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The summer is one of the key moments of the year to focus on quality family time. Family vacations are occasions to create memories to last a lifetime, especially staying at an exceptional and enchanting destination. From floating overwater in Panama to exciting African safaris and from discovering culture and history in Italy to exploring the great outdoors in Canada, our award-winning villa experts have the perfect adventurous summer holidays that will marvel the whole family.

Big Timber Chalet, Whistler BC, Canada

Your family’s days will be packed with thrilling outdoor activities at this phenomenal chalet in one of Canada’s premier mountain resorts, available through our expert Sylvia Delvaille Jones of Villas and Apartments Abroad.

Situated at the end of a private lane and encircled by virgin forest, the 7,500 sq ft Big Timber offers privacy while being right next to the resort. Six of the seven bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms and the open concept living room, kitchen and dining room is the gather together and enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the mountains and forest. There is also plenty of outdoor living space with terraces, firepits and private outdoor hot tubs.

“The stunning location in beautiful British Columbia offers a vast range of activities from the tame to the very daring,” says Sylvia. “What’s great is that each family can piece together the right combination of both rugged, daring, fun, and experiences tailored to the level of daring the family can endure.”

Popular outdoor adventures include zipline trekking, whitewater rafting, mountain biking down the slopes, fishing, hiking through the forests, ATV and Rzr touring. There’s also the Blackcomb Adventure zone, ideal for younger children and Sylvia can land a helicopter on an ice cave glacier for lunch and a hike. Over the course of your trip you are bound to spot some birds… and possibly even some bears… from a distance! Back at the chalet kids can let loose playing a game of table tennis or foosball or watch a movie in the evenings in the media room with an 84 inch Apple TV.

Design a Great Canadian Summer Adventure with Villas and Apartments Abroad here.

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp and Bush Villa

A tremendously memorable, exciting and original summer adventure can be throughly enjoyed in Kenya at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp and Bush Villa. Cottar’s is a fifth generation run family safari service, as such, they value family tremendously. They accept kids of all ages and children aged 0-5 years stay for free.

“Rich with family history and the history of Kenya, we return to the original spirit and essence of ‘safari’, the golden era of professional guiding and adventure!” Describes Calvin Cottar, founder of the 1920s Safari Camp.

“Our Cottars family are passionate about Kenya, its conservation and community. We know the wildlife and the people of our area intimately and you are welcomed in and treated as personal friends and we hope you leave feeling like part of our family.”

Cottar’s has a number of fun family activities that the kids will surely love (and most parents too). A very popular family activity is their Masai Warrior School, where participants learn how to make a bow and arrows and then test them out on a target to see who the best shot is. You’ll also learn to make a fire using just sticks and dried grass, dress up like a traditional Masai and get dancing. Active pursuits include swimming and fishing in a nearby waterfall is also on offer, fun rounds of volleyball, swimming in the 25m private pool as well as their unique bush walk or run, getting up close and personal with the wildlife or enjoy a traditional game drive. Activities for the whole family to enjoy!

“The key to our family friendly ethos is that we realise that time spent with your family is so precious and so we do exactly what you want to do, the only thing scheduled in your day is your game drives,” elaborates Calvin. “We listen to you to find out what your individual interests are and then the adventure begins.

“Nothing beats watching a child’s face change from awe to delight as they come face to face with their first elephant or make their first bow and arrow with their guide. They will be immersed into the authentic safari experience and tribal interaction, looked after by our guides who truly engage with children and enjoy teaching them all about their surroundings, flora and fauna and the wildlife.”

Cottar’s Bush Villa has everything you would need to keep your family entertained in comfort and style surrounded by breathtaking views onto the savannah plains that carry the great annual wildebeest migration. The villa is over 10,000 square feet in size, and features a large living room, dining room, a magnificent viewing deck, and five en-suite bedrooms, all with stunning views. It has internet access throughout, satellite TV and DVD, and is powered with electric and solar energy.

For families, both big and small, Cottar’s is the perfect getaway, providing something for everyone. Create family memories to last a lifetime with Cottar’s at this link.

Le Vigne – Tuscany, Italy

This wonderful seven bedroom villa is set on a vast private estate in Tuscany and only 30 kilometers from the beach. Available through excellent.villas by Trust+Travel, it has a fabulous range of facilities to keep the kids and young adults occupied among which is a marvelous riding center.

The beautifully decorated estate includes 800 square meters of indoor space within various buildings and one hectare (2.4 acres) of outdoor space on a vast private estate in Maremma, a lesser known part of Tuscany stretching along the coast.

The main villa is home to a large family kitchen, a bright loggia transformed into a comfortable a living room, a TV room with Satellite TV and surround sound system, a billiards room and six of the en-suite bedrooms. The seventh en-suite bathroom is found in the annex and there is also a pool house with a summer kitchen, changing room, state-of-art hammam and bathroom. On the estate is a wonderful riding facility with a club house for events, a bird sanctuary, and the ruins of the 12th-century Castello di Pia de’ Tolomei, immortalized by Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy.

The villa is surrounded by a lawned garden, covered patio and large terrace on the roof for al fresco dining. Guests can enjoy strolling through the paths of the gardens and woods, swimming in the 10 x 5 m pool, challenging each other to a round of ping pong table or tennis (at the court shared with another villa), or doing some riding at the equestrian center which has jumping facility and private riding lessons and guided excursions on the estate or to nearby natural parks, even as far as the sea. Guests also have access to private nine hole Golf Club.

For a seamless, hassle-free holiday, maid service is included in the rent and a cook can be arranged at an additional fee to prepare delicious Italian meals that will appeal to the palates of all your family members.

