Heuglin’s Lodge, Lilongwe, Malawi

Location

Just minutes away from the city, travellers can easily enjoy the quiet capital’s cafés and international restaurant scene or make trips to bustling local markets and stores. A popular way of seeing the city is walking, or hiring a bike from the lodge, and traversing one of the many suburban circuits. There are also self-guided treks through Lilongwe wildlife centre – Malawi’s only rehabilitation centre for rescued animals. For those wanting a more relaxed experience, there are the trappings of the lake shore and its café culture.

Accommodation

As a converted townhouse, the lodge and its attentive staff do everything to make this a true home away from home. With only nine tastefully furnished rooms, the lodge’s intimate atmosphere centres on the eclectically decorated lounge and dining areas. Creature comforts in the form of superfast WiFi and satellite television in every room ensure that the lodge is a welcome respite between African safaris and flights.

Dining

A fully catered-for experience, meals are served on the verandah overlooking the pool and lodge gardens. A varied selection of home-cooked cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients is prepared daily to meet guest needs. Expect creative three-course meals as standard. In the city, thanks to a temperate climate and leafy locale, locals and tourists alike enjoy al fresco dining in a variety of international restaurants. There is a richly diverse expatriate community, so everything from Korean and Chinese to Italian and Indian cuisine is on offer. Of course, unique Malawian dining opportunities are readily available – and highly recommended.

Facilities

The beautiful gardens and large pool keep guests coming back to catch glimpses of robins and elusive finches. An extensive wildlife library helps you bone up on your ornithological knowledge as well and, to round off the laid-back atmosphere, the bar operates on an honesty policy. The lodge also runs organised trips to see the fine craftsmanship of local potters and the historic Mua Mission, home to Malawi’s finest museum of tribal art and school of woodcarving.