Matador Network's Blog, page 357
January 11, 2023
At This South African Safari Lodge You Can Take Breakfast With Elephants
Imagine waking in one of the most spectacular game parks, Kruger National Park, in South Africa to a herd of elephants outside your terrace. This is the view guests at Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge are welcomed with. At this world-renowned luxury safari lodge, you don’t need to go far to view some of Africa’s Big Five.
@epic.stays Imagine waking up to a heard of elephants outside your doorstep
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge in #Mpumalanga #SouthAfrica
@olweV2 #traveltok #elephants #safarilodge #travelafrica #africahotelguide ♬ original sound – sl0w sl0w
About Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
The lodge is located in the Greater Kruger Park in South Africa. It’s nestled between two hills and overlooks an open savannah plain. As one of South Africa’s most renowned and luxurious private game reserves, Sabi Sabi offers a unique and unforgettable safari experience with exceptional wildlife sightings, guided activities, and authentic African hospitality.
Suites at Earth LodgeHome to 13 ultra-luxurious suites, the lodge is ideal for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience. Each unique build has spectacular views of the African bush, elegantly designed interiors, and all the luxuries one could expect from a five-star lodge.
Huge windows look out onto a private terrace with a plunge pool. It’s here that guests rave about enjoying a delicious breakfast with the backdrop of a herd of elephants grazing at the nearby waterhole.
What to do at Sabi Sabi Earth LodgeSafari is, of course, the main reason people stay with the Sabi Sabi group. The safari tours are world-renowned. Each morning and evening guests depart from the luxury lodge into the wilderness either on foot or in a vehicle with a knowledgeable game ranger and Shangaan tracker.
Between safari, the Sabi Sabi complex is home to a huge amount of amenities from a kitted-out gym, a world-class spa, an art gallery, an underground wine cellar, and a library. 
Hidden Down Secret Stairs This 16-Century Italian Suite Has an Underground Cave Pool
In Lecce, a city in the region of Apulia, in southern Italy, a 16th-century palace-turned-hotel has one of the most unique suites we’ve ever seen. Pollicastro Boutique Hotel’s Grand Deluxe Nymphaeum Suite holds a secret. Narrow stairs lead guests underground into the bathroom cave that overlooks a sunken swimming pool.
We hope you love Pollicastro Boutique Hotel. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.
@epic.stays This is the Grand Deluxe Nymphaeum Suite With Underground Cave Pool at the
The city of Lecce is known for its Baroque architecture and historic monuments. It was founded by the Romans in the third century BC and later became a significant hub during the Middle Ages. Despite being relatively small, it is considered one of the most interesting and beautiful cities in Italy. Lecce has undergone a huge amount of restoration. The majority of ancient buildings and streets are very well preserved. As is the Pollicastro Boutique Hotel.
About Pollicastro Boutique HotelThroughout its existence, this elegant and refined hotel has been lovingly restored and maintained, preserving its traditional charm while adding all the necessary modern comforts. Today, the restored palace stands proud as a symbol of old-world Italian luxury — with stunning original frescoes adorning its walls and spacious light-filled rooms looking out over the surrounding cityscape.
The Grand Deluxe Nymphaeum Suite at Pollicastro Boutique Hotel
Photo: Booking.com
Located on the hotel’s third floor, The Grand Deluxe Nymphaeum Suite sprawls over two levels. It retains original 16-century stonework and artwork on the walls and ceiling. The elegant living area looks out over the city and the plush king-sized bed, adorned with Italian linens frames the room.
Photo: Booking.com
Down a narrow stone-clad staircase is the underground bathroom. It’s here where guests are welcomed by a huge rainshower, twin sinks, and their own private cave swimming pool. Adorned in blue lights, the sunken pool has a comfortable sitting area where guests can relax in the calming aqua haze.
Dining at Pollicastro Boutique Hotel
Photo: Booking.com
The on-site restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Italian cuisine and international dishes including mouthwatering appetizers, homemade pasta, and pizzas cooked in an authentic wood oven. Guests rave about the breakfast buffet which offers a huge selection of local meats, cheeses, homemade bread, and preserves.
