A coffee farm stood here once a colonial time ago, and this little luxury lodge reflects that heritage. There are still fragrant acres of coffee alongside the shore of a deep and distinctively beautiful lake, and the generous private decks of each of the 18 rooms at Lake Duluti Lodge have been designed to make the most of these romantic views, looking out over the indigenous trees that flourish here. Back inside, large beds lined with mosquito nets are romantically tropical and incredibly comfortable, while wooden floors and intricate rugs add to the pleasure. As do the immense showers and free-standing bathtubs.
Food is a highlight here, as the lodge has its own vegetable and herb gardens, lending a freshness to the modern African cuisine. It’s all dish up in a restaurant with lovely views of the extensive gardens and shimmering lake. Light meals can also be served shore-side or beside the refreshing outdoor pool.
An ornithologist’s paradise, the lake is more than just a dining venue. Its densely forested setting provides perfect sanctuary to herons, cormorants, dramatic fish eagles and kingfishers that flutter in iridescent feathers. A hike around the crater is full of delights too, not least for the views that can be glimpsed of Mt. Meru and iconic Kilimanjaro. Canoe trips over the silvery lake and jaunts into bustling Arusha are just as easily organised, as are bespoke massages back at the lodge after all that adventurous activity.