Mutanda Lake Resort

Ensconced by vegetation, Mutanda's setting is not one of garden landscaping, but of authentic wilderness. A hospitable one nonetheless, with wide, sloping lawns, broad furnished perches, perfectly placed jetties and plenty of spaces to steal into for privacy. The Swiss-chalet-style restaurant (with fireplace) is elevated, with views over the tree canopy and across the lake and serves meals whipped up from garden-fresh ingredients. Glass windows and doors span a whole side, but when the weather is pleasant you'll want to sit outside.

The lovely A-frame cottages feel like slender Swiss-meets-African chalets. They're set on the hillside with a steep staircase leading to the private veranda. Inside they are cosy but comfy, configured with two singles or a double bed, always draped with mosquito netting. Glass doors ensure plenty of natural light, and the en-suite bathrooms have piping-hot showers to wash off the jungle. Family rooms are a bit more spacious and hardily built, able to sleep three in a master bedroom and small adjoining room.