The villa is currently available June 19th to July 22nd and July 29th to August 25th. Learn more about this fantastic family holiday villa by reaching out to Trust+Travel here.

Aspen House – Queenstown, New Zealand

Whist things might be heating up with the Northern Hemisphere, the Southern is buzzing with a wealth of winter activities for all ages and abilities. Offering plenty of sunshine, majestic lakes, snow-capped alpine beauties, and an unrivalled selection of activities and attractions, it comes as no surprise that Queenstown, New Zealand is as popular a destination to enjoy all seasons. Our experts at Touch of Spice have the perfect villa for your winter family trip Down Under.

Aspen House is a luxurious villa encompassing four bedrooms, each with its own en-suite, and is privately located enjoying majestic views of Lake Wakatipu, the snow-capped Remarkables Mountain, and Queenstown City. A short distance to Queenstown shops, restaurants and bush walks, explore the area on foot or head out on a scenic 25 minute drive to the Remarkables ski fields for a skiing adventure.

“Enjoy the high altitude experience of a guided snowshoeing walk in complete solid from the outside world, or conquer the back country, only accessible by helicopter, with an afternoon of snowmobiling through the wilderness of the central most inland mountain range in New Zealand,” tempts Kelcey Radford, marketing manager of Touch of Spice.

“For a more traditional winter experience, enjoy dog sledding through the stunning alpine trials of Otago, or experience the overnight tour, staying in a picturesque backcountry hut. Heli skiing, glacier landings, and ice driving are other one-of-a-kind winter thrills, that you can only find in the Southern hemisphere during this time of the year.”

Savor some downtime back at the villa, sitting around the large gas fire, set in a beautiful stone fireplace with TV above, playing chess on the platinum chess set or just snuggling up on a winter’s night with a glass of Pinot or hot chocolate, while watching the sun setting on the snowy mountains. Kids will love tasty meals easily prepared on the barbecue and enjoyed on the outside rustic dining table and chairs. Afterwards they can roast marshmallows on the large outside log fire, or warm up in the outdoor hot tub.

Plan an adventurous wintery holiday to New Zealand this “summer” with the assistance of Touch of Spice at this link.

Happy House, Saint-Tropez, France

On the outskirts of Saint-Tropez, only a 5 minute drive to its Place des Lices, is this delightful family friendly villa, available through Villas Prestige & Services. A children’s paradise, in addition to a large lawn, pool and gorgeous sea views, it has an abundance of outlets for endless hours of family fun.

The vast, air-conditioned 500 m2 villa is surrounded by an expansive 10,000 m2 garden. It sleeps 16 in eight en-suite bedrooms.  In front of the living room, there is the pool terrace with a 12 x 6 meter heated pool, a large dining table and barbecue. There is another large terrace on the other side with a sitting area area and table for breakfast, dinner or enjoying the sunset. The grounds also feature a 22 x 36 meter soccer pitch, a tennis court with night lighting, a pétanque pitch and a play ground for children. Guests can also enjoy the ping pong, foosball and billiards tables. There are beaches and watersport opportunities within a short drive, plus biking, hiking and a wide range of active and cultural pursuits that are found in the South of France.

Guests can arrive via the Heliport or there is covered parking to protect your vehicles from the hot sun. A housekeeper ensures that you are comfortable and have a wonderful and joyful stay at Happy House.

Plan your perfect family vacation on the lovely and sunny Cote d’Azure with Villas Prestige & Services here.

Borgo Finocchieto – Tuscany, Italy

This enchanting, restored medieval hamlet is the perfect summer destination bringing together history, charm and an abundance of activities the whole family will love. With accommodation for up to 44 guests in 22 suites, plus an excellent array of onsite amenities and nearby activities, the Borgo Finocchieto is ideal for a family reunion, birthday celebration, or any other special family occasions.

“The secluded, well-contained nature of the property and numerous opportunities for entertainment (both on-site and easily arranged off-site) have created a place where parents find they can readily relax with their children,” says Pascale Queriot, Sales and Marketing Consultant of the Borgo. “On-site amenities that are kid favorites include the swimming pool (with a shallow end and inflatable toys), tennis, basketball and bocce courts, and a media center complete with DVD player, Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3. There are also several adult-size bicycles for older children.”

In addition, there is a great number of fun outings can be organized from horseback riding to helicopter tours of Siena or hot air balloon rides from nearby Montisi. The Borgo’s chef is happy to cater to younger palates and staff can help you stockpile your children’s favorite snacks. Babysitting services can also be organized should the adults in the group want to enjoy any of the many opportunities for trips or activities off-site.

Please both young and old in a multigenerational group during a special family getaway to the Borgo Finocchieto at this link.

Boca Overwater – Bocas del Toro, Panama

Kids and parents alike will be wowed with an exciting summer trip to this exceptional and sustainable villa which sits on stilts in a gorgeous UNESCO recognized Panamanian archipelago.

The unique property is a seven-minute boat ride from the Bocas International Airport, a 40-minute flight from Panama City. The villa is built on 135 stilts and is connected to a 15 hectares island by a 130 meter dock.

“On a four-year trip around the world, the creator was looking for the right indigenous families to work with, ones that took pride in impeccable work, but also that would truly benefit from the income earned.
 She found the right combination in Las Bocas del Toro,” details Sylvia Delvaille Jones of Villas and Apartments Abroad, who arranges holidays at the villa.

“It was very important to her that everything be socially responsible and handcrafted, so it can tell a story of the local indigenous people. When guests are at the house, you can touch, feel, smell and breathe every object while finding out about each of their stories. In addition, 50% of all proceeds from income from rentals go towards the local school.”

