12 minute read
African adventure
Untouched Africa
Luxe uncovers Africa’s best kept secret at an eco-lodge on the serene shores of Lake Malawi
No trip to Africa comes without adventure. An opportunity to discover a lost world, explore colourful culture and step into a lifestyle like no other. Travellers looking to dive into the unknown with no compromise on luxury, should take a trip to Nkwichi Lodge, an inspiring, community-driven eco-lodge. A happy place. A halcyon paradise hidden on the fresh white shores of Lake Malawi. An undisturbed, natural landscape in all its beauty. This wild and wonderful haven offers a unique taste of Africa, with unparalleled tranquility at every touch point. You’ll experience five-star service from start to finish, but you’ll also be exposed to the fabric of local life by the lake. It’s a ‘real’ place. A place rooted in its surroundings. A place connected with the local community, but also with travellers looking to learn on location. This place is all about conserving the pristine lakeshore in which it operates. Nkwichi Lodge invites guests to revel in the breathtaking wilderness and experience Lake Malawi’s colourful culture; and therefore
leaving an imprint of authentic Africa in the hearts of those who have stayed on the site. From the design and build, to the day-today running of the lodge, Nkwichi has always engaged with local Nyanja people - linking everything back to the immediate surroundings, the community and the people that make this special paradise tick. It’s the friendly faces, the laid back lifestyle and the community focus that sets a place apart from the next. And Nkwichi Lodge really does have something special… something the ‘people of the lake’ are passionate about sharing with travellers far and wide. Nkwichi is an idyllic setting to discover the wild and wonderful African landscape - a lost world surrounded by fresh waters and an oasis of glorious green woodland. Sitting in a peaceful position on the Rift Valley coastline, Nkwichi is a passion project between two brothers, Patrick and Paul Simkin. The story started back in 1994 after a discussion about development issues in Africa. The outcome was a proposed tourism initiative bringing revenue to an area in need of the benefits of modern development.
Nkwichi at a glance >> Living…
A chance canoeing expedition brought the pair to a beach known by local fisherman as ‘Mchenda Nkwichi’ or ‘squeaking sands’ - named after the sound of footprints in the sand. They had discovered a hidden paradise, portraying everything that should be celebrated about authentic Africa. Beautiful waters, a luscious landscape and a community built on culture and conservation. It was the perfect project. The Nkwichi name stuck, and shorty after, the paradise was brought to life with the help of local craftsmen, materials and a willingness to share this humble, lakeside home with the wider world. In the last 15 years, the lodge’s construction has gone from strength to strength, as has the community surrounding it, something the area is immensely proud of. Nkwichi Lodge has become a catalyst for the Manda Wilderness Project - a far-reaching bid to help people in the area enjoy the benefits of modern development - including the result of tourism. To put it into perspective, the Manda Wilderness Project has positively affected the lives of 20,000 people and helped ensure the preservation of one of Africa’s most beautiful areas. The lodge is deeply rooted in ‘responsible tourism’ - a hot topic in the current travel market. It’s all about bringing communities together to help use the environment and resources to create sustainable, educational and inspiring tourism. The Simkin family and the Nkwichi Lodge team are proud members of Pack for a Purpose - an initiative that allows travellers to make a lasting impact on the community. The idea is that guests spare a little space in their suitcase to bring supplies for an initiative in need - making a priceless impact on the lives of local children and families. What is so special about Nkwichi Lodge is that, as a traveller, not only are you exploring a new place, but you are directly impacting the local community. You are buying into the beauty of such a place, and the people living in it are creating unique experiences for you in return. nkwichi.com
Nkwichi is an eco hideaway offering a place to retreat and relax, but also plenty of opportunity to explore and embrace local culture; making it the ideal spot for honeymooners to find the perfect balance between laid-back luxury and adventure. The full lodge is also available to hire as a base for families and larger groups. Accommodation is spread across chalets and private houses. The chalets are tucked away in the tree-line - each individually designed using local materials to blend in with the serene surroundings. Built in the rocks, the chalets offer the ultimate sanctuary - a retreat from the rest of the world - complete with handcrafted furniture, rock-pool baths under the stars and mesmerising lake vistas. The private houses are designed for larger groups and families and can come complete with a personal chef and guest services team, as well as private beaches, open-plan living areas and undisturbed lake views.
