The Observatory living area

Observatory luxury

That afternoon, as the others set off on an exciting quad bike adventure, I decide to absorb the magnificence of The Observatory instead. Helicopter pilot David and I make ourselves comfortable by the fire as our very own personal butler serves gin and tonics. After the rain stops, I go up to the mezzanine level, which is furnished with enormous cushions and fur throws and the largest big-screen TV I have ever seen. There is a selection of games and DVDs as well for those cold, rainy nights.

The others return and its Jacuzzi time. An outer flight of stairs leads to the sunset deck where you can soak in the Jacuzzi with a drink whilst looking at the sunset or the million stars.

The following morning and the rain has vanished completely, leaving the bush with that freshly washed aroma and the bluest sky. A few of us decide to go target shooting after breakfast. This is just one of the more unusual activities offered here.

The Lodges private helicopter takes us back to Midrand on a flight that takes about an hour and flies at a leisurely pace, allowing us to see the wildlife below us.

Leoba Lodge is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the best and most unusual Lodges I have ever had the good fortune of visiting. If you want to have something to talk to your friends about for the next 10 years, this is one destination you must visit.

Activities at Leoba Lodge:

· Thermal imaging equipment for night time game viewing

· 4 x quad bikes, 2 x 700cc racing quad bikes

· Target shooting with sniper rifles

· Starlight safari by local astronomer Dr Phil Calcot

· Private helicopter game viewing

· Tracking a leopard

· Horse riding

· Bass fishing

· Should there be a bush fire in the area, Leoba can also arrange for you to help out the local fire fighters as well as darting buffalo or hippo from the air, should they need medical care from a veterinarian.

For more information go to: www.leoboprivatereserve.com

The Observatory is only booked on an exclusive basis for small groups.