LABA GRUMETI ART LODGE
On a hill in the heart of Maasai country, this new art lodge blends modern African creations with nature’s most fantastic creations. This magnificent retreat is the brainchild of Xavier Marie and Julie Brisson. He is the founder of the ‘Maisons du Monde’ interior design stores. She is a talented interior designer. Together, they set up the Laba Laba hotel group (the name translates as ‘butterfly’ in the local dialect; butterflies being excellent indicators of the ecological quality of an environment). The Laba Grumeti Art Lodge is the jewel in their collection. A spectacular natural site, 11 tented suites built on stilts, complete with wooden terraces, king-size beds, bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers, and dressing rooms. All the trappings of a luxury hotel right in the middle of the African bush. The full-board accommodation package includes safaris and all meals, simple and delicious, including premium wines and spirits, with the exception of champagne. Nothing quite beats sipping an iced cocktail at sunset on the lodge’s terrace lounge, with endless views over the Serengeti plains.
The lodge has been developed as a showcase for the works of established and/or emerging talents in African design and contemporary art. “We chanced upon the anthropomorphic totems of South African artist Zizipho Poswa and were immediately smitten,” explains Xavier Marie. “Captivated by their beauty, we were convinced that her art should be our source of inspiration for the lodge’s interior design, prompting us to create an artier atmosphere than you would find in a traditional camp. Without ever losing sight of the fact that, here, we are in the bush and not in a New York gallery.” While researching how to put together the project around this concept, Xavier and Julie came across other artists and designers who belong to this circle of influence, some of whom are already world-renowned. They selected ten of these creators, mostly South African, but also Kenyan, Ivorian and Ethiopian, and acquired several of their creations. More than 40 works are displayed as a common thread throughout the lobby and communal living areas, but are also dotted around the camp’s suites. Julie Brisson oversaw every detail of the décor, demonstrating exquisite taste and a determination to respect the local culture and the natural beauty of the site. This turns a stay into a moment of contemplation as you stop and marvel at your surroundings.
A LODGE THAT BLENDS AFRICAN ART WITH NATURE’S MOST BEAUTIFUL CREATIONS
The accommodation is made up of ten suites (113 m²), each housed in its own luxury tent encircled by a large wooden terrace built on stilts. A family suite is also available. All boast spectacular views, with none overlooking each other. They are equipped with a dressing room, a small lounge and office area, and a huge bathroom with separate bath and shower (indoor and outdoor). The luxe is tangible in the organic cotton satin bedding, day beds, fans, free Wi-Fi and filtered water. “We initially had the idea of individual villas with swimming pools, but we quickly realised that we didn’t want to build concrete structures in the bush, but rather offer a true safari experience, and therefore opted for canvas tents,” Xavier Marie explains. Each suite offers breathtaking views of the Grumeti Plain (southwest of Serengeti National Park). The lodge’s other facilities include a spa (by Healing Earth Natural & Organic Skin Care), a fitness area (Technogym equipment) and a 22-metre infinity pool.
A TRUE CONNECTION WITH NATURE
It’s 6:30 a.m. and time to set off for the first safari of the day in refurbished Land Rovers. They are unique in that they are powered by diesel to start the engine in cold weather, by ethanol for long journeys, and by silent electric power that respects the wildlife so abundant in this UNESCO-listed region. Xavier Marie compares the impression created by the excursion to the experience of the first explorers who discovered this unspoilt nature. Slow safari is the term that best describes his commitment and values. He is intent on doing everything possible to respect this ecosystem that is the only one of its kind on the planet. It is home to giraffes, zebras, gazelles, kudus, impalas, by the thousands. Further on, a herd of elephants crosses the path. We are also lucky enough to witness, up close, a clan of lionesses and their cubs lazing in the shade of a tree. The Serengeti plains are also known for their large wildebeest migration. In search of new grazing grounds, in January/February, the herds leave the southern plains, their breeding grounds, and cross the border into Kenya (Masai Mara) between July and September. An unforgettable sight! It is interesting to note that the lodge allows animals to roam freely, but don’t worry, guest safety is ensured by proud Maasai warriors who work in harmony with the camp team.
AFTER ALL THAT HARD WORK, A WELL-DESERVED REWARD
After the frenzied fever of the African savannah, there is time to unwind and enjoy the creature comforts of the infinity pool. Its floor has been decorated with diamond-patterned zellige tiles inspired by Maasai shields.
Photos : Warren Heath
Info labalaba.com