What to do near Pollicastro Boutique HotelFrom exploring Lecce’s historical walls and monuments to discovering local cuisine or shopping at Lecce’s characteristic boutiques, Pollicastro Boutique Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the ancient city. Here are a few of the must-see attractions.
Explore the historical center of Lecce and marvel at its Baroque architecture.Take a stroll through Piazza Sant’Oronzo, the main square of the city lined with 16th-century buildings and statues.Admire artwork inside Cathedral di Lecce.Enjoy some delicious regional food such as ciceri e tria pasta and the traditional Italian savory treat Rustico.Relax in one of many beautiful gardens.Enjoy an afternoon at Lecce’s flea markets and antique shops.More like thisDessertThis Pastry Shop in Naples Makes the Most Chocolaty Pancakes You’ll Ever Taste
January 10, 2023
This National Monument Offers Amazing Stargazing Views
Have you ever dreamt of spending an evening stargazing amongst the majestic cliffs of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument? Located in northern Arizona, this national monument is one of the best places to enjoy a night under the stars. Not only is it a beautiful destination, but it’s also one of the best places in the United States for stargazing.
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is located in northern Arizona, just south of the Utah border. It has nearly 300,000 acres of stunning red-rock canyons, sandstone cliffs, and desert wilderness. With its unique location away from major cities and towns, it’s one of the darkest spots in the state. Light pollution is virtually non-existent.
@matadornetwork The #VermilionCliffs in #Arizona are a great place to spot the #milkyway
On any night, you can expect to see hundreds of stars twinkling above you, along with planets like Venus or Jupiter depending on the season. Additionally, many different types of constellations, comets, and planets are visible here throughout the year – so no matter when you visit, the sky will be filled with plenty of fascinating sights.
Before heading out on your stargazing adventure, plan ahead and bring all necessary supplies and gear. It’s important to dress appropriately for the weather and bring plenty of warm layers – temperatures can drop significantly after sunset in this part of Arizona. Make sure to pack other necessities such as flashlights, binoculars, or telescopes to red lights (to preserve your night vision) and star charts — having all these items handy will make sure your time spent stargazing in The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument goes off without a hitch!
How To Get ThereVermilion Cliffs is about two hours from Flagstaff in northern Arizona. The easiest way to get there is by car – just follow Highway 89 North until you reach Mile Marker 93, where you will turn right onto BLM Road 1030 (also known as House Rock Valley Road). From there, it’s only a short drive until you reach Vermilion Cliffs itself – be sure to enjoy all the incredible scenery along the way.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience under a star-filled sky, then Vermilion Cliffs in Arizona is worth considering. With its night skies and remote location free from light pollution, this area offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities–whether observing constellations or spotting distant planets and comets.
Pamukkale Thermal Pools
In the Denizli province of southwestern Türkiye, , there exists one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes: Pamukkale. Translated as “cotton castle” in Turkish due to the bright white color of limestone landscape, Pamukkale features a series of thermal pools that fill the basins of cascading travertine terraces that were formed by centuries of calcite-rich water flowing down the hillside.
Otherworldly Pamukkale is one of the most popular attractions in Turkey outside of Istanbul’s worldly wonders and cosmopolitan neighborhoods. With that popularity comes significant crowds — one thing many of the viral videos and photos of the thermal pools fail to show. So if you plan on visiting the striking site anytime soon, be sure to get there early to avoid an Instagram-versus-reality-style letdown.
@matadornetwork When visiting #Pamukkale in #Türkiye go as early as possible to avoid the crowds#turkey #turkeytravel #instagramvsreality #vacation ♬ original sound – Rich Kids of London
Tips for visiting to the Pamukkale thermal pools
The nearest city to Pamukkale is Denizli — roughly 11 miles away — which has frequent minibusses running from the local bus station to the pools. If you’re staying elsewhere, you can either take a bus to Denizli or rent a car and drive all the way to Pamukkale. By car, the beach resorts of Kusadasi and Antalya are about 2.5 and 3.5 hours away, respectively, and the port city of Bodrum is roughly four hours away.
