Carved into the banks of the Sand River that bisects South Africa’s Sabi Sand Reserve, Singita Boulders is made for lovers. Honeymooners, yes, who fold into their enormous, glass-walled suites or lounge in private plunge pools, but nature lovers, foodies, oenophiles, design aficionados and seasoned escape artists, too. The younger sibling to Singita’s original Ebony lodge, Boulders takes its name and monochromatic palette from the time worn rocks scattered across the grounds, though the celebrated interior design feels wholly modern. An oversize fireplace, walls of stacked stones and an installation-like pillar of gathered wood and woven rattan define the thatch-roof main lodge. All the modern comforts (four-poster beds, separate living areas, tubs for two and furnished decks with private plunge pools) are present, but the real ornamentation is left to nature—Singita’s 45,000 acres framed in full walls of glass. Beyond these sumptuous amenities, the real star of this show is the wildlife. First- and fiftieth-time guests alike will be astonished by the diversity of wildlife here, from hyena and hippo to elephant, cheetah and much more; the open-top 4×4 jeeps make you feel even closer to the action.

FOUNDED BY WORLD RENOWNED WILDLIFE FILMMAKERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS, PHOTOGRAPHY IS CENTRAL TO THE GREAT PLAINS CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE. The camps are perfect for any level of photographer from professional to committed hobbyist to novice. From the Selinda Reserve’s herds of elephants, to sunrises over the Zambezi River at Sapi Explorers Camp to ol Donyo’s Lodge two photographic hides, perfectly placed in front of a water hole that draws some of the regions last “big tusker” elephants, our camps are a photographers dream!

Few properties in the Cape Winelands have opened with as much hoopla as the Delaire Graff Estate, unveiled in 2009 by diamond magnate Laurence Graff. Graff bought the estate in 2003 and spent years—and millions—transforming it into a luxury property worthy of its spectacular high-altitude setting atop the Helshoogte Mountain Pass, which separates the towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The result is a gorgeous resort with world-class everything, from the prodigious wine cellar (ask for a tasting) and the spacious guest rooms with plunge pools to the serious art collection. There are two restaurants, a spa, an infinity pool, a charming boutique called 100% Capri that sells home decor and, bien sur, the flagship Graff diamond salon. Guest rooms are spread among ten cottages (called “lodges”), all of them with chic, urban furniture in a cool gray palette. Private plunge pools and decks make the most of the sweeping views. One of the loveliest things to do is to stroll along the paved pathway that runs through the vineyard. On your right side are row upon row of impeccably planted grapevines (Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc), the varietals changing with the elevation; on your left side is a cavernous valley with breathtaking views over the countryside.

Liz Biden–the visionary behind multiple standout South African properties–has become known for her immaculately designed ‘six-star’ hotels, and Birkenhead House is no exception. Originally the Biden family’s beach house, the property is located two hours from Cape Town, in Hermanus, the charming fishing village once called the ‘town of champagne air’ after its delightfully crisp sea breezes. With just 11 elegantly appointed rooms, Birkenhead House evokes the feeling of staying in a chic friend’s beach house. Rooms pay homage to the seaside location with coastal-themed décor, lemon-yellow painted walls and exposed white beamed ceilings, along with Liz Biden’s signature baroque touches and luxuriously large bathrooms. Combining oriental rugs with shell-lined artwork and quirky antique furniture, the designer has a knack for throwing different styles together and somehow making everything work perfectly. We're looking forward to our Stay!

Created in 2013, the wine tram in Franschoek allows us to travel to many different vineyards while staying in South Africa. We'd be honored if you contributed to one of the few tastings. We currently have Rickety Bridge and La Grande Provence on our list.