Every moment in this special environmental microcosm is exciting for children. On the island they can pick fruit from the orchard, join in on some farming and spend hours on scavenger hunt to track down baby crabs and rainbow of butterflies. Watersports include snorkeling, swimming with baby turtles, paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, surfing, kiteboarding and more. Private tours around the islands with our private 30-foot motor boat, jungle expedition and beyond.

Offer your children an amazing opportunity to connect with nature this summer at the Boca Overwater by reaching out to Villas and Apartments Abroad here.

Tarkuni Lodge – Tswalu, South Africa

For those looking for an extremely private and unique safari experience, the Tarkuni is the ideal lodge and it offers numerous attractions for families. Available through cazenove+loyd and set in the magnificent Kalahari Reserve, it is the biggest privately owned reserve in South Africa, spanning over 100,000 hectares. There are some very rare species found at Tswalu and being a very dry area many of the animals are desert-adapted, including the Kalahari lions, white rhino and of course the ever popular meerkat families. You might even be lucky to catch a glance of an aardvark or pangolin on a night game drive.

Cazenove+loyd have been sending families to the Tarkuni, the private house on the reserve, for many years. Recently redesigned to uncompromising standards of comfort and elegance. Its five luxurious suites, each with a magnificent en-suite bathroom, accommodate a maximum of 10 guests in total. Tarkuni also has its own dedicated team including a host and private chef to ensure meticulous and completely personal service.

The lodges guides also run a hugely successful junior rangers programme which gets children involved in numerous fun but educational activities. On arrival, every child is welcomed with a backpack full of guides and tools; they get their own opportunity to chat with our hospitality staff about what they would like to do. Activities include archery (beginning by making your own bow and arrow), spoor identification and casting as well as tracking on foot. Children’s bush walks are hugely educational and often end with a fantastic picnic – parents can come too.

Have an exciting and unforgettable family holiday in South Africa this summer with cazenove+loyd at this link.

La Fattoria – Tuscany, Italy

Our experts at Homebase Abroad have a wonderful six-bedroom Tuscan villa perfect for families looking to mix culture and outdoor activities on a summer holiday to Italy.

Situated near Lucca, the private 55-hectare aristocratic estate is surrounded by perennial beds, cypress trees, well-kept lawns, 1800 olive trees, dense woods and rolling fields. La Fattoria is a 17th-century restored farmhouse found on the estate and flanked by a lovely unrestored and vacant villa dating from the 17th and 18th centuries and another unrestored villa, dating from the 15th-16th centuries, is located in the woodland.

The interior of the villa features original ‘cotta’ floors, though the beamed ceilings have been whiten with ‘calcio’ to give the rooms a lighter, contemporary look. Some large rooms were transformed into oversized, marble-finished bathrooms. There is a spacious living room with linen-covered sofas, a working fireplace, a large plasma TV, satellite TV and DVD player.

Meals can be savored in the refined dining room with a table for 12 and lit by an elegant Venetian chandelier or outdoors under the shaded pergola or in the courtyard with original spring-fed washing tub and a barbecue. The 12 x 6 meter pool, with a diving board and nighttime lighting, is especially appreciated in summer, it’s bordered by umbrellas and sun beds living room under the shade of a white linen ‘curtain’ seats 8.

Popular family activities include visits to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, walking tours of historic Lucca, a trip to Vinci, hometown of Leonardo da Vinci where to you tour a museum containing replicas of his inventions, 4×4 excursion to the marble quarries of Carrara, private boat rides along the Tuscan coast from Forte dei Marmi, horseback riding along the beach in Marina di Vecchiano or enjoying the lovely area around the villa on walks and bike rides.

Spend a spectacular summer in Tuscany with Homebase Abroad at this link.

Athos Barge Cruise – Canal du Midi, France

Our experts at Barge Lady Cruises love welcoming two and three generation families to the canals of France. For a family cruise this summer, they recommend the Athos, a 10-passenger barge which cruises down the Canal du Midi, located in the southwest of the country.

“We know that families can truly relax and bond while floating on tranquil waterways miles away from their homes and usual responsibilities,” says Stephanie Sacks of Barge Lady Cruises. “And the Athos is such a perfect fit for families.”

Cruising the lively waterways of the Canal du Midi, the barge is supremely comfortable and cozy, boasting the largest deck in the region. Ambiance and décor is informal and the cabins are “country French” in feel, with lovely flower bouquets and beautiful tiled baths.

Cuisine is of course gourmet for the grown-ups with goodies and nibbles prepared perfectly by the crew’s private chef for even the smallest of passengers. Adults enjoy a myriad of regional wines and local spirits onboard as well, while “mocktails” and sodas are specially served to the littles.

Best of all, family fun on the Athos is offered every day and coordinated by the barge’s crew, which includes a dedicated tour guide. The itinerary includes kid-pleasing activities such as kayaking on a nearby river, horseback riding, visits to beaches and parks, picnicking, bicycling, tennis – just to name a few! Barge owners Julian and Dannielle Farrant live in the area, and are parents themselves of two children, so their expertise on family-friendly sightseeing in the region is second to none.

Design a fantastic floating family holiday in France with Barge Lady Cruises here.

Martello House, Barbados

The summertime is an excellent time to visit Barbados and our experts at Blue Sky Luxury are making it exceptionally alluring for family holidays to the island with their “Hello Family Holiday… Kids Play Free” promotion. You can save up to 15% on a selection of their superb villas and kids can enjoy a range of complimentary activities from submarine dives to cave tours.