There are three entrances to the Pamukkale thermal pools: the Pamukkale town entrance, the North entrance, and the South entrance. The town entrance is the most scenic. If you rented a car, you can park in a lot by the entrance for a small fee of roughly $1 and then walk up the terraces in your bare feet — no shoes allowed — for 20 to 30 minutes.
Because of the crowds, the best way to experience the thermal pools is to spend the night in Pamukkale town and wake up early — the majority of the tours and day-trippers don’t arrive until later in the day. Pamukkale opens at 6:30 AM during the summer season (April 1 to October 1) and at 8 AM during the winter season (October 1 to April 1).
Before you leave the area, be sure to visit Cleopatra’s Pool, as well. While Cleopatra’s Pool, also known as the Antique Pool, is not part of the travertine terraces, it’s located within the Hierapolis-Pamukkale UNESCO World Heritage site, which includes ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman spa town of Hierapolis where this pool is located — legend has it that Marc Anthony created it for Cleopatra as a gift, hence the name.
Exploring Flathead Lake and Its Colorful Pebbles
Flathead Lake, a beautiful glacial lake stretching 200 square miles, is nestled in the mountainous terrain of northwestern Montana. With its crystal blue waters, glimmering pebbles, and breathtaking views, this lake will mesmerize you with its beauty.
Flathead Lake is a natural wonder that cannot be missed. The terrain surrounding Flathead is diverse and varied; visitors can hike up a mountain peak, explore dense forests, and take a stroll along its crystal-clear shoreline. In addition to its breathtaking landscape, the lake also offers unparalleled sunrises and sunsets.
@matadornetwork Did you know #FlatheadLake in #Montana is filled with colorful pebbles?
One of the lake’s most unique features is its unusual pebbles. The pebbles found here mainly comprise quartzite and chert, which come in various colors, including white, pink, red, and black. The colors are primarily due to the iron oxide present in the rock. These unique pieces of nature can be found around Flathead Lake, but they are especially abundant near the shorelines, where waves have deposited them over time.
In addition to their unique coloration, these pebbles also have an interesting texture thanks to being shaped by centuries worth of wave action. While on the beach, you might find some smooth stones here and there, and most pebbles are worn down into fascinating shapes with rounded edges.
Not only can you visit Flathead for its stunning scenery and unique pebbles, but there is also a multitude of activities such as water skiing, sailing, and fishing, or you can set up camp at the many campgrounds on the shorelines.
Flathead Lake is home to some truly stunning scenery—but there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to this remarkable destination. Whether you’re exploring Flathead Lake’s colorful array of pebbles, looking for an afternoon spent fishing, or a week-long camping trip under starry skies, this region has something special for everyone who visits it.
Dolphin Stampedes Are a Thing, and They’re Pretty Freaking Epic
Dolphins aren’t the first mammals that come to mind when you think of stampedes, but dolphins do, in fact, stampede. And it’s one of nature’s most spectacular sights. There’s something magical about spotting hundreds of dolphins swimming in unison that just can’t be replicated anywhere else — just take a look at the video filmed in Southern California below. If you’re curious about what causes this mesmerizing and confounding behavior, read on to learn everything we know — and don’t know — about dolphin stampedes.
@visitSpectacular sighting of a long-beaked common dolphin “stampede” off the Southern California coast.
What are dolphin stampedes?
Dolphin stampedes are when dolphins swim side by side in large groups, usually numbering in the hundreds and possibly even thousands. It almost looks like they’re racing each other, occasionally leaping out of the water in a maneuver known as “porpoising” that allows them to gain incredible momentum. Dolphin stampedes typically happen relatively close to shore due to the presence of food sources like fish, which draw dolphins closer to land. They also occur when there are large schools of fish nearby, which become an irresistible snack for dolphins.
Why do dolphin stampedes happen?It’s still unclear why, exactly, large groups of dolphins stampede, but it could be related to the need for safety in numbers or because the dolphins are chasing prey together — or both. There have been many theories proposed over the years but no definitive explanation of the phenomenon. Whatever the reason may be, one thing remains true: Watching a huge group of dolphins swimming together in synchronicity is an experience that cannot be conveyed through words alone — you simply have to witness it yourself.
