We returned at the weekend from quite simply the best holiday we have ever had. Back at work it has been more stressful than usual yet I really do feel on holiday in my head, it is so full off real fantastic memories that are alive and keeping me on holiday. I have never felt like this before!

South Africa is beautiful with stunning scenery. Everyone is so helpful and the itinerary arranged so expertly by this operator was perfect. I simply told them what we wanted and they delivered. Our four accommodations were wonderful.

The food was exceptional, the attention to detail perfect. An example was our first night at Hog Hollow. It was of course mid winter and though we were in T-shirts during the day, it cooled quickly in the evening.

After a fabulous evening meal, we returned to our bungalow to find the fire on, a bedtime story and sweet on the pillow and wonder of wonders, a hot water bottle in the bed.

As for Safari Lodges, Amakhala, it was exceptional. Everyone was so helpful. on our first afternoon we went on a safari. Half way through we stopped to have wine and cheese by the Land Rover watching the animal and the sunset. When we got back into the car, there were blankets and hot water bottles waiting for us. Then back to the lodge, into a hot bath and a bottle of sparkling wine in an ice bucket by the bath.

Best of all though was the genuine helpfulness and cheer of everyone. Everywhere, we had lots of local staff who were all lovely and well treated and valued.

I am usually a cautious traveller but this time I was able to rely much more on advice and help from our hosts at the various accommodations. We had wonderful guidance from the operator with a beautifully prepared folder giving accommodation notes, locality information, environmental concerns and advice. This was definitely a 5 star holiday.

Please note: Robin went on a combination of this Garden Route self drive holiday and Cape Town and Winelands trip