.jpg)
The Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, located near Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park on the slopes of Sabyinyo volcano, is the ultimate destination for luxury. With all the trappings needed for people who have absolutely no desire to camp or even come close to the concept, this lodge fuses five-star amenities and accommodations with the ability to connect with the glorious nature around you.
On a recent stay, it was evident that the young couple from Kenya who manage the property accept nothing but the best for their guests, once guests actually reach the Promised Land. At the base of the lodge, visitors are handed walking sticks. This came as an immediate surprise to me. How far could the hotel be up this hill that we need a walking stick to get there? I thought we had arrived. No, we hadn’t. I was almost there, but was tasked with ascending a fairly steep ravine to get to the lodge and my private bungalow. The hotel bellman threw my bags (two of them weighing at least 15 pounds a piece) on top of his shoulders and bounded-up the slope as if it took no effort whatsoever. I realized, in that moment, that I needed to run, not walk, back to the gym once I returned home. But, that’s okay. The hike up the mini mountain was worth it. Once atop the hill, I had entered a zone of absolute bliss.
The private bungalows that make up the “rooms” of the hotel are beautiful. Roaring fireplaces, large wooden beds, dream-like mattresses and huge stone bathrooms fool you into thinking you’re at the Four Seasons somewhere. But you’re not. You are in an even better place to truly unwind and enjoy the beauty around you. Butlers are assigned to every bungalow, and they are happy to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. Turn down service, unpacking, complimentary laundry – the details shine here.
Our favorite part of Sabyinyo was the food. The food cannot be compared to anything else in the area. Homemade pastas, delicate fish, and delicious local desserts – you could easily gain ten pounds here if it weren’t for all the trekking up and down mountains. My favorite dish is the lodge’s homemade pasta with shredded chicken and fresh mushrooms, heavenly.
For anyone looking to reconnect with nature but not compromise on their level of comfort – You won’t find a better option than Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge.