Where can you see dolphin stampedes?Dolphin stampedes can be witnessed pretty much anywhere there’s a body of water with abundant populations of dolphins and fish. However, some areas are better than others for viewing this amazing spectacle — in Southern California, for example, such as in the video above that captures a massive pod of dolphins stampeding off the coast of San Diego. While you might have luck in other popular dolphin-watching locales such as Australia and New Zealand, Southern California’s waters are said to have more dolphins per square mile than anywhere else on Earth — so that’s a pretty good place to book a dolphin cruise if you’re hoping to see a dolphin stampede in person.
Old Harry Rocks May Be the Coolest Place To Go Kayaking in England
Old Harry Rocks is a natural landmark on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, England. It consists of tall, tower-like chalk formations subjected to several million years’ worth of erosion by powerful sea waves, which gives them their unique shape. They’re some of the most dramatic features along England’s southern coastline.
The rocks are visible from many miles away and form part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Old Harry Rocks has become an important tourist attraction due to its unique geological characteristics and stunning views across the English Channel. Visitors can admire the views of the white cliffs, observe local wildlife such as seals and seabirds, go kayaking or coasteering (a mix of rock scrambling and cliff jumping), or explore nearby attractions including Corfe Castle and Swanage Beach.
Why are they called “Old Harry Rocks?
Photo: Andy Lyons/Shutterstock
You may think the name was originally “Old Hairy,” for moss or plants growing on the rocks. But it’s always been “Old Harry,” and no one knows why.
The name “Old Harry Rocks” has been attributed to various sources. It’s possible it was named after an old sailor who used to take refuge in the caves of Old Harry Rocks when the weather was too bad for sailing. It is also thought to be named after King Henry VIII, as old maps suggest he owned the area and had a hunting lodge nearby. And some people say it’s based on an even older legend: the grassy area just above the cliffs is called “Old Nick’s Ground,” because, according to some legends, the Devil himself (known locally as “Old Nick”) once took a nap there. Whatever the origin of its name, Old Harry Rocks will always remain an iconic landmark in Dorset, providing beautiful views and inspiring visitors from near and far.
Hiking, paddling, and tours
Photo: DavidYoung/Shutterstock
Old Harry Rocks is a great place for hikers of all levels. There are plenty of easy walks along the coast, as well as more challenging hikes up and around the rocks themselves. The views from these paths are spectacular and can be accessed year-round, although some routes may not be accessible during bad weather or high tides. Popular hikes include the South West Coast Path, the Old Harry to Studland Bay Walk, and the old smugglers’ route from Swanage.
For a unique way to explore the site, kayaking is an excellent option. Fluid Adventures runs six-to-eight hour tours for paddlers with prior kayaking experience, and H2O Adventures runs a similar half-day tour. On these tours, guides will take visitors to the best views and share insight into the cultural and natural heritage of the rocks. During these trips, you may be able to spot wildlife such as seals, seabirds and dolphins.
If you don’t have paddling experience, you can still take a boat tour from City Cruises. The one-hour tours start in the town of Poole and include narration from your skipper as you head out to the sea the rocks, only you don’t have to paddle, and there’s often a bar on board. It’s a bit more of a leisurely experience.
Namibia’s Sossusvlei Is Full of Skeleton Trees and Neon Orange Dunes
Sossusvlei is a salt–and-clay-pan (a section of desert covered in minerals) in the heart of Namibia‘s Namib Desert. It’s considered to be one of the most iconic and beautiful desert landscapes in all of Africa, with giant sand dunes that are some of the tallest in the world. Sossusvlei is also home to some of the oldest living plants on Earth, including over 2,000 year old Welwitschia mirabilis trees.
Visitors can witness the spectacular, bright-red-and-orange desert on foot or via four-wheel drive vehicles. With its unique combination of red sand dunes, dusty salt pans, ancient fossils and soaring mountains, the desert offers a chance to explore one of the most sweeping areas of the planet. And Hollywood agrees — you may recognize it from movies like Mad Max: Fury Road.
