Dinner while watching an African sunset is one of life's greatest pleasures

A superb dinner followed. Superb in every sense, even had it been at a venue somewhere along the Atlantic Seaboard in Cape Town. I expected something like kudu-steak or warthog-casserole, something I am not familiar with. Kingklip, however, was as out of context as abalone in this bush environment, even though it was magnificently prepared by the talented chef. She combines nouvelle cuisine with feel-good comfort food in a masterful way. As starter, she combined plums with goats milk cheese and a sweet chili. Delicious. Her main dish of kingklip with a mildly spiced red curry sauce was succulent without being too spicy, followed by a dessert of poached pear. Animated dinner conversation, discussing the vision of Waterberg, transferred me into a haven of African solitude, away from the hustle and bustle of the city crowds and urban realities.

The following morning, nestled in the soft down folds of the white duvet, rain whispering against the large windows of the chalet, I realized that I was enfolded by an indescribably tranquil atmosphere - a cocoon of the wilds, where the birds have the freedom to sing their songs of daybreak, where the fish eagle can proclaim its territory. Where nobody intrudes the sanctuary of nature...

A scrumptious breakfast with all the trimmings awaited us, whereupon we embarked on our quad bike adventure despite the weather. The day held many adventures, including an eventful off-road game drive, ending a bit later than anticipated…

The lodge has all the other features of a superior establishment – a wellness center with therapeutic and beauty treatments; state-of-the-art conference facilities, every small detail taken care of in accommodation. The high grass roofs, stunning views of the bush and then of course the game drives make this an unforgettable getaway. There is also an elephant sanctuary and cheetah reserve nearby. But back to the golf course…

I had to appreciate the spectacularly designed course, combined with the setting in the thick of nature, which must be paradise to any discerning golfer.

Tony's favorite word for describing Shakama is simply "special." Not wonderful, spectacular or awesome. Just special. And that it is. Once you've been here, superficial concrete city life with its meaningless materialism, magically disappear - like mist before the sun.

Catering for groups of between 10 and 24 guests per reservation, Shakama offers:

- Excellent accommodation in 12 double rooms and chalets;

- State-of-the-art conference facilities seating up to 32 persons;

- Exclusive lounges, bar, dining and entertainment areas;

- Scrumptious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners specially prepared and served for each group;

- An array of leisure activities including game drives and walks; and

- Total privacy, tranquility and personal service.

Contact http://www.shakama.com/for more information.