In the know

Our favourite rooms: The three individually decorated suites all have gorgeous Oriental furnishings. The Red Room is contemporary, splashed with silks and framed kimonos, while its Gold counterpart has more of a classic feel. The honeymoon-ish Green Room has a double bathroom with twin Philippe Starck showers, palatial proportions and the most impressive view.
Packing tips: Take a birdwatcher’s guide so you’ll know an African fish eagle when you see one. There are some spectacular golf courses in the Western Cape area – a set of clubs would be handy.
Also: The wooden terrace leading down to the pool boasts a telescope for ogling otters frolicking on the lake or the colony of Vervet monkeys scampering in the manicured gardens.

Current offers

Smith card offer: Free picnic and transport to a local marine reserve beach

Ichibi Lakeside Lodge

Garden Route & Winelands, South Africa[view map]

Style: Africa welcomes the Orient
Setting: Lush Langvlei lakeside

SAFARI COLLECTION Ichibi suns itself on South Africa’s Southern Cape. Inside, the former plantation estate’s decor conjures the mystique of the ancient Orient. Outside, it’s surrounded by postcard-perfect rolling green hills. Sumptuously good-looking, with a passion for hospitality, Ichibi Lakeside Lodge is an ideal choice for golfers, nature-lovers, or couples in search of the perfect sunset.

Need to know

Rooms: Three suites.
Rates: R950 – R1,900, including breakfast; excludes VAT at 14 per cent. 30 per cent reductions in low season.
Check-out: 11h.
Facilities: Airport transfers, gym, extensive DVD, music and book libraries, internet, parking, braai barbecue. In-room amenties: mini-fridge, air-conditioning, satellite TV, tea/coffee facilities.
Poolside: The decked, heated pool has unforgettable views over Langvlei Lake.
Hotel closed: 1 July to 31 August.
Also: Suites are non-smoking.

Food & drink

Hotel restaurant: Although Ichibi Lodge labels itself a bed and breakfast, owner Linda Els can cook up a lunchtime or evening feast at the drop of a sun hat.
Dress code: Cooling casuals; kimonos optional.
Top table: Breakfast on the terrace and let the sweeping vista of mountains and lake wash over you.
Last orders: Dinner can be arranged between 19h and 21h; snacks are available at any time.
Hotel bar: The lodge’s honesty bar is fully stocked and offers the relaxed sophistication of a piano bar – with a much better view.

Other facilities

Children: This hotel is better suited to couples - leave the children at home!

Smith card offer

Free picnic and transport to a local marine reserve beach

If you're a member of Mr & Mrs Smith, you can get special privileges at every Smith hotel you book through us. Just show your Smith card at check-in to claim the offer featured on every hotel page (like the one above).

Click here to become a Mr & Mrs Smith member

Smith concierge

If you’d prefer to talk to someone, or you’re having trouble booking online, ring our travel team on 0845 034 0700 (+44 20 8987 4312 from outside the UK). We guarantee you’ll get the best available rates, and we don’t charge a booking fee.