Tongabezi, a “green” lodge upstream from Victoria Falls, has opened a new chalet called the Dog House that has top views over Zambezi river.
Sprawling over 3,875 square feet, the Dog House has two very large bedrooms, a dining/living area between the bedrooms, a double-sided fireplace and a small infinity plunge pool edging the river. (Cool detail: Because the bedrooms are raised nine feet, they appear to float over the water.) There is also a bar in the shape of a sword fish, crafted from the prow of an Indonesian boat.
The Dog House can be used as a two-bedroom suite or, by closing off one bedroom, as a one-bedroom suite. Like all the houses at Tongabezi, the new chalet comes with a valet. It is a good fit for families of up to five or for two couples traveling together—either booking entitles guests to a private vehicle, boat and guide.
Decorative touches include gauzy curtains wrapped with shell, bead and rope ties; a “petaled” light sculpture beside a claw-foot tub; and pillows embroidered with beads.
Best of all, in keeping with Tongabezi’s “green” ethos, the timber was supplied from sustainable forests in the Copper Belt. Still and sparkling water is bottled through the Vivreau system (saving 20,000 plastic bottles and 2,000 tin cans every year). All water used is run through a purification plant and used for irrigation.
For reservations contact [email protected] or visit www.tongabezi.com.