Leobo Private Reserve, Waterberg

Overlooking the Palala Valley in South Africa, Leobo is a luxuriously chic exclusive-use private reserve offering incredible views of the vast grasslands – with all the African wildlife you could ask for. Whether you want to unwind by the pool or try something a bit more exhilarating, such as a quad bike safari, Leobo has the whole package. You can choose to stay in either the Lodge, which sleeps up to 18 in eight cottages, or the Observatory, which sleeps up to nine in a state of the art house designed by award-winning architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, and even includes your own personal butler. With a private chef to cook you incredible dishes to your taste – it’s up to you whether you eat inside, outside or at one of several locations in the bush here and that only adds to the magic if you ask us.

Location

Situated in the heart of the Waterberg region of South Africa, Leobo is settled in 12,000 acres of breathtaking African wilderness, in a Malaria free private reserve. If the three-hour road trip from Johannesburg doesn’t appeal, just hop on a helicopter and you’ll be dropped off in just under an hour.

Your room

The eight cottages of the Lodge have beautifully furbished bedrooms – think dark wood, thatched roofs and crisp white linens – rustic African opulence. The lodge comes with its own Boma; a true African dining experience, with delicious fire-roasted food, perfect for relaxing at the end of your day with a glass of South African wine. Each cottage has an en-suite bathroom and private deck, and both the Lodge and Observatory have their own private swimming pool overlooking the reserve. Our favorite though has to be the Observatory, which sleeps up to nine people and is ideal for large families, where, as night time falls, you can nip up to your own automated observatory that’s the perfect spot for stargazing.

Why we like it

For those wanting to get up close to nature, try Hippo camping. Spending the night in a four man tent on top of a huge handcrafted tree house above the Hippo dam, you’ll indulge in a typical South African braai around a roaring fire pit while you watch the Hippos wallow in the water. Though, if sleeping with the Hippos isn’t quite up your street, try a starlight safari with local astronomer Dr Phil Calcot. With virtually no light pollution the views of the night sky are simply awe-inspiring.