The island is a welcoming, safe holiday environment where visitors and families can enjoy a great variety of summer events while absorbing authentic Barbadian life. Their stylish eight-bedroom Martello House is an ideal option for a summer escape to the island. Surrounded by manicured gardens, it is located on a ridge overlooking the Royal Westmoreland Golf Course and out towards the sparkling Caribbean Sea. The spacious living room opens out to a beautiful covered verandah, infinity edge swimming pool and phenomenal vistas of the coastline.

All bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms and one of the two master bedrooms is found on the top floor and features vaulted ceilings and folding doors that open out onto a private patio. One bedroom is located in a separate guest cottage. Additional amenities include of a fitness gym, games room, snooker room with kitchenette and a surround sound media room ideal for movie nights. There is a full time staff of a housekeeper, chef and butler.

When you are not relaxing at the villa, the beach is a definitely highlight for the whole family. A few steps away from most of Blue Sky Luxury’s holiday homes are the island’s powdery beaches, ideal for building sand castles, taking to the water paddle boarding or surfing, or on a catamaran cruise. Kids love spotting the island’s array of marine life, especially the baby turtles.

Venturing inland, junior adventurers will be thrilled with off-road safaris and tours to Harrison’s Cave whilst both young and old will enjoy learning about the island’s colonial history at the Sunbury Plantation house, or the 300-plus year old Mount Gay rum plantation. There are also world class golf courses, where kids can enjoy lessons and Welchman Hall Gully, where you can observe monkeys play in the trees.

Enjoy a fantastic beach holiday in the Caribbean this summer with Blue Sky Luxury at this link.

Schloss Kogl, Austria

Austria’s lake district, Salzkammergut, offers an extraordinary collection of activities for families and our experts at the gorgeous baroque Schloss Kogl, can help you design a thrilling family getaway to the area. Here’s what the castle’s owner Monika Mayr-Melnhof recommends for a perfect family day:

“After breakfast at Kogl, pack your swimsuit, walk five minutes to the tiny “Kogl“ train station and jump aboard to go to Attersee. Walk through the little village until you reach the “Teehaus,“ our private place at the lake with all facilities to spend a relaxed day at the lakeside. The kids will adore swimming in this pristine lake, taking a ride in the row-boat and lying in the sun. On windy days you can watch hundreds of sailing boats or maybe rent one yourself.

“Around lunchtime we can drop off everything you would like for a nice picnic at the lake. The fridge will already be well stocked with cool beverages. After lunch you could make your way to the mini golf course, rent electric boats to see the shore from in the village,or have an ice cream at Rohringer’s, or spend some time on the public beach with playground and giant slide and french fries as an afternoon snack.

“It is nice to stay there also for the evening, when everything around calms down a bit and the mountains start to become a beautiful blue.”

Other than the lake, guests can enjoy many sports in the area including golf at the Attersee 18 hole club, biking the 345 kilometers of trails found at Attergau, hiking, horseback riding, tennis.you can play your private matches on our sand court in the park , when the weather is nice and dry, or on rainy days indoors public in Sankt Georgen and right at the castle you can swim in the pool, play table tennis or table football or do some bowling in their historic alley. There are also many beautiful towns in the area for sightseeing and a day in Salzburg is a must!

Enjoy a fabulous outdoor holiday in this gorgeous part of Austria and at the splendid Schloss Kogl castle at this link.

Taking an African Safari can be one of the most memorable travel experiences of a lifetime, that is, if it’s planned properly. Knowing the best time to go and where, which local guides to use and what experiences will elevate your trip from a vacation to a life-changing trip is not something that can come from doing a little research online. We hear from acclaimed Africa expert Henrietta Loyd and her regional team at cazenove+loyd about the invaluable benefits of working with a seasoned travel specialist to design the perfect bespoke safari holiday for each traveler.

Insider Expertise & Experience

There are many elements to factor in when planning a safari from which camps and lodges to stay at to the best adapted activities to include. Cazenove+loyd was born in Africa after founder Henrietta Loyd’s time living in Botswana over 30 years ago. She and her team experience have accumulated over sixty years experience living, working and planning extraordinary holidays in Africa.

Their Destination Experts are intensely passionate about Africa and strive to make all of their clients fall in love with the place they have spent their lives exploring. They have built a carefully selected repertoire of on the ground contacts which allows them to ensure that each trip is entirely seamless. They even go as far as calling ahead to make sure their close-knit group of trusted local camp owners and guides know when a cazenove+loyd client is staying with them so that the clients are guaranteed to have an extra-special stay.

Access to the Top Luxury Lodges & Camps

The cazenove+loyd Africa team has all stayed and even worked at the best safari lodges and camps. They tend to select small and owner-run lodges and camps which have first-class facilities, a diverse range of activities, the very best resident guides and which are located in the most breathtaking places. They also have the perfect venues for those looking for additional luxuries like gyms, wifi and even spas. They have fostered personal friendships with the owners, who add on specials touches that make a big difference to creating a trip exceeds expectations.

Tried & Test Network of Exceptional Guides

Securing the most inspiring guides for their clients is cazenove+loyd’s highest priority. Having the right person to introduce visitors to the country, while at the same time reveal its soul, is immensely important on safari. Cazenove+loyd’s guides are gifted storytellers who are also highly-skilled at tracking animals – both key attributes to a safari experience. The best guides know exactly when a wild animal is nearby and even how to communicate with it. There is no way to feel more connected with Africa than discovering it with someone whose life has been dedicated to unlocking its best and cazenove+loyd can connect you with the top guides who live and breathe their work. They match guides to clients based on their personal interests, from conservation to birdlife. The team is especially attentive to pair families with guides who are the most engaging and exciting for children while a different personality might be better suited to couples. A private guide can also be arranged to accompany guests on multi-country safaris.

