Elements of raw stone, wood and wicker, overlooking a sparkling pool, and then a waterhole just beyond the safety fence where wildlife gather to slake their thirst. Both humans and animals are harmoniously co-existing and appreciating the vast and beautiful swathe of space they share. This is Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in the enchanting Eastern Cape.

Fort House is at the heart of the massive 22 000-hectare reserve, renowned for its authentic safari experiences founded on deep conservation foundations. The rugged landscape setting of Fort House is a magnificent natural contrast to the luxury of this contemporary exclusive-use villa. Because the villa grounds are fenced, it’s safe to wander around freely and enjoy the natural flow of inside-outside living. Swimming, sunning, chatting, chilling – and of course game viewing, though you will see plenty of wildlife while simply lounging at the pool and scanning the surrounding plains.

But do hop on a game drive with the whole family, accompanied by your private guide and in your dedicated game viewing vehicle. Savour the wilderness and serenity that comes from endless space – or experience diverse wildlife at ground level on guided nature and big game walks. The Big Five do live here, with a huge variety of other species too. There are also specialised safaris and plenty of captivating options for children of all ages to enjoy – from fishing and scavenger hunts, to kite building and more – while you enjoy a spa treatment or an interactive cooking experience with the chef.  Or simply read and nap for a while.

Serene Fort House is a space to rejuvenate body and soul. You’ll feel it immediately. It’s a very special place to enjoy with close friends or family. Best of all, everything is as you like it, when you like it. Time is all yours while you disconnect from the world for a while with those who matter most. Lazy days, game drives punctuated with sundowners and sunsets, fireside dinners and happy evening chats, star-spangled night skies and deep, refreshing sleep. And when the sun rises tomorrow and caresses the endless plains of Kwandwe, you can enjoy it all again. And then some.

Reviewed by Keri Harvey

What we love

• the sense of so much protected space around you
• such enjoyment in the whole family experiencing authentic safari and nature activities together
• seeing wildlife from Fort House, and in complete safety
• natural materials that beautifully create the modern, contemporary villa
• so many private spaces to relax and chill – from the study and spa room, to the gym deck, braai terrace and boma
• enjoying meals in enchanting outdoor venues, and listening to the sounds of the bush

Need to know

• Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is malaria free 
• the villa is not wheelchair friendly
• sleeps 8 in 4 double, en-suite rooms
• there are daily, scheduled flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth airport, 160km from Kwandwe. Charter flights to Kwandwe’s private air strip can be arranged on request.