202 p.P. return, 15 minutes
Speedboat: FJ$1180 per couple one way, 20 minutes
SSC Ferry:FJ$160 p.p. one way, departure daily from Port Denarau at 9:15 & 15:00 – arrival at Tokoriki Island Resort at 10:15 & 16:15

Conclusion

Honestly, Tokoriki touches your heart and guarantees unforgettable memories! The people here in Fiji are truly unique! We could not have chosen a more beautiful place for Marcus’ birthday. Tokoriki is romance pure and exudes a joy for life! The unique design of the resort, the extraordinary spa experience, the variety of gourmet experiences, and the friendly and attentive staff make this resort a highly recommended spot to celebrate life’s special moments.  And if you get the chance to hear Vili sing, it is unforgettable indeed!

Rooms: 36 Bures & Villas (28 with pools)
Flight duration: 11 hours to Singapore and from there another 10 and a half hours to Nadi
Transfer: helicopter, seaplane, speedboat or SSC ferry
Vaccinations: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Pertussis, Measles, and Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended
Air Temperature: 20 – 34 degrees Celsius
Water Temperature: 25 – 28 degrees Celsius
Time difference: CET +11 hours
Best time to travel: May to October has pleasant temperatures; November to April is the time with the highest humidity and the heaviest precipitation and possibly cyclones and hurricanes. It is also cheaper and not so crowded during this period. In the west of the Fiji Islands, there is less rain than on the eastern islands.
Price: FJ$1430 per night for 2 adults (16 years and older, minimum stay 2 nights), half board incl. full breakfast, afternoon tea and a 3-course menu – FJ$210 per person per day (no extra charge for dinner by the sea, breakfast by the sea or a teppanyaki experience)
Specials: a bottle of French champagne from Moet & Chandon for the honeymoon, birthday or wedding anniversary (6 nights or more), FJ$ 250 resort credit for 5 nights, FJ $ 1000 resort credit for 7 nights stays, free helicopter transfer for 7 nights
Vale VIP Programme: VIP check-in, welcome cocktail, refreshing fragrant towels, Tokoriki Lei (garland), footbath, early check-in before 2pm, free upgrade (subject to availability) on arrival, free Bure to shower if late check-out is not possible (if booked directly with the resort)
Activities: Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Hobie Cat Sailing, Snorkeling Equipment, Kayak, Spa, Traditional Basket Weaving, Board Games, Garden Chess, Library, Coconut Tree of Life Story, Fresh Water and Saltwater Swimming Pools, Glass Bottom Boating, Herbal Medicine Walk, Hiking, Jogging, Table Tennis, Petanque, Chapel Service, Soccer, Cultural Entertainment, Volleyball and TRX Fitness Platform
Special features: unique ambiance, magnificent tropical garden, delicious cuisine, ingenious spa experience, excellent staff, stunning design
Perfect for: couples, romantics, friends, honeymooners, people seeking peace and quiet, wellness


Tokoriki Island Resort
Mamanucas, Fiji Islands
Telephone: +679 666 1999
Reservation: +679 672 5926, +679 672 5927
reservations@tokoriki.com
www.tokoriki.com

Condé Nast Traveller UK – ‘Top 100’ list
Luxury Travel Magazine’s – ‘Best Overseas Luxury Romantic & Boutique Property’
TripAdvisor Awards – #1 Top Hotel in Fiji – 2019 – 2014
TripAdvisor Awards – #1 Top Hotel for Romance in Fiji
TripAdvisor Awards – #1 Top Hotel for Service in Fiji 2019
TripAdvisor  – The Best of Mamanuca Islands
TripAdvisor – Top Ten Hotels in Fiji
TripAdvisor – #1 Best Restaurant in the Mamanucas for “Oishii’ Teppanyaki

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_______________________________________________________________________

Please note: We financed our stay at Tokoriki Island Resort ourselves.

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Kings Camp Private Game Reserve, Timbavati Nature Reserve, South Africa – Big 5, Romance & Luxury

Africa, animal welfare, Honeymoon, social commitment, South Africa, Videos 0 Comments

A luxurious, stylish safari lodge with spectacular wildlife encounters

We love the African bush: watching leopards with their cubs, early morning coffee in the bushveld, nyala antelope walking past the pool, sundowners, romantic campfire dinners and relaxing by the pool. What more could you wish for? And it’s especially beautiful here at Kings Camp!

