Mount Kenya National Park
Sailing like an ark amid the primeval forests of Kenya's highest mountain, Mount Kenya, the timbered Serena Mountain Lodge offers champagne-clear mountain air, sweeping views across the tree-canopy, sparkling trout streams, and gentle forest walks.
Located at 2,134 metres above sea level, on the lower slopes of the mountain, the lodge is cool, tranquil and hushed for optimum game-sightings. The open-air viewing-deck looks down on to its own water hole and salt-lick, which attracts numerous herds of elephant and buffalo.
There is also a tunnel leading to a photo-hide, which offers spectacular viewing and photographic opportunities just metres away from the wildlife at the water hole.
Raised on stilts above the forest canopy, a timbered drawbridge leads from the forest and up on to the wooden 'decks' of the main lodge area. Inside, the impression of having boarded a ship is perpetuated by a combination of log panelled walls, timbered game-viewing decks.
The central dining room is raised to tree level offering long views over the forest canopy. All meals are served on a buffet basis and showcase both local and international cuisine. The panelled bar is decorated with scenes from Kikuyu life and features a central fireplace and access to the viewing platform over the waterhole.
Winding stairs from the main lodge lead to a selection of snugly comfortable, cabin-styled rooms. The 41 timber-built rooms have their own luxury en-suite bathroom and a private balcony overlooking the water hole.
The decor, which echoes the Kikuyu culture, features hand-woven wall hangings, soft lighting and cosily-warm soft furnishings.
Guests staying here can enjoy a range of activities including guided walks through the forest, trout fishing in the clear mountain streams, trips to the high moorlands of the mountain, and 5 day luxury climbs of the mountain.