Access to the Best Exclusive Experiences

People often associate safaris with game-drives, however, there are so many other amazing ways to experience Africa. Cazenove+loyd’s Destination Experts have been out riding, fishing, trekking, flying and quad-biking to know which are the very best experiences available for clients and to able to tailor the perfect itinerary for them. You can read more about their flying safari in Namibia at the bottom of this article.

Knowing the Best Times to Go & Where

Nature’s cycles and rhythms can vary dramatically in Africa. With their extensively first-hand experience living and working over the whole continent, cazenove+loyd’s Destination Experts can advise clients as to which destination is best visited depending on the month, what they are would to see and what are hoping to get out of their trip. The dry season is generally prefered by families and traditional safaris with big game viewing, like witnessing the phenomenal Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania. That said, the drama and lush landscapes of the rainy season, such as the stormy skies creeping over Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley, are equally awe-inspiring. A true specialist will focus in on the options with you to help you decide.

Environmentally & Socially Responsible

Poaching and other environmental disturbances have lead a number of endemic species to be critically endangered and has threatened various ecosystems over the continent. Travelers to Africa can play a positive role by traveling with sustainably minded companies. All of cazenove+loyd’s safari and wildlife vacations are based around conservation, as without responsible tourism, the projects that protect animals and their habitat would not and could not exist. They are actively involved in projects from cheetah conservation to saving the Waterberg Rhino – efforts in which clients can get directly involved on safari with cazenove+loyd. The thrill of encountering animals in their natural habitat can be matched by witnessing the conservation projects that protect these majestic creatures.

Learn more about any of the above experiences or start planning an exciting, meaningful and memorable African safari with Henrietta Loyd and her Africa Destination Experts here.

Our planet is covered in such an immense multitude of biodiversity. Lush rainforests dense in exotic flora, expansive arid deserts punctuated by what appears as only the occasional prickly cactus, soaring mountains deep in pines or cratered terrain that appears from Mars, add these amazing protected parks to your holiday bucket list.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Established in 1925 as Africa’s first national park, the Volcanoes National Park (also known by its French name Parc National des Volcans) occupies 160 sq kms of jungle in northwestern Rwanda and garnered international attention stemming from the work of zoologist Dian Fossey on the area’s mountain gorilla. In addition to being a protected habitat for gorilla, it’s also home to a number of other wildlife such as the golden monkey, the spotted hyena, the black-fronted duiker, the bushbuck, elephants and 178 bird species. Due to its varying altitudes, it contains a vast array of flora spread across five of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Mountains.

Dian Fossey came to the Park in 1967 and consequently set up the Karisoke Research Centre between Karisimbi and Visoke. She dedicated most of her time researching in the park and to saving the mountain gorilla from extinction. She was tragically murdered by unknown assailants at her home in 1985, most likely by poachers. She is buried next to the research center beside the grave of her favorite gorilla, Digit.

Dian Fossey and her important work have been commemorated in the recently inaugurated Map Room at the Virunga Lodge. The excellent eco-luxury lodge in the collection of Volcanoes Safaris, who also led life-changing gorilla safaris at the park and elsewhere in Rwanda and Uganda.

The Lau Seascape, Fiji

Fiji is a nation of color, culture and remarkable biodiversity and the Fijian Archipelago encompasses one of the most extensive coral reef systems in the world. Our local expert Jacqui Reyes from Vatuvara Private Islands gives us this further insight into this important protected natural site:

“In 2015, the Fijian government established a target to place 30% of Fijian waters under protected status by 2020. Fiji is leading the way in marine conservation in the Pacific. The Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF) has declared 2017 the Pacific Year of the Ocean. The Government of Fiji is co-hosting the United Nations Ocean Conference in New York in June 2017, to support the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.

“One Marine Sanctuary targeted to make up Fiji’s 30% protected status is the blue-green jewel of forest and reef called the Vatu-i-Ra Seascape. It stretches across the channel that links Fiji’s two main islands, and comprises over 27,000 square kilometers of forests, mangroves, seagrass meadows, reefs, deep channels, and seamounts. It is one of the few remaining sanctuaries for the globally endangered humphead wrasse, there is abundant sea life and it’s one of the Pacific’s last great wild places.

“The Lau Seascape is also home to some of the most well-preserved reef systems in the world. The lagoons of Vatuvara Private Islands and their surrounding ocean provide varying ecosystems and safe havens for marine life. The Northern Lau group of islands is filled with a diversity of wildlife, these remote islands are breathtaking, filled with lush forests and fringed by spectacular beaches and azure waters. Inspired by the Vatu-i-Ra Seascape, Vatuvara Private Islands is committed to preserving the ridge to reef environments through establishing the new Vatuvara Foundation in Fiji. The Vatuvara Foundation is dedicated to protect and revive oceans in Northern Lau through a network of marine managed areas and provide innovative solutions to promote awareness that empowers local communities in order to sustain livelihoods from their natural resources.” – Jacqui Reyes, Vatuvara Private Islands

Where to stay in The Lau Seascape.

KalalauTrail

Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

Hawaii evokes lush tropical forests and some of the chain of island’s most impressive forests and views can be savored in gorgeous Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. Located in the north of Kauai Island. Established in in 1983 it currently extends to over 3,578 acres (14.5 km2) and is lined with na pali (high cliffs) along the shoreline which can reach heights up to 4,000 feet (1,200 m). The best way to experience the park’s magnificent scenery is by hiking the Kalalau trail. Along this 18km coastal trail from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach you’ll be able to admire unspoilt stretch of cliffs and narrow valleys rising from the Pacific Ocean. On the way you can also observe stone walled terraces at the bottom of the valleys where Hawaiians once lived and cultivated taro.The trail takes between six and eight hours depending on your pace and requires good physical condition as it can often be muddy and slippery after rainfall. A permit is not needed to hike to Hanakapi’ai Falls, but anything after that requires a permit.

