Elite Traveler March-April 2017

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elite traveler MAR/APR 2017

Gorilla conservation RWANDA Due to open in June 2017, Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge is situated within the grounds of an eroded volcanic cone. The 67-acre Bisate site is made up of just six exclusive forest villas. The lodge is in an elevated position giving sweeping views of nearby volcanoes, including mounts Bisoke, Karisimbi and Mikeno, and is located close to Kinigi, in the Volcanoes National Park, home to the critically endangered mountain gorilla, golden monkeys, elephants and buffalo. Guests can embark on gorilla treks knowing they are contributing to the conservation of these curious creatures; Bisate believes that, through high-end ecotourism, guests are able to make a dramatic and far-reaching impact on the disappearing species and the entire ecosystem. The generously sized villas are designed in keeping with traditional Rwandan structures. The spherical, thatched villas, with interiors of woven materials, offer breathtaking panoramas across a private deck toward Mount Bisoke. Price from $1,400 per night Contact Donna Robins, travel director, donna@gorillasafaricompany.com, +44 1327 437340, wilderness-safaris.com

Kitesurfing PUERTO RICO

Dorado Beach is considered one of the world’s finest kitesurfing destinations, with warm waters and consistent, year-round winds. Goodwinds offers lessons for all abilities, from complete beginners to advanced kitesurfers. The company’s highly regarded instructors provide multi-day lessons for beginners, as well as freeride, freestyle, wave-riding and foil-boarding sessions for seasoned riders looking to perfect their technique and face new challenges. Stay at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in a secluded area on Puerto Rico’s Caribbean coast, where conservationist Laurance Rockefeller first unveiled his eco-friendly private resort. The retreat preserves this legacy and incorporates Rockefeller’s environmental design beliefs – the property is a gold-certified Audubon Society Sanctuary, one of only 20 in the world. Covering 8,000 sq ft on the northern coastline, the Su Casa is the crown jewel of the resort and served as Clara Livingston’s cherished abode from 1928 to 1955. Guests can now experience the Spanish hacienda restored to its original 1920s splendor – with an expansive wraparound veranda overlooking the ocean, rising palm trees, immaculate gardens and private infinity-edge pool – and feel immersed in the surrounding nature. Price from $25,000 per night Contact Isabel Gracia, director of sales, isabel.gracia@ritzcarlton.com, +1 787 278 7333, ritzcarlton.com