Bwindi Lodge, Uganda

With views out across the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, this stylish lodge is a spectacular base from which to track and meet Uganda's population of mountain gorillas.

Fully renovated in 2018, the lodge now features a redesigned lounge area complete with central fireplace, while a brand-new terrace looks out across the primeval surroundings, a great place to enjoy a drinks and spot any passing wildlife.

The lodge's eight plaster-and-timer bandas villas ooze authenticity, from their stripped-wood floors and traditional thatched roofs to their locally sourced furniture – the four-poster beds are a special highlight. Furthermore, they're all glass-fronted, offering sweeping forest views, and come with personal butler service. And, each bandas is named after one of Bwindi's gorillas – a nice touch.

Away from the rooms, guests are treated to delicious and imaginative dining, from generous breakfasts to lunches and dinners inspired by the local cuisine; expect hearty homemade soups and perfectly spiced curries among others. The hotel also hosts the occasional barbecue, weather dependent, of course.

There are marked walking trails for independent exploration of the lodge's extensive grounds. And, after tracking the region's primates, there's a spa on site to soothe any lingering aches from the day's exertions.