Where to Stay on Kauai Island.

Morne Seychellois National Park, The Seychelles

The Seychelles has become a frontrunner in sustainable tourism with almost half of its total landmass set aside in the form of protected areas ensuring that its incredible variety of indigenous flora (more than 250 native plant species) and fauna will survive for future generations. While there are official natural parks, there is much to explore beyond the borders of the parks, especially by foot.

“There are amazing nature trails on Mahe,” explains our local expert Karl Ammann, director of the Residence on the Rocks. “All easily reachable since the whole Island is only 30 kms long. The path up to the Residence is a nature trail in itself about one km from the villa property and all through indigenous forest and rock formations with a lot of bird life.”

The island’s best know official part, the Morne Seychellois National Park, is found on the northern side of Mahé. It covers about 20 percent of the total surface of the island and consists of mangroves, dense tropical forests and steep mountains. The more adventurous can scale its highest mountain, the namesake of the Park. Rising 900 metres (2,950 feet), it’s also the tallest mountain in the entire archipelago. A highlight is the Copolia trail, a relatively easy jungle pathway which begins at Chemin Foret Noire and features some amazing views across Victoria and Sainte Anne. Other notable trails are from Danzil to Anse Major, the Tea Factory to Morne Blanc, and the paths around the Trois Frères cliffs above Victoria. You can find more information on these trails here.

Where to stay in The Seychelles.

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

With its moonlike crater lakes and volcanic landscape New Zealand’s oldest national park is one of the most unique natural locations on earth. Only one of three UNESCO World Heritage sites, it’s one of the few in the world to have dual status, as a cultural and natural site due to the park’s importance to Maori cultural and spirituality. The breathtaking Tongariro National Park is situated near Lake Taupo in the center of New Zealand’s North Island. The best way to experience the park is to hike its Alpine Crossing along which you’ll be able to take in its different terrains and admire the unbelievable colors of the Emerald Lakes, straight out of a fantasy or sci-fi movie. The more active can push on a little further up Mount Ngauruhoe where you’ll be rewarded with even more spectacular views.

Where to stay near Tongariro National Park.

Gallatin National Forest, Montana, U.S.A.

Some of America’s most pristine nature and its most amazing views can be witnessed in Montana, known as the “Big Sky State” and home to the sublime of Gallatin National Forest. More visitors might make their way to nearby Yellowstone National Park, situated across the state line in Wyoming, however, you’ll find more peace and quiet to commune with nature at Gallatin, minus the flocks of crowds attracted to its more famous neighbor. The park offers world-class hiking where the only beings you might encounter are chirping birds, dashing foxes and slow-paced moose. The park also draws fly-fishermen who are equally spellbound in the meditative act of casting their line in the park’s pristine waters. The sound of the trickling streams, the whisper of the breeze through its ancient forests and the jaw-dropping panoramas of the mountains will be strongly etched in your mind, making your journey through Montana’s wilderness an unforgettable one.

Where to stay near Gallatin National Forest.

Hohe Tauern National Park - Austria

Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria

Creating a jagged border line between France, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and Austria, the Alps showcase some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring landscape. You can experience some of its most pristine and gorgeous natural settings in Austria’s Hohe Tauern National Park. The largest natural park in all of the Alps, it spreads 1,856 km² over three Austrian provinces. Hikers delight in its 350 kilometers of marked paths and alpine trails which zigzag through the beautiful Rauris Valley into Taxenbach and the SalzburgerLand region. The Rauris Valley, dubbed the “Secret Jewel Hohe Tauern National Park,” is truly a must. Here you can venture deep into majestic green forests, past rushing rivers and waterfalls, observe powerful birds of prey in their nature environment and discover sites linked to the gold-mine era. Since most of the paths are manageable for inexperienced or casual hikers, it makes for the perfect place to take walkers of mixed levels or families; avid mountaineers and mountain-climbers can also satisfy their need for adrenaline on its higher peaks.

Where to stay near Hohe Tauern National Park.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Along with its neighbor the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, this is one of Africa’s most famous and one of the most beautiful, mesmerizing places on earth. Founded in 1961, the 1,500 km2 (580 sq mi) Maasai Mara National Reserve was named in honor of the Maasai people who have inhabitants the region for millennia. The plains of savanna are dotted with short trees and scrub and are the regular stomping ground for leopards, cheetahs, lions in addition to the annual Great Migration of zebra, Thompson’s gazelle, hyena, impala and wildebeest to and from the Serengeti which takes every July to October. During this period there can be as many as 1.5 million animals and around 90 species of mammals, amphibians and reptiles and over 400 birds species on the reserve.

There are many ways to visit the park, and our local experts at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp and Bush Villa offer unique opportunities to witness the wildlife in addition to a variety of cultural experiences with the local Maasai people, get a taste of some of them here.

