Set amid flourishing hills of fynbos (a type of shrub only found in the Western and Eastern Cape), Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an award-winning eco haven and is home to 907 plant species, including 100 endangered species. New this year, Grootbos has launched the Grootbos Florilegium — a collection of botanical illustrations of the rare plants found on the 8,650-acre reserve, painted by local and international artists. Hidden away from the rest of the estate are the two exclusive- use Grootbos Villas; each one is surrounded by ancient forest and features views of the ocean beyond. Villa 2 has four suites and a fully equipped kitchen, gym, sauna, wine cellar and game room. Outside, there’s an infinity pool, huge terrace and a braai (a type of South African barbecue). There’s also a private airstrip for small planes and helicopters — head out on a scenic flight, and keep your eyes peeled for whales swimming below.

From $6,400 per night. Contact Sean Ingles, general manager, bookings@grootbos.co.za, +27 283 848 053, grootbos.com