This looks like a good excuse to visit Kenya: Marasa Africa, a member of the Madhvani Group of Companies, has completed a total refurbishment of the historic Aberdare Country Club. The completion coincides with the 75th anniversary of the original structure, a mansion called "Steep," owned by one of the British ex-pats who settled in and around Nairobi. Prior to Marasa, ACC was a Fairmont Hotel.
The Aberdare Country Club is set on the crest of a hill in a wildlife sanctuary that covers the higher areas of the heavily-forested Aberdare Mountain range of central Kenya. We hear the refurbishment maintains the English country club look and the "decadent" 1930s colonial high-life atmosphere. Cottages are set into the hillside with views of the lodge’s landscaping and a panorama of the mountains beyond.
Rooms and suites have fireplaces, and beds are warmed with hot water bottles on chilly evenings. The club has 19 two-bedroom cottages, twins and doubles, plus one three-bedroom and one five-bedroom cottage. In addition, there is one very deluxe suite, making a total of 47 rooms.
Common areas that have been refurbished include the bar, reception area, swimming pool and conference room. A Health Club with gym and yoga areas is a new addition as is a VIP suite replete with self-contained kitchen. Other upgrades include renovation of the riding stables, bringing the nine-hole golf course up to standard, and re-stocking the game sanctuary with a greater variety of wildlife. (Cool touch: Golf carts are available for guests staying in the elevated cottages.)
Activities include day and night game drives, nature walks, golf, gym, sauna, steam and massage, tennis, horseback riding and swimming in a heated pool.