Where to stay near The Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Pico das Prateleiras. Photo Credit: Edgar de Brito / Flickr

Itatiaia National Park, Brazil

Brazil’s nature dazzles the eyes and enlivens the spirit. There are so many exceptional natural places to explore across the country, one of the easiest for those on a short trip to the country is the this gorgeous park. The country’s oldest one, established in 1937, Itatiaia National Park is located three hours north of the picturesque colonial town of Paraty and four hours from Rio de Janeiro. It spreads over the Mantiqueira mountain range, where you can find some of Brazil’s highest mountains including Prateleiras and Agulhas Negras, ranging in altitude from 540 to 2,791 metres (1,772 to 9,157 ft). Casual and advanced hikers can enjoy a day (or more) discovering the lush vegetation, snaking rivers and cascading waterfalls of Prateleiras whereas more skilled mountaineers can take on the challenges of rockier Agulhas Negras. Of course, the higher you go, the better the views! The park is also very popular with bird watchers who can spot upwards of 350 different species.

Where to stay near Itatiaia National Park.

Joshua Tree National Park. Photo Credit: A Different Brian / Flickr

Joshua Tree National Park, California, U.S.A.

The desert usually sparks visions of the majestic dunes of the Sahara, however, the U.S. is actually home to one of the planet’s most unique deserts: The Joshua Tree National Park. Occupying a vast 800,000 acres of Southern California it is extremely variable with dramatic scenery of rugged mountains and wind torn plains. It features two distinct deserts with two large ecosystems roughly divided by elevation. The lower sector, the Colorado Desert, is the half of the park below 3,000 feet (910 m) and is found in the eastern side. This arid land is abundant in creosote bush as well as ocotillo and cholla cactus. The higher section is known as the Mojave Desert. It is slightly cooler and wetter and is the habitat of the peculiar Joshua tree, dominant in the park’s western half. Immortalized in the 1987 U2 album of the same name, the Irish pop stars were not the first to notice this unusual tree. Early explorer John Fremont described them as “… the most repulsive tree in the vegetable kingdom.” Alluring or vile, you’ll just have to visit the park to decide for yourself.

Where to stay near the Joshua Tree National Park:

Our global expert Sylvia Delvaille Jones of Villas and Apartments Abroad has the perfect base for exploring the region from the gorgeous Mirage Palm Springs villa, located only an hour drive from the park and with a stunning desert-like, red rocky backdrop. This luxurious 5,000+ sq ft home was completed in 2012 and consists of six bedrooms on a three-building private compound, including the main house, a casita, nanny’s quarters, plus the largest residential lap pool in the desert and an impressive home cinema. Enjoy the star-studded glamour of Palm Springs and the area’s spectacular nature by reaching out to Sylvia here.

Active in the safari business for almost a century, the Cottar family has a profound knowledge of Kenya, its people and wildlife. Located on the border of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, and just one kilometer from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, the family and its award-winning Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp and Bush Villa are intrinsically linked to the community and its natural surroundings. We discover how they are not merely providing guests with bespoke safari experiences, but are also making a significant contribution to the conservation of Kenya’s wildlife, cultures, and ecosystems.

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In 1919, Charles Cottar, along with his three sons, established ‘Cottar’s Safari Service’, one of the very first registered safari companies organizing big game hunting and film safaris in Africa. This legacy has evolved and is carried on today by Calvin Cottar and his wife Louise with the foundation of Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp in the mid 1990s. Set on a 6,000 acre private conservancy, it has 10 deluxe tents, all with ensuites, recreating the grand era of safaris.cottars-private-villa-dining-area-2

In addition to the safari camp, they have added the exclusive Mara Bush Villa. Called ‘Cottar’s Bush Villa,’ it was designed by Calvin and Louise Cottar and constructed by hand using indigenous and eco-friendly building materials. Located in a secluded part of the camp with breathtaking view onto the savannah plains, guests can enjoy the same high standards and level of service the camp is known for within an absolute private setting.

The Bush Villa is the only real private luxury home in the whole game reserve. It is spread over 10,000 sq ft, and includes a large living room, dining room, a magnificent viewing deck, and five ensuite bedrooms, all with stunning views, modern amenities, solar power and a new 25m swimming pool. A dedicated game drive vehicle(s) and guide(s) are provided to guests throughout their stay.

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Cottar’s distinguishes itself as much more than a safari camp. Calvin Cottar, pictured in the center of the group above, tells us more:

“Our vision is for Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp to be financially successful and sustainable for the next 100 years. By remaining true to the family tradition of providing an authentic and individualized safari experience and by ensuring a legacy of wilderness, wildlife, comfort and security and honouring a balance between conservation, prosperous commerce, community and culture.

“We believe that there can be a maintained balance between a successful business and sustainable conservation, social entrepreneurship, and community development. We are continually committed to maximising our positive and minimising our negative impacts. We are dedicated to environmentally conscious hospitality, sustainable conservation and the empowerment of local communities.”

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A member of the Global Ecosphere Retreats, Cottar’s is dedicated to achieving long term sustainability through their own innovative method of wildlife conservation. This effectively promotes natural biodiversity so that it has a viable use to the thousands of local maasai, offering them an alternative to needing to cut it down to create fenced farms for their livelihood.

The camp remains accountable for all aspects of the business and strives to minimize any negative impacts and maximize the positive ones. To achieve this, the team has implemented monitoring procedures to record and reduce to a minimum, the camps use of energy, water, materials and emissions, with the aim of becoming net positive. They have also established the Cottar’s Wildlife Conservation Trust (CWCT) which supports the creation of a 6,000 acre Olderikesi Wildlife Conservancy pilot project on the boundary and key wildlife corridor of the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Serengeti National Park. CWCT has been actively involved in the preservation of natural habitats and wildlife in the region as well as securing it from poachers and protecting the local community.

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As a part of the camp’s commitment to the environment, they ensures that 95% of their inorganic waste is recycled and many of the ingredients which appear on guests’ plates comes straight from the camp’s organic garden. They go one step further by encouraging guests to take bush walks instead of vehicle game drives. This reduces fuel consumption in addition to offering a unique experience for guests to interact more closely with the area’s wildlife, flora and fauna.