Experience the charm and romance of a bygone era, spectacular wildlife sightings and marvel at the beautiful views of the African grasslands at this luxurious safari lodge with nine stylish safari-colonial suites.

The 60,000 hectare Timbavati Reserve, with its shady acacia and mopane trees, small lakes and the Nhlaralumi River, is breathtakingly beautiful – a piece of pristine Africa on the western border of the Kruger National Park. The reserve was established in the 1950s by a group of landowners who wanted to conserve the area, the fences adjacent to the Kruger National Park were removed in 1993, and now guests have the opportunity to experience wildlife at its best on an area of ​​2.2 million hectares.  The Timbavati Nature Reserve is home to 40 mammal and 282 bird species. The animals can even walk through the camp so you cannot walk around alone at night.

You can splash around in the pool overlooking a busy waterhole, sip a cocktail in the open lounge or bar and enjoy the excellent food in a romantic setting in the restaurant. Thanks to the kind and dedicated staff you will be spoiled all around.

Joof Alberts bought, renovated and opened this eco-lodge for discerning clients in 1995. Since 1998, it has been managed by husband and wife team, Warren and Lisha Moore, as if it was their own. Thanks to them and their dedicated staff, many of whom have been there from the very beginning, they manage to create an atmosphere, where one really feels welcome and at home.

“The magic of the Timbavati bush is waiting…”

High up in a tree-house style lounge you can enjoy the silence of nature.

Honeymoon Suite

The large honeymoon suite has a huge verandah with sun loungers, seating area, and private pool, a large king-sized four-poster bed, an open plan lounge with a comfortable seating area and a stylish open-plan bathroom with free-standing bathtub, double basins, and indoor and outdoor showers. You have plenty of space to relax, switch off and let nature work its magic thanks to the two large double doors framing the majestic landscape.

Wild animals visited the small waterhole in front of our suite. We saw some beautiful nyalas that are also depicted in the paintings in the suite, hornbills, and squirrels.

The wonderful Patricia: such a kind-hearted soul and just one of the many wonderful staff members at the lodge. Almost everyone addresses you by your first name, a very personal and warm gesture that really makes you feel at home.

“Kings Camp cordially invites you to join the spirit of mandleve and to walk with us into an eden of the past in this pristine corner of unspoiled Africa.”

The dark wood, the warm colors, the beautiful paintings, the golden picture frames, the massive chandeliers, and many striking design elements give the suite a palatial and at the same time intimate feel.

There is a Nespresso coffee machine, delicious sherry and a generously filled mini-bar in the suite.

Waterbuck Private Camp

The Waterbuck Camp overlooks a dry riverbed, has four bedrooms and can sleep up to eight people. It has a pool and a vast garden. This private villa offers privacy and pure luxury!

The camp has its own private game vehicle, ranger, tracker, chef, and housekeeper. 

Sunrise Safari

You have to get up early for the morning game drive. After a wake-up call, a fresh cup of coffee and a small snack in the library we left the lodge just before sunrise at 5:00 am (5:30 am in the winter). Actually, we were just hoping to see a few Impala antelope – but once again the safari gods smiled upon us, and we saw so much more!

Sunrise in the African bush is a fantastic experience and worth getting up early for. The animals are more active in the morning, so the chances of some rare animal sightings are better. Just remember to dress warmly, especially in winter.

How sweet and perfect are these young nyalas!

After listening to all sorts of beautiful birds, zebras, nyalas and loads of interesting information and stories from our ranger Neil, we made our first Big 5 sighting.

We found Ntumbi, a beautiful leopard lady, busy feasting on her freshly caught prey in a small embankment. Neil drove down the slope, and we had a fantastic view of the leopardess. The leopards here are used to the jeeps and therefore simply cannot be bothered by their presence.

Ntumbi even brought her prey up into a big mopane tree right next to us.

Just when we thought it could not get any better, Ntumbi’s 9-month-old boy appeared and lay down on the ground next to the jeep, watching us. What a breathtaking experience to be able to look such a magnificent creature directly in the eyes. Unforgettable!

In awe, we spent a small eternity watching the leopards. Luckily, there were not many jeeps driving around, so we had time to take in the moment. Brilliant!

Lazy and full, Ntumbi was just hanging in the beautiful mopane tree.