Eating…
When it comes to food, the focus is on fresh, local produce. Catch-of-theday fish is served daily, alongside a vibrant mix of local fruit and vegetables, grown organically on a nearby farm. Everything is natural and nourishing, and guests are sure to get a real taste of traditional African cuisine, with a contemporary twist. There is no dinner schedule in place at Nkwichi. Guests can eat wherever they want, whenever they want; whether it’s a beach picnic, a romantic moonlit dinner in the trees or sunrise breakfast in the comfort of your own house or chalet.
Enjoying…
If Nkwichi’s natural beauty isn’t enough, there’s plenty to keep adventure-seekers busy on site. Stroll along secluded bays, enjoy untouched beaches, stargaze from your rock-pool bath and dip in the crystal clear waters where beautifully bright and yet-to-be-discovered, tropical fish call home. A Robinson Crusoe paradise packing in plenty of on-site and off-site activities, including wildlife walks following the tracks of leopards, paddle boarding on the lake and viewpoint expeditions with farreaching views over Malawi. So, whether a lazy afternoon in a hammock, whiling away the hours and getting lost in a book is for you, or you’d prefer to lace up your trainers and hike towards woodland and waterfalls, there’s something for everyone at Nkwichi Lodge. As day turns to night and the sun sinks into the horizon, guests are invited to switch their gaze to the sky with Nkwichi’s ‘Lake of Stars Bed’ - an unforgettable experience set up on a deserted beach surrounded by breathtaking baobabs. Switch off beneath the stars and get lost in the wonders of an African night-sky.
UK GETAWAY:
GRANTLEY HALL
Elysia Fryer finds bliss at the gorgeous Grantley Hall – where first-class hospitality has Yorkshire at its heart
LOCATION >> It’s a ‘wow’ first impression as we pull up at the ornate entrance gates – greeted with a smile and guided along the sweeping drive to the imposing, Grade II* Listed Grantley Hall. The drive through the grounds and towards the building feels like something you’d see in a Hollywood flick. A gracious hall set in rolling countryside, wrapped in enchanting woodland along the River Skell. It’s picture-perfect and it is Yorkshire at its very finest. Grantley is reflective of its surroundings; sitting between the cultural cathedral city of Ripon and the quaint, country market town of Pateley Bridge. It’s a refined, regal getaway with country charm at its heart. The A1(M) is just a 15-minute drive, with Harrogate reachable in under 30-minutes. This luxurious stately mansion sits on the fringe of the Dales and Yorkshire’s Golden Triangle. It’s a hotspot for all of what Yorkshire has to offer, making it the ultimate base for exploring the county or simply sitting back, relaxing and revelling in proper Yorkshire hospitality.
something truly unique. Each and every room is expertly designed to offer something refreshingly different. You’ve got the old-world glamour of Valeria’s Champagne & Cocktail Bar, the stately home sophistication of Shaun Rankin’s fine-dining restaurant, and the laid-back luxe feeling of the Three Graces Spa Lounge. Everywhere you turn you’ll find mood-lifting scents, stunning scenery and opulent interiors reflective of the location – all with modern grandeur in mind. This Relais & Châteaux hotel has undergone years of renovation work, and the results really are exquisite. Communal relaxation areas inject bold colours, funky furnishings and chunky coffee table books, while formal dining areas offer something really special. The building boasts two main areas – the main Hall and the Fountains Wing. Our suite is found in the new-build Fountains Wing, where the rich colours, columns and panels are replaced with light open spaces, olive trees, French chateaux-style benches, marble floors and blue-sky views overhead. The first-floor atrium leads to the Fountains Wing suites – and it’s a tranquil oasis in itself.