The camp has no future without land for wildlife, or wildlife itself. The Maasai can have more revenue and cultural survivability with their land being kept open in this conservancy model Cottar’s has pioneered, than it being converted to farmland. As such, they have partnered with the Maasai community to manage their land on their behalf (for wildlife use) at rates competitive with other economic uses providing alternative livelihood opportunities.

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Their connection to the local community goes far beyond this. They have always been committed to the Maasai people by providing them with income from leasing land for wildlife conservancies, employment and economic opportunities, microgrids and exposure to other development partners.  The camp itself has a staff of over 90, 100% of which is Kenyan and 45% is from the local community.

The Maasai have so far been able to maintain their traditional way of life and Cottar’s offers a variety of experiences to ensure that guests don’t miss out on discovering this vibrant culture. These can include excursions to various Maasai villages, visiting markets with beadwork and other traditional handicrafts produced by Maasai women as an additional way of preserving Maasai culture and their Masai Warrior School where guests can learn about the Maasai culture, how to light a fire with sticks and make and shoot their own bow and arrows.

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The team at Cottar’s assists with the well being and development of the local community via medical clinic visits (dental, ambulance transfers and other general services) run by volunteer groups and the promotion of education. It funded the building of the Olpalagilagi Primary School for a total of 200 students, paying teachers salaries and a school food program – a strong incentive to send children to school and keep them there.

They have also built a foot bridge with the Bridging the Gap Africa. The locals can now access social amenities which were previously accessible due to the difficulty in crossing the Sand River especially during floods. The bridge is now saving an average of six lives a year.

What can you do, even from afar?  

Cottar’s Wildlife Conservation Trust accepts donations and even smaller amounts can make a difference. Here are some examples:

  • The Olderikesi Conservancy: one hectare per year land sponsorship (toward the Conservancy for a wilderness corridor) would cost $50.
  • Primary School Education: to enable a child to attend primary school for a year costs $250 including food, education, books and uniforms; one desk $80, one teacher’s salary $120 per month, construction of one class room costs $10,000.
  • Provisions for Healthcare: they are trying to fund a mobile clinic at $55,000 and continue in the meantime to provide limited emergency medical assistance and interim free medical health days.
  • Water: a water hand pump borehole would cost $30,000 and catchment dam for cattle and wildlife would cost $20,000.
  • Conservation: one game scout ranger would cost $120 per month; and a 4WD vehicle for conservancy- community liaison would cost $25,000.

Alternatively, if you are vacationing directly at Cottar’s, they are proud members of Pack for a Purpose, an initiative that allows travelers to make a lasting impact in the community by packing some school or medical supplies. These generous gestures can make a big difference in the lives of our local children and families.

“Our hope is that people take with them a feeling of contentment and happiness in the knowledge that they have stayed somewhere that tries to balance what they ‘give and take’ of the earth’s resources,” says Calvin Cottar.

You can reach out to Cottar’s to enquire about availability at their Bush Villa or to make a donation to CWCT here.

We don our safari hats and journey to the African bush with Henrietta Loyd, our regional expert for Africa. She reveals how a first trip to this magical destination led to her to co-found the award-winning company cazenove+loyd, one of the world’s top specialists on safari tours and luxury holiday rentals across the African continent.

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“I will never forget my first experience of Africa. I was a pretty naïve twenty-year-old when I first set foot in the African bush in South Africa and I can still see in my mind now, all these years later, my first glimpse of a giraffe as I drove into camp from the airstrip. It was a life-changing moment, as I could not believe that I was actually seeing for real and in the wild, such a magnificent creature. I never looked back.

“What I love about being on safari is the pure connection with nature and wildlife. It is the smells of the bush, the space and the lack of people in the areas that we choose to send our clients. I always feel a complete sense of calm and freedom when I arrive and go on my first game drive or walk. There is also the adrenaline rush when one comes across one of the cats – especially on foot!

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“Susie Cazenove and I were inspired to set up cazenove+loyd twenty-five years ago, because we wanted to share our love of Africa with a wider audience and enable other people to share some of the experiences that we were lucky enough to have. It also gave us an excuse to talk about our favourite subject day-in/day-out and regularly go there ourselves to source new product and experience the safaris our clients were to go on and still do over twenty years later. Latin America and Asia and the Middle East, our further two divisions were formed by my other business partner Christopher Wilmot-Sitwell with the same ethos. We are passionate about travel and creating memories that will stay forever etched in the mind.

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“Marrying our personal experiences and expert knowledge with our client understanding is how we are able to deliver the best every time. Our meticulous planning and incomparable contacts on the ground mean that we have exclusive access to some of the most spectacular private houses, residences and villas in South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana, Zambia, Kenya and Tanzania. We can also offer stunning beach villas in Mozambique, the Seychelles, Mauritius and Morocco.

p1040661-2“We are still owner-run and our philosophy is the same today as the day we opened our doors – we are about being the best rather than the biggest. We are particularly proud to have recently been voted the second best ‘Specialist Tour Operator’ in the world by Condé Nast Traveller, awarded for our ‘incomparable knowledge’.

“I am thrilled to be working with UltraVilla as their regional expert for Africa, at a time when the continent has developed so rapidly, and the proliferation of lodges and camps means that there’s more need than ever for help and guidance in designing a luxury holiday in Africa that’s exactly right for you.” Henrietta Loyd

Start planning your dream African safari holiday with the vast expertise of Henrietta Loyd and her team by reaching out to cazenove+loyd here.