Gheralta Lodge

The charmingly rustic Gheralta Lodge sits in the dramatic Tigray region of northern Ethiopia, close to the sleepy town of Hawzen midway between Mekele and historic Axum, with the vast Danakil Depression within reach to the east.

Owned by an Italian who was brought up in Addis Ababa, the style is a simple African chic, with grass roofed stone bungalows built in a local style providing accommodation for up to 30 guests.

A shady terrace looks out over the red mountains and there’s also a library, sitting room and internal garden. The large dining room is the setting for home cooked Italian meals and wine, while the bar is a convivial spot for cocktails.

Enjoy relaxing walks from the lodge and trips to nearby rock churches, far less visited those in Lalibela, some famous for their architecture, ancient paintings and manuscripts and others known for their magnificent views. Axum’s archaeological sites are also just a half day drive away.