Hidden up a dirt track right beneath Mt Mulanje, this delightful eyrie cloaked in lush vegetation has a swimming pool (fed by fresh water from a small waterfall), a cosy thatched bar, back-up power and a long veranda to savour the wonderful views of mountains and tea estates. It's homey, welcoming and the perfect base from which to hike.
There are seven standard rooms in the main lodge, a former district commissioner's residence dating to 1905, and 20 executive chalets up the hill. Chalets are fresh, with tiled floors, vaulted thatch ceilings, attractive linen, quirky homemade furniture and bathrooms. They're also equipped with fans. Outside, the garden brims with banana and bluegum trees.
The restaurant (mains MK4000) serves steaks, chambo, curries and chicken dishes.