Castle Forest Lodge

You stay at Castle Forest Lodge deep in the forest on the southern slopes of Mount Kenya. The lodge has eight round cottages, each with a fireplace, en-suite bathroom, and its own theme. Three bungalows have two bedrooms, a living room with a fireplace, and a verandah overlooking the forest and fields. Two chalets, Montane and Telluride, each have fully equipped kitchens and large living rooms, with views of Mount Kenya.

Guided hikes take you through the forest, where guides point out animal tracks and explain the ecosystem. Horseback rides follow trails through the forest and tea fields bordering the lodge. The lodge sits between two crystal-clear rivers, where you can fish for trout. A freshwater infinity pool offers a cool dip on hot days.

The forest around the lodge is home to elephants, buffalo, leopards, hyenas, bushbuck, and monkeys. About one hundred and seventy-five bird species have been identified here, many specific to this altitude and forested area.

The lodge’s main house, built in 1910, holds three rooms above the kitchen, bar, and restaurant. A separate field offers camping space with clean toilets, hot showers, and a large hall for rainy days. Firewood is provided for campfires.