Giraffe Manor is amazing, truly. But you know who the real hero is? The Retreat at Giraffe Manor. This day room concept is above and beyond anything I’ve experienced at any other luxury hotel around the world. Many hotels offer complimentary “day rooms” or similar rooms that you can use for an hour or so to freshen up before a late flight, but nowhere else I’ve stayed has offered a room that’s entirely yours, as long as you need it on your last day.
Our flight home from Nairobi was scheduled to leave at 11:55pm—that is not a typo! So, what were two women and a baby supposed to do all day once they had to fly back from their safari that morning? Here’s what it’s like staying in a day room at The Retreat at Giraffe Manor.
Our Room
If you’re thinking these day rooms are going to be sub-par, you are incorrect. Our room was just as large and elegant as our room at Giraffe Manor. It was even had the same layout. We enjoyed a large bedroom space with a queen size bed and day bed, as well as a desk and luggage racks. The room also included coffee, tea, juices, and snacks for us while we were there. We even had a large balcony with beautiful seating, which looked out over the Manor House. We were definitely comfortable here. I could have stayed a few more days!
Also helpful: The Best Tips Before Your First Trip to Kenya
The Bathroom
The bathroom was also the same as our room at the Manor House: Separate toilet room, two sinks with plenty of counter space, and massive walk-in shower with luxury, locally made toiletries. We also had use of cozy robes and the same plush towels as the ones we used at the Manor House. This was essential for our long travel day. We had already flown from the Solio Lodge that morning, and we were scheduled to take two eight-hour flights, back to back, over the following 24 hours. The ability to shower and start fresh again before making the long trek home was life-giving.
Read on: What to Do at Giraffe Manor Between Giraffe Feedings
The Retreat Property
The Retreat is available to guests staying at the Manor House, plus guests of The Retreat itself. As expected, it’s absolutely beautiful. Despite being the newest addition to the property, it fits perfectly with the historic look and feel of Giraffe Manor. It houses a gorgeous study where guests can relax, plus a covered, outdoor patio with comfy seating. While we were there, my 20-month-old daughter took advantage of their paint sets as a fun activity!
More here: Tips for Feeding the Giraffes at Giraffe Manor
The Spa
Also at The Retreat, guests can indulge at the spa for a massage, facial, mani-pedi, or combination of those. My traveling companion enjoyed a most relaxing facial, and I scheduled a deep tissue massage and mani-pedi while we were there. It was just what we needed during our trip to help us reset and soothe those sore, traveling muscles.
Read on: What It’s Like Staying at Giraffe Manor in Nairobi
The Gym
I didn’t use this amenity during our day at The Retreat, but I did take advantage of it every day of our stay at the Manor House. There are free weights, two kettlebells, a few weight machines, a large cable machine, a treadmill, stationary bike, elliptical machine, rower, and open space for mobility and bodyweight work. With large windows and a view of the pool, it’s one of the most pleasant hotel gyms for a workout. Whatever your preferred vacation fitness routine happens to be, you will find something for you!
Also helpful: The Best Fitness Apps for Travel
The Pools and Sauna
Wow. The Retreat’s beautiful lap pool has one of the best views in the wild: Giraffes! The pool is heated as well, so it’s lovely to use year-round. Just remember to apply your sunscreen! Indoors, you will also find a whirlpool and sauna for guests’ use. Just notify a staff member about 30 minutes in advance so they can heat the sauna for you.
Keep reading: How Single Parents Can Treat Themselves on Travel
Daisy’s Cafe
Meals at the Manor House are not included in a stay at The Retreat, but food and beverages at Daisy’s Cafe are. They have a great menu for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert, plus smoothies and coffee. You can dine indoors or outdoors, complete with warthogs and giraffes in view. We took advantage of this amenity for lunch, dinner, coffee, and a smoothie snack for my toddler daughter. She loved it!
More here: The Best Food at Giraffe Manor
Want more? Check out my dedicated Kenya Page!
Love this post? Pin it for later!
