Drawing inspiration from its surroundings, Lolebezi occupies a prime location along the Zambezi River in perhaps the best spot in Zambia – the Lower Zambezi National Park. A raw and untamed landscape, it’s famed for its buffalo and elephant sightings as well as lion, leopard and hyena (and there are no enclosures or fences, so the animals roam freely).

Marrying all the sophistication of a luxury lodge with a sense of being down-to-earth, Lolebezi is comprised of glass and wood with natural colours elevated inside (think greens paired with gold). Inside, local furnishings complement the surrounding landscape whilst outside, loungers overlook the riverside (it feels as if you’re practically floating on the Zambezi). Also outside, the infinity pool blends seamlessly into the river and a fire pit provides the ideal spot for a post-dinner drink.

With just six suites in total, you’ll feel truly nestled in the heart of the bush. Each eco-friendly lodge features a sitting room, an indoor and outdoor shower and dining room. Relax on your private deck beside the plunge pool as you watch elephants drinking from the Zambezi.

Thanks to the variety of landscape (think grassland, miombo scrub and thickets of ebony, fig, winterthorn and mahogany) and water flowing freely year-round, there’s always animals about grazing. Head out on foot to spot the elephants splashing about in these waters, leopards dozing on high branches, and packs of wild dog. Or, cover more ground on a game drive to catch sight of the local lion prides.