Fodor's Expert Review Tilney Manor

At historic Tilney Lodge, the staff waits outside to greet new arrivals with hot face towels to freshen up after the hour-long drive from the reserve entrance. The manor house, dating back to 1894, was once the home of the Swellendam district magistrate and features a comfortable lounge and sitting room decorated in English colonial style. In summer, the swimming pool is a popular spot overlooking the lush garden, arid plains, and mountains beyond. Each of the spacious garden rooms is classically decorated and has a private verandah. Lavish bathrooms feature indoor and outdoor showers as well as freestanding double-sided tubs. Lunches and dinners are served outside on the patio at individual tables, but indoor dining is around a communal table. The menu changes daily, focusing on beautifully presented comfort food like venison or lamb.