Book at least a day ahead to stay at this four-room guesthouse owned by British-Malawian couple Tom and Petal. Woodcarvings and Tom's artwork decorate the Afro-chic rooms, and candles, paraffin and solar power light the off-the-grid property. Hike up to the plateau or wander the 8-hectare grounds, with its 3.5km of walking trails and indigenous rainforest along the stream.
Meals incorporate produce from local subsistence farmers, and trips to off-the-beaten-track sights can be arranged, making the lodge a wonderful place to experience rural Malawi. It's signposted 3.5km (20 minutes' drive) from the main road up to the plateau, and accessible by 2WD car.