After this amazing experience, we had a small breakfast with fresh coffee and hot chocolate in a dry riverbed in the middle of the African bush.

Freshly brewed bush coffee with Amarula – there is hardly anything better!

On the way back to the camp we even discovered some rhinos – great that they are protected here!

At around 9:00 we happily returned to camp, having experienced a wealth of wildlife sightings and ready to enjoy a hearty breakfast at the restaurant. If you want to, you can go on a guided bush walk afterwards.

Restaurant

The spacious restaurant serves delicious, tasty meals by the log fire or on the large terrace overlooking the waterhole.

Breakfast

Breakfast is served buffet style. Scrumptious, warm egg dishes are made to order.

Lunch

After relaxing for a while in your exquisite villa or enjoying a spa treatment, lunch is served between 13:30 and 15:00 with a beautiful view of the bush and the possibility of seeing some wildlife.

Sunset Safari

After a cup of afternoon coffee or tea in the library, we went on our next safari in the afternoon at 16:00 (15:30 in the winter).

The excitement when leaving is always tangible; you never know what you might see this time round. 

We saw many animals on our afternoon game drive: impalas, kudu, giraffes, buffalos, wildebeests, rhinos, leopards and elephants.

These little elephant bulls gave us quite a show – so sweet. Annoyed, they ran towards the vehicle, angrily threw branches around, then tried to hide and even struck an impressive pose – incredibly cute!

But when the elephant mom got impatient, our ranger wisely decided it was time to move on.

We also saw Ntumbi and her cub again in the same spot as earlier the morning, still nibbling on their prey.

With a little luck, you can also see lions, cheetahs, hyenas and larger antelope like roan, eland, and tsessebe.

Lady luck was on our side, as we spotted yet another leopard. In the beautiful light of the sunset, we watched Marula and her 4-month-old cub.

Nothing is more amazing than having sundowners in the bush. With a gin & tonic in hand and some South African snacks like Biltong, nuts and dried fruit, we enjoyed the sunset.

At about 7 pm we went back to the camp. There we were warmly welcomed with a small aperitif.

Bar

After a refreshing drink at the bar, once you have had the opportunity to freshen up in your villa, it was dinner time.

Dinner

In the private dining room with its stunning chandelier and romantic fireplace, sumptuous meals are served matched with iconic South African wines.

Dinner served by the open fire under the starry African sky is especially romantic. 

This is how you imagine Africa! Heavenly!

Social commitment & animal conservation

Apart from animal conservation, Kings Camp also strives to help the surrounding communities in cultural, environmental and economic terms. The Timbavati Foundation supports local sustainability programs that involve 29 high schools and an ever-growing number of primary schools in the area. 

Honeymoon & Wedding

Kings Camp offers a perfect and stylish bush setting for proposing, hosting a wedding with a colonial charm or enjoying a romantic honeymoon. Wedding ceremonies take place in the middle of the African wilderness in a dry riverbed.

Wedding Package from 1550 EUR (further information >>)

  • Wedding ceremony in a dry riverbed in the heart of the bushveld
  • Local flowers of your choice for the bridal bouquet and the bridal table
  • Sparkling wine for the bridal couple
  • Single layer wedding cake with a topping of your choice
  • Local Shangaan dancers to perform at the ceremony or reception
  • Wedding turndown for the bridal couple
  • Gift for the bridal couple, courtesy of Kings Camp

Spa

In addition to a fitness room, there is also a beautiful spa. You can treat yourself to a relaxing massage or a regenerating beauty treatment at the spa or for ultimate privacy, in the comfort of your suite.

Conclusion

From the warm welcome to the farewell, we felt very much at home at Kings Camp. The suites are exquisite and offer loads of privacy. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful and the staff incredibly kind. Thanks to our excellent guide Neil and his tracker Donald, we had amazing and unforgettable safaris and wildlife sightings. The lodge is truly a haven where you can experience the African bush in refined luxury. The ambiance is wonderfully relaxing! If you would like to enjoy a unique, extraordinary African bush experience, we highly recommend this lodge!

