FRESH NEW LOOK: SINGITA CASTLETON

Surrounded by 45,000-acres of untouched wilderness in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Reserve, Singita Castleton is steeped in history as the former home of the grandfather of Singita’s Founder, Luke Bailes.

The property has recently undergone a design refresh which ensures that all future guests will benefit from the highest levels of utmost privacy from deep in the African bush.

The new look means that the exclusive-use villa now includes a brand-new yoga pavilion alongside its state-of-the-art and fully equipped fitness centre as well as double and single massage treatment rooms which can be accessed through a private walkway in its tranquil gardens. The property’s impressive wine cellar has been expanded and is now conveniently located adjacent to the dining room and lounge. It houses an impressive collection of the finest, most sought-after South African vintages and is the perfect setting for pre-dinner tastings under the guidance of Singita’s knowledgeable sommelier.

Many antiques and furnishings of the original homestead have been refashioned, adding a modern touch to this authentic farmhouse, while the living areas extend outdoors onto deep, covered verandas overlooking a busy waterhole nearby where game regularly gather to drink. The outdoor boma not only provides uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape, but also offers an idyllic fireside dinner under a canopy of stars before enjoying a taste of traditional local dishes prepared by Singita’s award-winning culinary team.

The reserve’s wildlife is protected by the Singita Lowveld Trust, an independent non-profit fund, operating a highly skilled canine anti-poaching unit manned 24/7 to protect the area. Singita also partakes in various community partnership programmes within the reserve including 20 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres which are supported with nearly 2,500 children per year that benefit from these programmes.

As part of Singita’s Private Villa Collection, guests of Singita Castleton will have access to exclusive comforts such as a private game-viewing vehicle and a personal staff team including a Field Guide, private chef and host. Game drives, mealtimes and activities are entirely according to travellers’ own preferences giving them complete freedom to design their days as they wish.

The ultimate bush escape for families and groups of friends, Singita Castleton offers numerous opportunities for shared activities – from boules to tennis, cricket and a private pool, combining the best elements of an authentic safari with the rustic charm of a farmhouse. The main house is made up of beautifully designed communal living spaces, and cottages accommodating a maximum of 12 guests on an exclusive-use basis.

Singita, www.singita.com

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