Our Top 5 Sundowner Spots
Hands up if you have bought a fire pit in the last few years? Africa knows a thing or two about eating outside and the hypnotism of a fire and a sunset, a sundowner.
noun: sundowner; plural noun: sundowners;
BRITISH informal
an alcoholic drink taken at sunset
What the dictionary does not tell you is half of the ingredients of the perfect sundowner is its location. It must be outdoors, and the more jaw droppingly beautiful the location, the better.
Here we pair our Top 5 Sundowner Locations in Africa with their perfect drink.
Cocktails in Kenya
Immerse yourself in the golden age of safari at Cottar's 1920s Camp. It's a marvellous mix of cream canvas tents, antique and contemporary furnishings and timeless elegance: classic Hollywood. What could be more perfect than an East African Dawa? Its name originates from the Swahili word for medicine, its principal ingredients are: vodka (for pain), lemon (for infection) and honey (to take away the taste of the other two).
Champagne in the Sabi Sand
In the Sabi Sand, Charl Brink and his team at Chitwa Chitwa have completely redefined the sundowner experience. A specially converted food truck called Hlangano serves fresh pizza, whilst guests are delighted with a huge selection craft beers. We have also heard that Charl has learnt the art of sabrage, a technique for opening a Champagne bottle with a saber, used for ceremonial and special occasions.
Gin & Tonic on the Zambezi
The Zambezi Queen on Chobe River is the perfect location for a sundowner. Whilst most other boats need to leave the park, the Zambezi Queen is perfectly positioned to enjoy the sunset on the water. The reflection of clouds, sunset, water and trees make for some of the most spectacular sunsets we have ever experienced. What could be more perfect here than a classic G&T? The chosen drink of the colonial British who believed that the medicinal qualities of the quinine in the tonic would prevent malaria. Today's tonics are unlikely to contain enough quinine, but the tradition still lives on.
Rum Cocktails on the beach
Why not head to the beach after your safari. The west coast of Mauritius offers some fantastic sunsets and where could be more perfect than the Royal Palm to enjoy them. Overlooking one of the most spectacular beaches in Mauritius, the hotel's main bar breathes elegance and gentility. Located at the heart of the hotel, the bar has commanding views of the beach and sea below. The cocktail list is extensive, but we cannot think of a more perfect drink that a cocktail blended with one of the local rums such the famous Chamarel Rum.
And it isn't just about safaris and beaches.
Sip South African Wines with THE view of Cape Town
The new Silo Hotel in Cape Town has a spectacular pool and bar on the roof. Exclusively available to residents and guests, the rooftop has a 360 degree view of Cape Town and its harbour. Only an hour away from the Cape Winelands, and with an extensive winelist and cellar, we can't think of anything more appropriate than a South African Wine or a sparkling Methode Cap Classique.
Tempted for that sundowner yet? As they say, it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere.
CONTACT US
Call us on 01904 866 033 or email: africa@knightonreeve.co.uk
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