BUSHMANS KLOOF WILDERNESS RESERVE

Western Cape, South Africa ‘Wilderness by name, wilderness by nature. You can’t help but soften into a sense of peaceful remoteness at Bushmans Kloof. Nestled in 17,000 acres of astonishingly beautiful landscape and surrounded by dramatic mountains, I was in the middle of nowhere. As a hard-wired Londoner, it took me a while to adjust to the stillness, but the patchy wi-fi and sense of calm that seemed to float on the breeze soon helped me to disconnect from modern life. In fact, everything about my stay reconnected me to nature, from dawn jeep drives, where I spotted zebras, antelopes and ostriches, to sunset yoga by the water reserve with flamingos flying overhead. Then there’s the pretty walled garden I wandered through that grows the fruit and vegetables for my delicious, seasonal meals – some of which are served outdoors, picnic style. The spa experience makes use of the picturesque surroundings, and the panoramic view from my massage table, neatly housed in a traditionally thatched-roof gazebo, is one of the most breathtaking I’ve ever seen. And it’s all accompanied by the singing of actual birds, rather than a soundtrack. Native and locally sourced ingredients, such as rooibos tea and baobab tree oil, are used in the B African treatment products, echoing the reserve’s commitment to sustainability (to avoid wasting energy, its Crystal Steam Room is only turned on when needed). The no-noise policy (gardeners are asked to down tools during treatments) means you really can zone out, too. Here, it’s impossible not to turn down your own volume and relax because the reserve is just so tranquil, except for those birds. Blue crane alarm call at 6am? Magical.’ Caroline Brien

RED NOTE Thoughtful details, such as the watercolour painting sets and yoga mat in your room, encourage you to switch off. Cox & Kings offers South Africa itineraries from £2,965pp (two sharing). The trip includes two nights’ B&B accommodation at The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa outside Cape Town plus three nights full board at Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, return flights from London to Cape Town and car hire (coxandkings.co.uk)