A carpet of green stretches over the undulating headland and, in the distance, foamy water lathers the white-sand beach. Welcome to paradise: in this case a four-bedroom lodge in South Africa’s De Hoop Nature Reserve. Meander around the wetlands, wade in the rock pools, or watch wildlife at play. More than 260 species of birds call the reserve home and in winter and spring you might see southern right whales calving and nursing. If it all gets too much, your private butler, chef or guide can assist in working out your next step.