Escape from the hustle and bustle leading to and from the Ngorongoro Crater National Park at the expansive, lush grounds of the Manor House, a quiet retreat after a long day of wildlife viewing.

Found at the end of a winding and bumpy road, the large colonial house sits atop rolling hills on a working coffee plantation, within a 1,500-hectare estate. Surrounded by the highlands that make up this unique area of Tanzania, gardens spread out over the estate and meet at the heart of the main manor house, which oozes old world charm and sophistication.

There are 19 Cape Dutch-style cottages on the property, each built as a freestanding suite rather than a room within a lodge. Each cottage has its own private entrance, which makes you feel as if you are arriving in your own little home each day. Inside you’ll find a sun terrace, elegantly comfortable sitting room, double fronted log burning fire place, huge bed and en suite bathroom.

Another unique aspect of the Manor house is the large family-style unit called the Sable house. Divided into two floors, there is enough space here to accommodate a family or a group of friends. Downstairs the unit features en-suite bathrooms with plush Victorian baths, fireplaces and rainfall showers, built around a wonderfully comfortable communal area. An entire upstairs is devoted to accommodating the kids, and includes a bathroom, bedrooms and a playroom.

The main dining are stretches along the outside patio of the main house, and the food is hearty and delicious without being overly fussy. If you fancy, there is also a private wine cellar, a large billiard room and a movie theater found beneath the main lounge areas.

There are more than enough activities to keep you occupied if the outdoors calls, including plantation tours, mountain biking and horse riding — a real must — where you can end the day in the plantation fields with a candlelit cocktail. Or go on safari, then take advantage of the large pool and spa area to wash off any of the crater dust you collect on the day’s game drive.