Grantley is grand, gracious and guarantees something truly unique. Each and every room is expertly designed to offer something refreshingly different
of activities, facilities and dining opportunities available across the site. The Three Graces Spa is a great place to start. Complete with a magnificent marble-clad swimming pool, an indooroutdoor hydro pool, hot tub, snow room, panoramic sauna and luxury steam room, it’s a hotel hideaway where time stands still, and tranquility comes first. A place to pause and connect with the here and now. There are plenty of Natura Bisse and ila products and treatments available, as well as beautifully designed communal areas for those ‘drifting away from the everyday’ moments. The hall’s ELITE Luxury Gym is also worth a visit, where guests can reconnect with the body and the mind. Whether it’s a one-to-one session, morning yoga or a DIY fitness class using state-of-the-art equipment, there’s plenty to ensure wellness comes first.
LAY YOUR HEAD >> The friendly faces of Grantley Hall will ensure your stay is as comfortable and stress-free as possible as soon as you step foot through the gates. Everyone from the porter and reception staff, to the spa therapists and restaurant hosts are clued up on any questions you may have. Plenty of good Yorkshire chat and
smiling faces. There’s no formal check-in service here, which always comes with a warm welcome. The porters know who we are on arrival and gently guide us straight to our suite via the Fountains Wing atrium. We’re whisked into our plush pad, a bottle of champagne is waiting on ice and we’re introduced to our room’s first-class facilities. Think TVs hidden behind paintings, touch-button lighting, electric blinds, homemade sloe gin and a bathrobe menu. You name it, this suite has it. The room’s design combines country-house style with Gatsby glamour. A light and natural palette with glitzy touches in the form of stunning Italian marble bathroom suites, French-style windows with farreaching vistas over the grounds, and fresh linen that makes you feel like you’re floating on a cloud. An early evening turndown service means your room is ready for your return as the night draws in– complete with pillow mist, daily hotel newsletter and inspiring quotes to instil positive thoughts as you drift off.
FOOD AND DRINK >> Michelin-starred chef, Shaun Rankin, is at the helm. He has returned to his roots to bring Yorkshire-inspired fine-dining to Grantley. His ‘Chef’s Table’ is a must-try experience, sitting at the heart of the engine room, seating six guests. Signature dishes include Yorkshire rhubarb, venison loin and fig leaf parfait. Fletchers Restaurant is the hotel’s sophisticated all-day dining hotspot, serving British classics with a contemporary, European twist. Norton Bar & Courtyard is a great spot for early evening tipples and after-dinner drinks. Here you’ll find modern opulence mixed with the original oak panelling of a traditional, 18thcentury mansion. Pops of colour and funky furnishings bring the bar bang up to date. Pair this with an indulgent espresso martini and you’re set for the night! East meets west over at EightyEight – a pan-Asian paradise serving an eclectic mix of city dining within picture-perfect Yorkshire scenery. Think clinking glassware, a buzzy vibe and low-lit dining as exotic flavours are brought to life in tapas-style feasting. Valeria’s Champagne & Cocktail Bar - sitting at the top of the stairs above EightyEight - is perfect for glamorous get-togethers and stylish sipping, with a live jazz soundtrack every Friday and Saturday night. Spa-goers can enjoy healthy and nutritious light bites and drinks in the elegant Three Graces Spa Lounge – a space designed
to energise, enhance and enlighten. Our Grantley getaway comes to a close with a hearty Yorkshire breakfast in Fletchers Restaurant.
DO THIS >> Grantley Hall is a glorious base for exploring all that Yorkshire has to offer – be it a stroll through a North Yorkshire market town, or an adventure into the Dales. With Ripon, Pateley Bridge and Harrogate all within easy reach, there’s plenty to keep exploring guests busy. Families can enjoy the great outdoors at Fountains Abbey and Newby Hall, while culture-lovers can get to grips with Ripon’s Cathedral, museums and bustling market square. Guests struggling to peel themselves away from the grandeur of Grantley, have plenty to keep them busy. Throw on some wellies from reception and stroll through the Japanese garden, let off some steam with woodland walks and get your camera kit out for some picture-perfect snapping in the pristine parkland. Other experiences include bespoke spa packages, wine tasting, wellness days and plenty of luxurious coffee table books to get stuck into in the library lounge.