Room: Six Luxury Suites, one Family Suite and two Honeymoon Suites with Pool
Flight: Flight nonstop from Frankfurt to Johannesburg in 10 and a half hours with South African Airways; the flight to Hoedspruit with SA Express takes about 50 minutes
Transfer: from Hoedspruit about 1 hour drive to the lodge
Air Temperature: 25 – 40 degrees Celsius in summer, 5 – 25 degrees Celsius in winter
Time difference: none
Best travel time: Summer is from September to April: it is very hot with high rainfall. Winter is from May to August: it does not rain, but it is considerably colder at night.
Vaccinations: Tetanus,   Diphtheria,   Poliomyelitis,   Hepatitis A, rabies and hepatitis B (for long-term stays), adequate malaria precautions are advisable
Price: From 620 EUR per person per night in a Luxury Suite.  This fee includes all meals, tea & coffee, mini bar, game drives, all beverages (excluding premier wines), laundry service,  wireless Internet access
Note: Only children above the age of six are allowed
Special offers: 8-Night Luxury Bush Trilogy from 6700 EUR per person including flights (3 Nights Madikwe Hills | 3 Nights Leopard Hills | 2 Nights Kings Camp)
Specialties: Exciting safaris with great rangers, wonderful wildlife experiences also at the lodge, super-friendly staff, luxurious suites, delicious cuisine, extremely relaxing atmosphere
Perfect for: Couples, adventurers, peace seekers, romantics, nature lovers, animal lovers, and families


KINGS CAMP
Private Game Reserve
+27 (0)13 751 1621
+27 (0)82 675 6539
book@kingscamp.com
www.kingscamp.com

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Please note: Our stay was sponsored by Kings Camp. Thank you so much!
Nevertheless, the opinions voiced in this article are 100% our own!  

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Hog Hollow Country Lodge & Villa, Garden Route, South Africa – Romantic fireplaces & adventure for families and couples + restaurant tips (+ video)

Africa, Interviews 0 Comments

Crackling fireplaces, beautiful nature and plenty of animals between the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the Indian Ocean

Hog Hollow Country Lodge is one of the most popular lodges in South Africa. It is situated in a private nature reserve on the Garden Route, 18 kilometres east of Plettenberg Bay with breathtaking views of the Matjies River Gorge and the Tsitsikamma Mountains.

Andy Fermor and his wife Debbie bought the lodge in 1993 and have developed it since into a small jewel with 16 suites, a villa and a country house. Families and couples feel right at home here.

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In the video you will find a few impressions of the lodge and also a short interview with manager Jo Melton Butler (Josi) – she is such a charming person!

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Lodge

In the main area of this 4 star lodge you will find 3 lounge areas, the restaurant and a spacious terrace with many comfortable sofas and fireplaces.

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“If you can spend a perfectly useless afternoon in a perfectly useless manner, you have learned how too live.° – Lin Yutang

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On the large terrace you can relax and unwind or end the day at one of the cozy fireplaces in the evening. Sometimes a few monkeys will even pass by.

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Restaurant

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Breakfast is varied. There is a huge selection to choose from including some egg dishes. You can enjoy breakfast comfortably on the terrace or also indoors.

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Dinner starts every evening with an aperitif on the romantic terrace. A delicious 3-course menu is served by candlelight and open fire either at the communal or at individual tables. Fresh local ingredients and lots of fresh fish are used. From R195 per person excluding drinks.

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Pool

The pool is located below the terrace. Here you can quite simply relax without any disturbance, swim and enjoy the wonderful view!

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Suiten

The 16 cozy suites are situated in the garden and are decorated in friendly earthy tones and furnished with hand crafted artefacts. They all have comfortable seating areas, king-size beds, a minibar, a hi-fi system, a fireplace, a bathroom with corner bathtub and a wooden deck with chairs and hammock. There is no telephone or TV, but instead the most stunning panoramic views!

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We enjoyed the fireplace in our room! To fall asleep by the crackling fire was so beautiful and romantic! And if it rains, it is even cozier.

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Highlight: you can open the large glass stack sliding doors in the room and bathroom completely.

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One should only leave the doors open though, while you are there. And leaving anything outside on the terrace, is also not a good idea – because the monkeys do like to drop by!

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Another animal guest that also liked to pop in, is the lodge’s pet cat! She decided that it was much nicer with us at the fireplace, than outside in the rain!

Villa

The lodge also has a villa. It is located about 400 metres from the main building. Families or up to 3 couples can comfortably stay here. The villa also has a games room, a kitchen, a dining area, a fireplace, an infinity pool and a barbecue. It is perfect for families with children.

