Fodor's Expert Review Spionkop Lodge

This lovely secluded lodge, with the spectacular Drakensberg Mountains as a backdrop, lies in a 700-hectare (1,730-acre) nature reserve and is a perfect base for touring the battlefields, discovering the mountains and rock art, birding, or looking for big game. Choose between full board or self-catering accommodations in colonial-style chalets with all the modern conveniences. Take a battlefield tour with engaging owner-host and raconteur, Raymond Heron (or his son Alastair); enjoy a game drive where you could spot buffalo, giraffe, rhino, and antelope in the neighboring Spioenkop Nature Reserve; go on a birding safari (over 270 species to be spotted); and don’t miss a sundowner cruise on the peaceful dam.