Famous sites in Sossusvlei
Photo: Beate Wolter/Shutterstock
Sossusvlei is home to many famous sites, including Sesriem Canyon, Deadvlei and Sossusvlei itself. Sesriem Canyon is a steep gorge carved by the Tsauchab River over millions of years. The canyon walls reach heights up to 100 feet and can be explored on foot or with a 4×4 vehicle. Deadvlei is an ancient clay pan filled with dead acacia trees whose white trunks stand out against the surrounding red sand dunes, and Sossusvlei itself is a sparkling clay pan surrounded by some of the tallest sand dunes in the world. (The whole desert area is referred to as Sossusvlei, by the way).
Visitors can climb these dunes for breathtaking views of the otherworldly landscapes, or take advantage of adventure activities like sandboarding and hot air balloon rides.
How did the desert form?
Photo: R.M.Nunes/Shutterstock
Sossusvlei was formed by the Tsauchab River which carved Sesriem Canyon, creating an isolated basin of salt and clay. Over time, winds blew sand over higher areas of land and deposited it at the bottom of the pan. As this happened, the area gradually became filled with sand dunes that are now some of the tallest in the world. Sossusvlei has also become home to numerous species of plants and animals, including 2,000 year old Welwitchia mirabilis trees that can only be found in this unique desert environment.
How to get to SossusvleiThe best way to get to Sossusvlei is by car or 4×4. Sossusvlei is inside Namib-Naukluft National Park, accessed via the B2 (main highway) from Windhoek or Swakopmund. The drive takes about five hours and visitors must pay an entrance fee at the Sesriem gate before entering the park. There are also guided tours available from various tour operators in Windhoek or Swakopmund that include Sossusvlei as part of the itineraries. Once at Sossusvlei, visitors can explore the area on foot, by vehicle, or by hot air balloon.
The Sossusvlei entrance fee is N$80 (about $7 US) per person, and there is an additional vehicle fee of N$30 if you’re driving in. The fees help to fund conservation efforts in Namib-Naukluft National Park, so visitors can be sure that their money is going towards a good cause. You also need to get a Sossusvlei permit from the Sesriem gate (the only way into the park) for any overnight trips into the park; this costs around N$100 ($9 US) per person.
The best time to visit Sossusvlei is between April and November, when temperatures are cooler and rain is rare. This will also yield the most vibrant colors in Sossusvlei’s unique desert landscape. During the summer months (December to March), temperatures can get very hot, so visitors should be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen and try to avoid the early morning or late afternoon. .
How To Visit Mexico’s Massive Tamul Waterfall
Tamul Waterfall is in Ciudad Valles, Mexico, and near some of the country’s best “magic towns.” It’s one of the most spectacular waterfalls on the Huasteca River and attracts visitors from all over the world. Visitors take boat tours to get close to the falls, though you can also hike to the base to get a closer look at the cascading waters. Or, you can take a helicopter tour and see the spectacular site from above.
Tamul Waterfall has been declared as a protected natural area due to its significant biodiversity and importance as a vital source of water for local communities. It’s a poopular tourist destination for canoeing, swimming, and cliff jumping near Ciudad Valles.
The best time to visitThough it may seem counterintuitive, avoid the rainy season. The river gets too high and roads too muddy, making a visit dangerous. The best time to visit is usually November through March. April and May are still good, though the falls may be a little less impressive than normal as that’s the end of the dry season.
How to reach Ciudad VallesCiudad Valles is located in the Mexican state of San Luis Potosi. The city is easily accessible by car and by plane. It’s a two-hour drive from San Luis Potosi or Tampico, and by plane, you can fly there from international airports in Mexico City or Monterrey. There are also domestic flights available from other cities within Mexico including Guadalajara, Durango, Chihuahua and more.
How was Tamul waterfall formed?Tamul Waterfall was formed millions of years ago by the constant erosion of the Huasteca River. Over time, water from the river carved out large canyons in the cliffs along its course, eventually creating the falls. The falls are an impressive sight, with a pool at the base and walls that reach over 850 feet high. It is an important source of natural beauty for the region and continues to be enjoyed by visitors from all over the world. Nearby are centotes and caves, plus Tamazunchale, a town first founded by indigenous populations more than 1000 years ago.