Country House

The Country House has just been rebuilt and is very chic and tastefully decorated and it has all been done by owner Andy himself!

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‘Life is good’, Andy Fermor

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In addition to the great pool, there are several bedrooms with fireplaces, a living room with dining area and fireplace as well as a large terrace.

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Hog Hollow Horse Trails

The Hog Lodge offers one hour riding trips and three hour horseback riding trips for adults and children. Advanced riders as well as beginners can explore the magnificent surroundings on horseback. (From R590 or about 39 EUR for the one hour riding trip)

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More info: www.horseridinggardenroute.com

Sightseeing Tips

There are numerous attractions just around the corner such as Plettenberg Bay, Storms River, Nature’s Valley, the adorable village town Wilderness among many others.

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Keurbooms Beach
After a short drive you are right on the beach.

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The Crags Wine Route
There are up to 16 wineries in the area that offer great wine tastings.
www.plettwinelands.com

Birds of Eden
You will find plenty of African birds and miniature monkeys on these 2 hectares of forest. www.birdsofeden.co.za

Monkeyland
Eighteen different monkey species live in Monkeyland’s 12 hectare forest. Eleven of these species can be found roaming freely. Among them are lemurs, Bolivian squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys, vervets and gibbons.
www.monkeyland.co.za

The Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary
A great protection program for predators. www.jukani.co.za

Monkeyland, Birds of Eden & The Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary:
Lilizela Service Excellence Awards – Best Visitor Experience ‘Wildlife Encounters’
International Sustainable Tourism Award – Best Major Attraction
Winner of the ‘Best Animal Welfare Initiative’
Winner of the World Responsible Tourism Awards

Restaurant Tips

The Fat Fish /Plettenberg Bay (Awesome Seafood & Sushi)
Milkwood Centre, Hopwood St, Plettenberg Bay, 6600, South Africa, www.thefatfish.co.za

The Table Restaurant und Bar
(Gourmet pizza & pasta, DJ on Wednesdays + Fridays)
9 Main Street, Plettenberg Bay, 6600 South Africa, www.thetable.co.za

Nguni Restaurant
(Best traditional South African cuisine, for example, Bobotie, Biltong, Springbok and Ostrich)
6 Crescent Street, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape, 6600 South Africa,
www.nguni-restaurant.co.za

Ristorante Enrico
(Family friendly Italian directly on the ocean’s edge, great seafood and awesome views of dolphins and whales)
296 Main Street, Keurboomstrand, Plettenberg Bay, 6600 South Africa,
www.enricorestaurant.co.za

What we love

Being right in the middle of nature is just wonderful and the view from the room is magnificent! The Hog Hollow Country Lodge is a romantic hideaway ideal for families and couples. It is a great starting point for all kinds of sightseeing trips, hikes and activities along the Garden Route. The food is excellent and the service very friendly! We found our suite with our own fireplace extremely romantic and very special! The beach is just around the corner and you can relax wonderfully at the pool.

Another plus: Almost all the staff at the lodge are from the surrounding communities and they are trained regularly. The lodge has even received a prestigious accolade for fair and responsible tourism in South Africa (FTTSA).

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Rooms: 16 Suites, 1 Villa, 1 Country House
Transfer: From George Airport 130km (1 hour 40 minutes), from Port Elizabeth 220km (3 hours), Cape Town (525km) and Johannesburg (1177km)
Minibar: Well stocked, 1 bottle of wine included
Air Temperature: 7 – 26 degrees Celsius
Malaria: Malaria free
Best time to visit: December to April is high season, but with the romantic fireplaces and open fires you can easily also stay here May to August
Time shift: None
Price: From 120 EUR per person per night breakfast included. Children up to 12 from 43 EUR per night.
Specialties: Rich flora and fauna
Specifically for children: babysitting service, children’s books and CD’s, beach toys, boogie boards and flexible mealtimes
Special: 3 for the price of 2, stay 3 nights but only pay for two (valid from 1 May – 31 August)
Perfect for: couples, families, friends, nature and animal lovers

Hog Hollo Country Lodge
Askop Road, The Crags,
Plettenberg Bay
6602, South Africa
www.hog-hollow.com

Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa
Johansens Recommended
A Member of Portfolio Collection

Did you like this article? Then make our day and share it!

