JOURNEYS TO COME As the world continues its lockdown, there is no better time to plan a life changing trip to mark the end of isolation. We are looking to the future with a spirit of optimism and perseverance – travel will return, and when it does, we will be ready. In the meantime, you can contact our experts to design your dream holiday, which can be embarked upon just as soon as it is safe to travel again. From up-close wildlife encounters to far-flung beaches and epic mountain ranges, these are just a handful of incredible experiences that will inspire and provide something and somewhere to look forward to.
SLEEP UNDER THE STARS IN KENYA Perched on the edge of a dramatic 6,000-foot-high escarpment in the Loisaba Conservancy, Elewana Loisaba Star Beds promise an exhilarating experience in one of Kenya’s biggest stretches of wilderness. While wildlife such as big cats, wild dogs and elephants are a key draw to Loisaba, it is also a prime place from which to witness the magnificent night sky. Set on raised wooden platforms fitted with an open-air bathroom, a thatched dining area and firepit, the four poster “Star Beds” are wheeled out each night, allowing you to spend a night under the vast African sky while tucked up under a feather duvet. As the sun sinks, gaze at the canopy of stars above and spot constellations and planets before drifting off to sleep, only to be woken by the sound of hipposbathing in the waterhole the following morning. During the day, we can arrange activities to explore and learn about the conservation work at the reserve through game drives, mountain biking, horse-riding, camel trekking and bush walks with a traditional Samburu guide. For a unique cultural insight, spend an afternoon at the local Masai Village.
DISCOVER HIDDEN MONASTERIES IN THE BHUTAN HIMALAYAS Best known for its focus on ‘gross national happiness’, there are few places more beguiling than the monasterystrewn mountains of Bhutan. We invite you to explore the heartlands of this pristine and undiscovered Himalayan kingdom while staying at Amankora lodges, some of the most exclusive hotels in the world. Five distinct lodges are dotted around the country’s central and western regions, with each one set against a spectacular backdrop of plunging valleys, lush rice paddies, or fields of buckwheat. Itineraries can be tailor-made to suit any preference, and our team can put together a programme of mountaintrekking, temple-hopping, or spa pampering.
TRACK GORILLAS AND EXPLORE THE VOLCANIC MUSANZE CAVES IN RWANDA Venture into a true African wilderness with a stay at Bisate Lodge, located in a natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone close to the Volcanoes National Part in northern Rwanda. With surrounding dramatic views of volcano peaks and dense rainforests, you can hole up in one of the six thatched nest-like villas. A short drive takes guests to the starting point of the gorilla trek, which promises the chance to spot golden monkeys as well as spend time with gorilla troops. Beyond the incredible thrill of meeting gorillas, we can organise cultural visits to local villages, the lava tunnels of the Musanze Caves, Dian Fossey’s grave and the twin lakes of Buhondo and Burera. The Lodge’s keen enthusiasm for conversation means you will also be have the opportunity to participate in biodiversity conservation efforts and engage with and meet the local community, in addition to learning about the iconic critically endangered mountain gorilla.
TEA, SEA AND SAFARI IN SRI LANKA A verdant teardrop island of tea plantations, thick jungles, golden coasts and UNESCO World Heritage sites, Sri Lanka has it all. We have curated a journey to showcase the best the country has to offer, with an eight-night Tea, Sea and Surf adventure. Begin by venturing inland to the lush Hill Country and stay at Ceylon Tea Trails to spend time learning about the journey from leaf to cup before exploring the area on foot. From here, transfer to Wild Coast Tented Lodge where luxurious canvas tent ‘cocoons’ will be your home. Spend days heading out on game drives with expert naturalist guides to spot elusive leopards, learn about the incredible diversity of flora and fauna in the park and observe the behaviour of native wild elephants. The trip finishes further along the coast at Cape Weligama, a relaxed cliff-edge getaway where blissful days can be spent swimming in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean or exploring the rambling lanes of historic Galle.
EMBRACE TUSCAN GRANDEUR WITH A WEEKEND IN A 12TH CENTURY CASTLE Hidden among the rolling hills of Tuscany lies COMO Castello del Nero, a 12th century castle set within a 740acre historic estate. The one-time residence of a noble Florentine family, this fairytale hotel is the epitome of old world Tuscan grandeur, with vaulted ceilings, marble and mosaic bathrooms and mediaeval frescoes evocative of the castle’s magnificent past. Situated in the heart of the Renaissance countryside, it is just a short hop from the urban gems of Florence and Siena, or stay within the sprawling estate for cooking classes, hot air balloon rides, picnics in the vineyards and truffle hunting. In addition to an organic garden which produces food for the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, La Torre, the estate has its own beehives, olive groves and vineyard, with private tastings available. To truly relax, the signature COMO Shambhala Retreat spa features revitalising thermal suites, ice fountains and a tranquilly lounge.