Okavango Delta, Botswana
The story of Xigera Safari Lodge is one of renewal. Of rebirth and family legacy, and of the pioneering spirit that drives us to seek out Africa’s wild spaces. The same spirit that inspired this remarkable reimagining, perhaps a complete reinvention, of an Okavango Delta safari. This is Xigera (pronounced ‘kee-jera’), named for the Pied Kingfisher that makes its home amid the watery channels of Botswana’s Moremi Game Reserve. Every aspect is handcrafted to beguile our guests’ senses and stir their souls – from the evocative interiors to one-of-a-kind encounters. But Xigera is equally a line in the sand. A raising of the bar. A bold statement in the realm of luxury safaris in Botswana, and an Okavango Delta safari experience like no other.
Dating back to 1883, our Grade-II listed Victorian building, instantly recognisable for its striking Kensington-style red-and-white brick façade, is a true landmark, and we strive to protect and celebrate this precious history, from the original marble checkerboard floors, to the Victorian tiling, leaded windows and wooden panelling, allowing guests a rare glimpse into London’s history.
Led by General Manager Andrew Pike, with 21 years of service, The Milestone is a family of passionate people, with a warm, inclusive ethos that embraces every aspect of our guests’ experiences.
Discover our ‘Tiny Noticeable Touches’, from freshly-cut flowers, handmade luxury soaps and candlelit turndowns, to personalised gifts, and Bentley and Range Rover transfers.
We pride ourselves on our local relationships, and carefully design remarkable experiences for our guests. From behind the scenes tours of the Royal Albert Hall to private in-suite concerts by members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, every detail provides a deep connection with our location.
Our passion for fine wines and gourmet cuisine is the driving force behind everything we serve at The Milestone Hotel & Residences. Experience fine dining in Cheneston's restaurant with its rich mahogany furniture; quintessentially British Afternoon Tea in the Park Lounge; or a light menu in our unique split-level Stables Bar. And, inspired by the fact that our front door is virtually within Champagne cork-popping range of Kensington Gardens, enjoy our famous 'picnic in the park'...
"Our English mansion house has been a hotel since 1922, but was originally three distinct private houses, built in the late Victorian period for aristocratic families. I have been proud to be the GM of this property for the past 16 years and I am especially proud of the many awards we have won for our service, driven by a team of incredibly passionate individuals who have been recognised by our industry for their contribution. Most of my senior team have been with us for more than 10 years and several for more than 15 years, giving us a real sense of community.
Our location, directly facing Kensington Palace, is perfect for local exploration, from the winding Kensington Church Street with its myriad of boutiques on the north side, to the charming red brick terraces to the south.
I am also proud of our long-standing partnerships, including the iconic Royal Albert Hall and Kensington Palace, alongside our support for the British Exploring Society, for whom we have raised funds to give underprivileged young people the opportunity to discover their own potential.
We have recently taken exploration to a different level with our new immersive ‘Urban Foraging’ experience. Other signature experiences include our Smoking Old Fashioned, prepared by our Chief Mixologist Angelo in Stables Bar, or a private recital in your suite by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
We look forward to welcoming you to our very special English Mansion Hotel."
- Andrew Pike, General Manager