Note: During our stay we were partially supported by Hog Hollow Lodge. Thank you so much! The opinions expressed in this article is nonetheless 100% our own!

This journey was planned and organized by Silke Marshall Marketing Solutions. A heartfelt thank you! The visit to the Hog Hollow Country Lodge was part of the “Favorite Gourmet Self-Drive Journey”.

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Castle Münchhausen in Aerzen – a romantic Renaissance castle with perfect service

Europe, Germany, Honeymoon, Hotels, Restaurants, Spa, Wedding 0 Comments

A very special five-star hotel with outstanding cuisine and historical ambience

We visited this marvelous Renaissance castle in the wonderful Weser hill country in July. The huge château park with the wonderful sea terrace is a dream and takes you back to days long gone. The castle offers two 18-hole golf course, a driving range and a wide spa and wellness area with swimming pool, aroma steam bath, tepidarium and Finnish sauna.

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68 rooms and suites are divided between the main building and the nearby historical barn. All of them are of course generously designed and stylishly furnished. We stayed in one of the fashionable and more modern rooms in the Zehntscheune. The rooms of the main biding are designed in a more historical manner.

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The most extraordinary features are the hospitality, the very personal service of the house and the historical ambience.

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The breakfast was amazing! It is being presented in a very special manner and is very diverse with for example home-made jam. We have been really very delighted by the breakfast. And for us very important: The late riser breakfast can be taken until 12 o’clock! 🙂

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Unfortunately we have not been able to use the spa area with its very generous swimming pool for a long time, but it is really gorgeous and flooded with light through the huge glass ceiling.

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So anyone in search of a romantic and historic ambience with perfect service has come tot he right place here. We have very much enjoyed our stay here.

Recommendation: In this castle hotel you can also have a wonderful wedding party. The wedding planner tries hard to answer one’s wishes and to prepare the most beautiful day in your life. The service is exceptional and leaves nothing to be desired. And best of all: The guests can conveniently relax  in one of the in-house hotel rooms after a successful and unforgettable celebration.

Schloss Münchhausen
Schwöbber 9
31855 Aerzen
Telephone: +49 (0)5154 70600
info@schlosshotel-muenchhausen.com
www.schlosshotel-muenchhausen.com

Feine Privat Hotels

 

MerkenMerken

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Ca Maria Adele – one of the most romantic Boutique-Hotels of Venice

Europe, Honeymoon, Hotels 0 Comments
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Luxury, Romance and a lot of flair!

With the desire to spend some outstandingly romantic and classy days with Marcus in Venice I combed through the world wide web. Via websites as Tripadvisor or Mr. und Mrs. Smith I found the „Ca Maria Adele“, declared as the „most romantic and most luxurious hotel in europe“.

No need to keep you in suspense for any longer: You see it at a glance on these dreamlike pictures that I have taken in these happy days!  The Ca Maria Adele fulfilled all our desires!

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In this quiet quarter Dorsoduro, opposite of the Marcus-Square, the little intimate hotel lies in a palazzo of the 16th century.  Named after a neighbouring majestic church, the Ca Maria Adele adjoints the Canale della Salute. It can be reached quite quickly by travelling with the Vaporetto (1 stop: Salute) or, like us, with the Traghetto (5 min from the Marcus-Square, Traghetto Stops: Santa Maria del Giglio after Santa Maria della Salute).

The Vaporetto is a waterbus. A one-way-ticket, no matter how far, costs  7,- EUR. The Traghetto is a kind of  gondola, that brings you from one canal bank to the other side of the canal at certain places.  This way you can enjoy a gondola journey the cheapest way (One-way-ticket 2,- EUR).

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The twelve rooms of the hotel are furbished in a very individual an enchanting style.  Ancient furniture decorate the common rooms as the terrace, the lounge, the breakfastroom and the reception. A stunning and subtile stylistic accord between the several rooms of the hotel as well as the finest details.

The welcome could not be any better: Affectionate, in german and with an outstanding welcome-cocktail. Our highlight: without extra costs we received an upgrade of the concept-room „Sala del Doge“, with a wonderful view on the church Santa Maria Adele and the  Canale della Salute. You could not stop looking about all these charming details of the furbishment: at every glance a luscious royal red, golden embellishments and a very comfortable furnishment! A feudal nest with an own whirlpool for romantic hours to spend after an adventurous day in historical Venice.