Tours to Tamul Waterfall
Photo: Nailol/Shutterstock
There are a few tour options for visiting Tamul waterfall. Companies like Huaxteca offer all-day tours where you’ll paddle to the falls and also get a chance to swim in the river and check out some nearby cenotes. They also offer rappelling tours in the canyon area. Most tour guiding companies in the area will offer a tour to the Tamul Waterfall, and booking via WhatsApp or Facebook is super common. So if you don’t want to plan a tour in advance, just ask your hotel or stop by a tourist office when you get to Cuidad Valles.
If you drive yourself to Tamul waterfall, you can just book your boat or hiking tour when you arrive.
Hiking to the waterfallIf you’d rather reach Tamul waterfall on foot, there are several tour operators that offer hikes to the base. You can book a guided tour from the town of Ciudad Valles, which will take care of all your transportation and logistics. However, you can also drive yourself to the falls and sign up for a hike at the falls info booth. The cost is usually about $50, so if you have more people, you’ll each pay less.
You’ll follow your guide down a road to reach the trailhead, then start the roughly 30-minute hike to reach a lookout point at the top of the falls. From there, you can climb to the bottom of the falls, but make sure you have good shoes and use the handrails mounted in some places. Always bring a life vest if you plan to do any swimming in the river.
Cost to visit Tamul WaterfallPhoto: Ruby Rodriguez Martinez/Shutterstock
The cost of visiting Tamul Waterfall depends on the type of tour and mode of transportation. Boat trips to Tamul are usually between $25-45 USD, depending on the number of people in the group. Guided hikes generally cost between $20-35 USD per person, while self-guided hikes typically cost around $10-15 USD for the entry fee. Tours leaving from further away with longer drives or more stops will, understandably, be more expensive.
This Is What It’s Like To Sleep Under the Stars in Wadi Rum, Jordan
Wadi Rum is a stunning desert landscape located in the south of Jordan. It has been inhabited for thousands of years, and its ancient rock formations, towering sandstone mountains, and crystal-clear night skies have captivated visitors from all over the world. One of the best ways to experience this otherworldly landscape and traditional bedouin lifestyle is to camp overnight at Memories Aicha Luxury Camp.
As Wadi Rum is a protected area, but this glamping hotel makes sleeping overnight in the desert accessible. Located on the edge of Wadi Rum, Memories Aicha Luxury Camp offers visitors a luxurious experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the ancient land.
We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.
@epic.stays
Glamping at Memories Aicha Luxury Camp
Photo: Booking.com
Glamping at Memories Aicha Luxury Camp allows guests to experience Wadi Rum in a unique and luxurious way. Guests can relax and unwind in the beautiful natural surroundings without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Photo: Booking.com
Every tent is individually designed, featuring stylish décor and comfortable beds. The outdoor spaces are perfect for enjoying Wadi Rum and some tents come complete with their own private terrace overlooking the valley. Or opt to stay in one of the luxurious glass domes where you will be surrounded by stars as you sleep.
The restaurant offers a range of international dishes such as steak, pasta, Arabian-style grilled meats, fresh salads, and desserts such as baklava. Guests can also enjoy themed dinners with traditional music and dancing, giving them an opportunity to experience authentic Bedouin culture in a unique setting.
What to do near Memories Aicha Luxury Camp
Photo: Booking.com
From its starring role in Lawrence of Arabia to the celebrated feature film, The Martian, Wadi Rum is renowned for its remarkable desert landscapes. For those looking to take a journey through this protected area it is recommended to plan ahead and take advantage of all that Wadi Rum has to offer.
Visitors can experience a range of activities such as camel trekking, sand-boarding, ATV quad biking, and stargazing under Wadi Rum’s dark night sky. For those who prefer something more relaxing, Memories Aicha Luxury Camp also offers yoga classes and guided hikes through Wadi Rum’s breathtaking sandstone mountains.
Matador Network's Blog
- Matador Network's profile
- 6 followers
