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The lush, impeccably-tended grounds of Summerfield Botanical Gardens make an elegant spot to tarry on a tour through the mountain kingdom of Swaziland. It sits at the top of the pile of hotels and lodges in the country with a statuesque air and a range of facilities, from bars and restaurants to bistros and lounges. The real cheery on top, however, is the grounds - stuffed full of indigenous plants and trees, they are tranquil, juicy and ideal to laze in.
From $50 person/night
The African-inspired architecture melds beautifully with the botanical gardens. Everywhere – literally, everywhere you look –is an Instagrammable frame.
The Dove's Nest is ideal for a large family or a few couples travelling together. You can keep to yourselves while enjoying all the spoils of the greater hotel.
This is a high-end spot with loads of amenities, much like a resort. If you're wanting something a bit more quaint and provincial, this spot may not be your bag.
There are plenty of communal spaces and dining options to suit your style throughout the day, whether you'd like to enjoy an alfresco breakfast, swanky cocktails or post-dinner drinks. Choose the Red Feather Pool Bar for an informal bite next to the multi-level swimming pool, or done your glad rags and head to the Palm Cascades Restaurant, an elegant dining option complete with white tablecloths and candelabras. There's another bistro or two but the gardens themselves make the ideal place for a picnic or sip a glass of champagne.
Choose from four classes of accommodation at Summerfield, all of which are characteristically elegant. Garden Villa Suites are the most sumptuous and have two king-sized beds, a separate lounge and dining area and private patio with plush loungers. Executive Suites have a spacious living room adjoining a large bedroom and the Doves Nest is the stand-alone cottage, full of character and charm. The double-storey house has three en-suite bedrooms and a large veranda. Luxury Suites sleep two guests (and have two enormous double beds!) and open directly on to the garden.
Swaziland offers a glut of adventure activities for the adrenaline-hungry, from paragliding and abseiling, to river rafting, tubing and caving. Or if you're in the mood for a slower pace, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are alternative modes of exploration. Closer to home, take a walk through the fruit orchards of Summerfield or wander the extensive tropical gardens. Then refresh with afternoon tea and a smorgasbord of home-baked goodies.