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For dinner we were recommended to have it in the Hotel “Avogaria”, a restaurant of higher price range. (appetizer, main course, dessert, including water and Aperol Sprizz for two persons 80-100 EUR)

In the morning you can have your breakfast in bed, in the breakfast room or in the lounge or on the terrace. We did not thought about it for long and enjoyed our meal in bed!

And how thoughtful: Here you can have your breakfast until 12 o’ clock am.

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All in all we had a stay in Venice like in a storybook! So pittoresque and romantic with original venetian flair! The hotel as well as the restaurant, including the service and its location, all of it is highly recommended!

Ca Maria Adele – il mio preferito!

duration of our stay: 1 night
prices in march: 440 € on saturdays, 230 € (Double) on sundays
general evaluation: *****
characteristics: breakfast until 12 o’clock am | very personal service | extraordinary design and furbishment

CA MARIA ADELE
Dorsoduro 111
30123 – Venezia
Italia

T 0039 041 52 03078
F 0039 041 52 89013

info@camariaadele.it
http://www.camariaadele.it

2012 Luxury Boutique Hotel Award Winner by World Luxury Hotels Awards

2011 Award Winner as Most Romantic Hotel in Europe by Condé Nast Johansens

 

 

 

 

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Le Domaine de L’Orangerie – the Seychelles romantic pearl!

Africa, Honeymoon, Hotels, Indian Ocean, Seychelles, Spa, Wedding 0 Comments

La Digue`s best and most romantic hotel!

After 10 hours flight to Mahe, 20 minutes flight with Air Seychelles to Praslin and a 15 minutes ferry trip, Marcus and I finally arrived in heavenly La Digue. Pu!

In the little harbor town „La Passe“ hotel stuff drove us via little golf carts to the hotel. The hotel „Le Domaine“ is in the North of the island and with its 45 guestrooms a lovely place to relax. Refreshing tissue, a cold drink and warm hotel personnel sweetened our arrival.

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The personnel is a true enrichment fort the hotel and especially fort the guests: everybody is very nice and makes every effort to make the guests´ dreams come true. You can recognize that they love their job (that wasn`t the case at our second hotel „Hilton Labriz“). At Le Domaine you feel at home immediately. All the waiters are little talented linguists. Sometimes the personnel even danced while working – very pleasant. The relaxed personnel create the right atmosphere.

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The hotel has a beautiful beach. But La Digue is he island where the legendary Barcadi clip was made, so you definitely has to take a 20-30 minutes trip by bike to the famous Bacardi-beach „Anse Source d´Argent“! You can rent bikes at the hotel for free. So you can drive around and experience the normal life of the locals. There are almost no cars at La Digue.

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Dream beach “Anse Source d´Argent”

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Great Lounge area at the Pool

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Our sleeping and relaxing place was „Villas de Charme“ with terrace, outdoor pool and a spectacular sea view.  If you book an upgrade the “Villas de Charme Elegance” also have an outdoor-jacuzzi. And to pretend to much walking, they drive you around with little electric cars.

Villas de Charme are lovely tree houses in African/Asiatic style with much privacy. They are built into the edge of the rainforest. Everything is arranged generously so that you don´t even recognize your neighbors.

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The outdoor pool, the villa, the terrace, the bed with mosquito net, the turndown service with goodnight snack, the lovely little gifts and attention for detail – everything unique.

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Thanks to special light arrangements – a wonderful romantic atmosphere comes up at night.

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The great outdoor pool with shower!

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View from “Villa de Charme” 211

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„Rock Eden Spa”  is a wellness center that belongs to the hotel. It has a breathtaking sea view surrounded by La Digue´s granite rocks. The massages were super relaxing and very pleasant. The products they use are based on natural substances. The ventilator was a bit cold  but anyway Der „Rock Eden Spa” is definitely recommendable.

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At night everything is lighted by candles and torches. Annoying animation doesn´t exist. Just a wonderful calm unique atmosphere, some good singers or entertaining creole dancers.

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These cute little birds were our all morning breakfast guests. Other guests were annoyed but we loved them !

