Elephant House, Addo – Where the Orchards Meet the Wild

Six-and-a-half hours after a sentimental farewell to Montagu, Route 62 unspooled through some of the most fascinating, desert-like scenery in South Africa before giving way to the citrus heartland of the Eastern Cape. Hectares of lush green orchards, sweet and heady with scent, stretch out on either side, broken only by quiet farm roads that seem to lower your pulse simply by existing. It's a peaceful, deeply rural part of the country – one that feels far more connected to the land than to the tourist trails, and to me – a lot more like Africa.

From the second we arrived at Elephant House, it felt as though we’d stepped into another era. The beautifully maintained country manor, with its sweeping thatched roof, wide verandas, elegant little fountains and lush gardens, exudes timeless charm. Rather than feeling formal and colonial, the property has an inviting warmth that instantly puts you at ease.

The communal spaces don't so much invite lingering as make it difficult to leave – lounges stacked with books and board games, candlelight beginning its work at dusk, a welcome drink by the fountain that turns into two, and a pool left to its own reflections until summer.

Our suite was beautifully appointed – a four-poster bed, elegant furnishings, soft robes tucked into the wardrobe. Next door, the adjoining room kept the boys just as happy, with their own beds, a small lounge, beanbags and a chalkboard little ones would love.

One of the greatest strengths of this place is its people. Every member of staff was gracious, warm and attentive, delivering the kind of genuine hospitality that makes a stay extra special.

Breakfast quickly became one of the highlights of our stay – homemade muesli, creamy yoghurt and fresh seasonal fruit to start, followed by an extensive à la carte menu of beautifully prepared dishes with a subtle African influence. We didn't get to try lunch on this visit, though it's on offer for guests wanting a leisurely afternoon at the lodge between game drives.

One evening we dined at Molo Lolo, a nearby restaurant with a story so remarkable it earned its own feature elsewhere in this series. If you're staying anywhere near Addo, it's an absolute must-do.

What makes Elephant House so unique – besides its proximity to Addo Elephant National Park – is the unmistakable sense of peace. Surrounded by sun-drenched orchards, wide-open countryside and dusty, quiet farm roads, it offers a glimpse into a slower, gentler way of life. It feels like one of those rare places where you can truly switch off and experience the rhythm of rural South Africa.