Lethabo Estate

TRIPADVISOR NO. 1 OF 5 B&BS/INNS, LANSERIA

This 60-hectare wild farm straddles the Crocodile River as it wends its way past tree-lined banks, which see the occasional otter at play. Into several private riverside nooks, owner Lise Essberger has built her hideaway cottages and picnic spots, ideal places to rekindle or ignite romance. She has grown it organically over 20 years, using local materials and talents, and offset the rough and rustic structures with sumptuous Persian rugs and pretty kelims, elegant lamps, original artworks, outdoor beds and double hammocks, baths big enough for two, loads of candles and, always, a private deck with a view. It’s incredibly romantic, with the constant backing track of the fast-flowing river; and Lise and her team perfectly balance pampering with privacy. The restaurant has a great reputation but I highly recommend ordering one of the gourmet picnic baskets and locking down for a night in your candlelit cottage.

ROOM TIP I loved Otter’s Hide (pictured below) – huge, with a fireplace, and a bath and shower built for two, both with views; I slept better here than I have in years. Rock Pool Lodge, which has a decadently large fish tank and gorgeous rock pool, can be booked with adjoining Stables Cottage for a bigger group.

COST From R1 695 pp sharing B&B.

CONTACT 087-151-1817, lethaboestate.com