Lion Lodge

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become part of the pride, in a luxury lodge set within the lions' natural habitat.

Found in Hythe, on Kent's south coast, the award-winning Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve is home to over 90 different rare and endangered species of over 700 animals, in an authentic and awe-inspiring setting.

Far from a conventional zoo, you can take a safari ride through the 600-acre park and meet exceptionally well cared-for animals, including gorillas, bears, tigers, cheetah, primates, and Kent's only Rothschild giraffes.

If you'd like to take an even closer look, however, you can choose to rest your heads in one of two seriously luxurious timber lodges, Kikuyu and Jibana. Both are perfectly placed within the lions' natural habitat, for the most exceptional views you're ever likely to cast your eyes upon.

The first of their kind in the world, both lodges are stunning Manhattan loft style buildings that each sleep up to four guests.  

Each feature gigantic picture windows in the master bedroom and in the sumptuous open-plan living area. Perfect for watching the lives of the resident lions play out right in front of you, as they take care of their three adorable cubs.

The living area, designed by Victoria Aspinall of The Aspinall Foundation, is luxuriously equipped with a huge open fireplace, bespoke furnishings, and irresistibly comfy seating. With a glittering, wow-factor chandelier, and a custom-designed bar also at your disposal, you're sure to feel like a film star on safari-vacation.

Further along, the elegant kingsize master bedroom showcases incredible views of the lions' habitat, while a spiral staircase leads up to a mezzanine room with two cosy single beds.

Freshen up in the industrial-chic wet room, with its indulgent monsoon shower and high-end toiletries. Or for a special treat, why not take a soak in the wood-heated Scandinavian outdoor bath, set on a raised, secluded platform that overlooks the lions?  The choice is yours!

Enjoy morning coffee in your private garden, overlooking the wildlife reserve and with refreshing views of the Kent Coast. If you're in the mood to explore, simply hop on a golf buggy and do just that, enjoying access to areas of the reserve before it opens to the general public. You can also stroll through landscaped gardens, visit the enthralling Dinosaur Forest - complete with life-size prehistoric creatures - and admire panoramic views from the Trojan steps.

When it's time to dine, you can head to one of the many on-site restaurants and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner - or even a languorous afternoon tea - at your leisure.

Perhaps best of all, the profits from your stay at Lion Lodge will directly contribute to returning endangered animals back to their natural environment. So, you can relax and enjoy a true bucket list experience, safe in the knowledge that it's also doing some serious good.

Things to note

The profits from your stay contribute directly to the Aspinall Foundation, which is dedicated to returning captive bred animals to protected wilderness areas and reserves around the world.