An exclusive insight into the 'Mustique' of Africa

Blending seamlessly into its natural surroundings, Lengishu is a true labour of love. Minnie and Joe MacHale visited frequently during construction, ensuring every element of the design and finish reflected their unique vision. Drawing inspiration from the grandeur of Scotland, where the family has roots, and the rich heritage of Kenya, the result is as luxurious as it is environmentally conscious. Not wearing its green credentials on its sleeve, but subtly through timeless design and a sense of chic élégance, the Gstaad Guy himself would not feel out of place.

Completely secluded from the outside world, guests can enjoy uninterrupted use of Borana and Lewa conservancies, which share an open boundary and span an area almost as big as the Cotswolds. A bit like Mustique, Borana is run by its property owners, known as shareholders, each of whom owns a plot within the reserve, of which there are currently only five. Founded by third-generation Kenyans, the Dyer family, this was once a working ranch, relatively devoid of natural biodiversity. It is now possibly one of the most abundant nature reserves in East Africa, visited by a small number of discerning guests each year. A fair way from the coast, there’s no Macaroni Beach, but you may find a popular sundowner spot that you’ve probably heard of before. During their stay at Borana Lodge back in the ’80s, the creators of Disney were introduced to a rocky outcrop, locally known as The Frog. Standing on top, you can literally see for miles around (and everything the light touches). This magnificent lookout later inspired the iconic Pride Rock in the cartoon epic The Lion King.

Most of the profits generated by this exclusive collection of philanthropic lodges go towards protecting the wildlife and community that leaves its small number of well-heeled visitors in awe. Almost 200 critically endangered rhinos roam freely between the two conservancies but are restricted to the safety of its protected boundaries. “A rhino hasn’t been killed here in over 20 years,” explains Llewellyn Dyer, who manages the military style operation of anti-poaching scouts and rangers. “There are just a handful of wild rhino sanctuaries like this, but our vision is for many more to exist across Africa in the future.”

Lengishu is a cluster of uniquely designed suites; private sanctuaries in their own right. Each consists of spacious double bedrooms and a drawing room, complete with fireplace and kitchenette for late-night indulgences. The bathtubs, sculpted from solid copper, invite lingering soaks under the stars, water heated by energy from the hot African sun. At the heart of it all is the main house, a grand yet welcoming space where opulent dinners slip into fireside conversations late into the evening, under the sprawling African-thatched roof. A short walk away, past sweeping verandas and ornate foliage, lies the pool, gym and games room; places of indulgence, relaxation, and sumptuous lazy lunches that stretch long into the afternoons. Beyond that, a massage room is tucked away on the edge of a plateau, offering panoramic views across the conservancy to the soundtrack of hornbills and the occasional grumbling of elephants in the valley below. Perfect for family getaways or special celebrations with a group of close friends, it’s a true home away from home.

Lengishu (www.lengishu.com / +254 (0) 702 243 171) starts from £9,264 per person based on 6 people sharing - exclusive use of Lengishu across 6 suites, full board accommodation, including local airstrip transfers, all Borana Conservancy based activities. £849 for each additional adult. Minimum 3-night stay year round. Children of all ages are welcome, those under 5yrs stay free of charge.Bookings, flights, and transfers are arranged through Black Tomato Travel, who also offer a range of bespoke safari experiences across Kenya.

Interested in safari travel and Kenya? Read our articles on Sasaab and Offbeat Riding Safaris.