Leobo Private Reserve, South Africa
Observatory Bush Villa
Surrounded by the diverse Waterberg region and overlooking the Palala Valley lies Leobo Private Reserve, a 12 000-acre estate encompassing rugged rocks, bushveld savannah, natural streams and an abundance of wildlife.
Teeming with plains game, birdlife and a crocodile named Stevie, there are no time constraints, no rules (except safety) and no limits. It is one of only a handful of sole-use private reserves in South Africa allowing guests full access to the entire estate and all its facilities.
The Observatory - designed by award-winning architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens - is a masterpiece, ideal for couples or for families. This remarkable house is state of the art, with breath taking views and the ultimate in luxury. Serviced by a butler, maid and chef, it also has a heated infinity pool and jacuzzi on the roof. There is an automated Observatory that is perfect for stargazing.
The Observatory is booked on an exclusivity basis only. It can accommodate a maximum of 9 people (6 adults and 3 children). Supplementary rooms for additional guests, family or nannies are available at Leobo Lodge which sleeps a maximum of 18 (14 adults and 4 children).
Complete privacy and exclusivity is what Leobo Private Reserve is all about.
All bedrooms and bathrooms are luxurious spaces. Both main bathrooms have baths and showers and the master bedroom features an outdoor shower. Towels, slippers and robes are provided and all electrical outlets cater for appliances from the UK, South Africa and Europe. Each bedroom has a private safe.
The astounding expanse of the living area allows guests to enjoy an uninterrupted panorama. The veranda leads to a heated infinity pool which blends in beautifully with its natural surroundings. You can relax in comfortable sun beds and enjoy the best Africa has to offer. The deck has a covered veranda where guests can unwind (or doze) in front of an open fire in the evenings.
Whether you’re dining under the chandelier or relaxing in front of the fire, the open spaces are perfect for entertaining and relaxing. There is a mezzanine level ideal for children and, provides an entertainment space for TV or games, furnished with enormous cushions and fur throws.
A flight of stairs will take you to the sun deck. With its comfortable sofas, it is a wonderful place to enjoy a drink. On cooler evenings, you can relax in the jacuzzi and take in the panoramic views of the Palala Valley
The Dome houses a fully automated 20-inch telescope. Due to the reserve’s remote location, the sky is extraordinarily clear. A local astronomer can be booked for starlit safaris or, for the more experienced user, we have a selection of state-of-the-art astrophotography equipment for deep sky imaging.
Nestled under the dome of the Observatory, the library has two levels separated by a staircase. You’re welcome to enjoy any of our books during your stay. This space is also an office, with an open fireplace for relaxing with a drink.
Gourmet meals are created by a renowned and expert chef who will be flown in especially to cook epicurean cuisine meeting every guest’s preference and requirement. Fresh, local produce is used. A butler is also on hand to attend to all beverages and to administrate the household staff.
Activities include thermal imaging equipment for night time game viewing, 4 x quad bikes, 2 x 700cc racing quad bikes, and an electric camouflage golf buggy. If you want to add to the sounds of the bushveld, there is a multi-room music system and a starlight safari by local astronomer Dr Phil Calcot will captivate you, as he picks out the various planets and stars with a high powered laser pointer.
Target shooting with sniper rifles is an exhilarating activity overseen by an expert ranger; if guests prefer a quieter pastime, there is excellent bass fishing in the nearby dams, accompanied by the sounds of the laughing hippos dotting the water’s surface.
The estate’s private helicopter can be booked for airport collections or for a heady chopper ride to spy a variety of game. Guests can be dropped off at assorted locations for a gourmet picnic.
The emphasis at The Observatory is on a personal experience as opposed to a more commercial one found in any other luxury hotel in the world. The Observatory affords the guest the opportunity to get involved in exciting escapades on offer.
The sheer freedom of going off on your own expedition to explore the surroundings and doing what the spur of the moment offers is exhilarating in itself. This differentiates this particular destination from all others and makes the adventure that much greater.
| Project ID: | R27 |
| Location: | Waterberg region, South Africa 3h drive North of Johannesburg |
| Main house sleeps: | 9 guests |
| Guest lodge: | 18 guests |
| Other: | private infinity pool, research-grade Observatory, fully staffed including Game Ranger, 360 views of the game reserve, private library |