Karen Gables, Nairobi

With its rounded gables, white-washed walls and plenty of cosy corners to relax in, Karen Gables makes for a charming overnight stay in Nairobi before setting off on your Kenyan safari. The hotel has a fabulous location in the leafy, upmarket suburb of Karen – undisturbed by the bustle and traffic jams of the city centre. After a long journey, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool, a drink on the veranda or a stroll through the landscaped gardens, stopping to rest by the gentle river.

Originally built as the owner’s private residence, the property feels very cosy with an eclectic collection of furnishings and antiques. The seven rooms and suites are spacious and beautifully styled with window seats, French doors and four-poster beds. Superb meals are freshly prepared throughout the day, and there is easy access to attractions like the Giraffe Centre and Karen Blixen Museum.