The hotel offers great and very varied food!  We were impressed especially by the Creolic kitchen. The „Red Snapper“ was a stranger to us, but now we can just recommend him – yummi, yummi! 🙂

10 /10.30 was breakfast time, 7 am – time for dinner. Every time ate we had a wonderful view to the Indian Ocean. Also it was possible to book a romantic dinner at the beach or at the pool.

The climate was wonderful, sometimes a little rainy in the morning or evening. During the day there is sunshine at 30° and around 25 °degrees at night. The locals’ recommendation is to visit the island in November.

Like I already said – the hotel service was unbeatable. Also the bottle of wine – you didn´t finish the night before, you can get back the next evening – that make the hotel simpatico and saves money ;). Le Domaine is very unique and a heavenly dream – a true romantic pearl. It was the most beautiful hotel on our journeys so far. I think this is the place where paradise is at home. La Digue, Le Domaine – we will definitely come back!

P.S. We had our dream marriage at the beach Anse Source d’Argent.

Air: 24 – 30 degrees
Water: 25 – 27 degrees
Best time to travel: October – November
Price: 6 = 7 Honeymoon-offer: 1 fruit basket at your room,  1 glass of Champagner, a 30- minute Manicure or Pedicure for the bride and a romantic candle-light-dinner.
Overall evaluation: *****
Specials: outstanding personal service | romantic atmosphere | most beautiful hotel on the island

Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie
Anse Sévère, La Digue, Seychelles
Tel : (00248) 4299 999
Fax : (00248) 4299 888
reservations@orangeraie.sc
www.orangeraie.sc

CONDE NAST TRAVELLER December 2011 – Lesser Spotted Seychelles :
« A very smart mini-resort »
CONDE NAST TRAVELLER December 2011 – Le Domaine’s Restaurant :
« The best place to eat on the island »
CONDE NAST TRAVELLER December 2011 – Lesser Spotted Seychelles :
« Excellent spa »
TRAVELMAG South Africa April 2011 – « Paradise at its best »
LE FIGARO February 2011 – Style & Vous : « Hôtel étonnant »
CLASS & RELAX Luxury Travel, Art and Lifestyle February 2011 –
« Combining elegance and zen refinement »
THE SUNDAY TIMES TRAVEL April 2010 – Seychelles : Where to stay :
« Best for Traditionalists »
ELLE MAGAZINE February 2010 – Top 10 des lunes de miel :
« Le 7ème Ciel aux Seychelles »
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Alte Mühle Thomas Höreth – exquisit wines and vineyard romanticism at the Moselle – Part 1

Europe, Germany, Hotels 0 Comments

30 years ago Thomas Höreth and his wife Gudrun have invested so much love and effort into the renovation of the old mill from the 11th century into a hotel and restaurant. The winding, with oleander overgrown half-timbered houses and the rustic cobbled streets take you with their wild, romantic flair back to times long gone. In several little houses you will find the differently furnished rooms. We stayed in the Fountain room – here classic and modern elements are being combined in a very intriguing manner.

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The bathroom is kept in elegant black and gold. A huge golden Baroque mirror and a spacious shower at ground level with stone tiles make up the tasteful ambience of the bathroom.

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The little details such as reading glasses and book add up to the very special atmosphere of this hotel.

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A walk up to the steep terrace vineyards with view on the Oder castle is worth it. Having reached the top, you can reward yourself in the restaurant with a glass of wine. 🙂

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The ambience in the restaurant is rustic, romantic and with is lovingly designed details very cozy. Here the numerous and excellent own wines of Thomas Höreth are being served.

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Pumpkin cream soup refined with orange and ginger as well as a mini pumpkin pie – simply delicious!

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Home-made poppy ice cream with hot plums – super tasty!

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The breakfast area of the hotel has been designed with a great attention to the detail. An own little house, furnished in great cottage style. The service was unique. Here every little desire is read fromyour eyes.

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Duration of our stay: one night
Price: from 210 EUR (double room)
Overall evaluation: *****
Special features: very rustic, cozy ambience | very friendly service

Alte Mühle Thomas Höreth
Mühlental 17
56330 Kobern-Gondorf
Tel: 02607 / 6474
info@thomas-hoereth.de
http://www.thomashoereth.de

Opening hours // Reservation is kindly requested.
Monday to Friday 5 pm to 12 pm
Saturday, Sunday, holidays 12 am to 12 pm

Here you can order from home Höreth´s wines.

 

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