06:30 First light over Nyakaguruka
Five thatched cottages on a hillside near Mbarara, in south-western Uganda. Woven chairs, kitenge cushions, coffee grown a few steps from your door, and a view that runs all the way to the horizon.
08:00 Arrival
The first thing you’re handed at Nyore is a glass of cold juice. The second is help with your bags. Most of our team come from the community around the hill. They know every path, every view and the best seat for the sunset, and they’re happy to share all three.
Welcome to Nyore Hillside Retreat.
10:00 Your cottage
Every cottage has its own en-suite shower, an outdoor seat with a mountain view, and furniture made by local artisans. Pick a hut or use the arrows to look inside each one.
01 · Among the coffee plants
Our cosiest cottage: compact, but designed to feel spacious, and set in the middle of flourishing coffee plants. Decorated with handmade crafts by local artisans.
02 · Just right for one or two
Cosy and elegant, perfect for a single traveller or a couple, and decorated with handmade crafts by local artisans.
03 · Built for the sunshine
Individual, elegant and refined under a high thatched roof, with every craft, fixture and fabric chosen by hand to bring in Africa’s sunshine.
04 · Cool, sweet and refreshing
A green, restful cottage behind the roses, with artwork painted for Nyore by Donna Banya.
05 · Room for everyone
Two en-suite rooms, the Family Room and the Pineapple Room, joined by an adjoining door. Book one, or open both into one grand cottage overlooking the pineapple and orange gardens.
Kitenge on the cushions and placemats, woven raffia on the tables, baskets and shirts in the craft shop. Most of it was made by hand, not far from the hill.
11:30 Out on the hill
Hiking is the favourite thing to do here, from easy strolls to proper climbs across the rolling hills. Walking sticks, binoculars and a guide are yours on request.
Easy or challenging, always with a view. Set off with one of our walking guides.
Plenty of species pass within a few minutes of the Nyore balcony. Ask for binoculars.
Go with a guide, or take our village map and wander at your own pace.
See where Nyore’s own coffee grows, then how it’s roasted and brewed.
Visit the brick-burning area, see how pots are made, then try one yourself.
A guided walk down to the river and the story of how it has changed.
Zebra, impala, eland, buffalo, hippo and around 350 bird species. Game drives by arrangement.
We provide the tents and bedding, so you just turn up.
13:00 Lunch & lazing
Lunch on a kitenge placemat. A picnic on the grass. A hammock under the eucalyptus, a game of chess, and a second cup of Nyore coffee. Nobody is in a hurry here.
19:30 Dinner
The restaurant is the heart of Nyore, with an outdoor terrace looking out over the hills. Our chef cooks local and international dishes, much of it from our own herb and vegetable gardens. At the bar you’ll find Ugandan and international spirits, beers and wines, plus Nyore Hillside Coffee, grown and roasted right here.
“Outstanding service and food!”
Christoph, Germany · via Booking.com
21:00 Fireside
The bonfire is lit, the stars are out, and this is what our guests say afterwards.
10“Gorgeous tranquil setting, room lovely, staff exceptional… Also to chef Felix for amazing food. We even stayed an extra night.”
Emma United Kingdom
10“…a wonderful garden overlooking a scenic mountain area. Staff are exceptionally attentive and the food is of excellent quality. A real gem in all the lodges we have visited so far in East Africa.”
Helge Germany
5/5“If you have the chance to visit: do it! Our favorite stop in the whole of Uganda. Full of soul, beautiful views, amazing food, great coffee, wonderful staff and owner.”
Sara O.
10“This is our second time staying here and it’s always a pleasure! The place is beautiful and peaceful, surrounded by nature… We will gladly be back soon!”
Laetfal Belgium
5/5“The birdwatching here is nothing less than spectacular… Gilbert showed us the trail for the nature walk and the food was AMAZING!”
Amber P.
10“It was worth every cent. Very nice chef and warm staff. I highly recommend it.”
Hope Uganda
10“The room was very nice with a beautiful view. The staff was super nice and helpful. The food was very good. I highly recommend.”
Juliette France
5/5“We camped here and it was lovely… You can walk around up the hills or just to the village and everyone is friendly… The food is excellent and staff attentive. We shall keep coming back.”
Stephen W.
5/5“Nyore Hillside is a peaceful retreat in a great natural setting, cozy accommodations, and warm hospitality… The service is really attentive.”
quentino692
10“…surrounded by beautiful nature. The staff really goes an extra mile to make you feel comfortable. Will definitely go back.”
Burkmann Germany
5/5“A very peaceful tranquil spot set in rolling hills with amazing views and birdlife.”
Claire W.
10“Wonderful buildings, delicious food, amazing setting, exceptional staff!”
Fiona Canada
“This beautiful little retreat is a secret haven with a breathtaking view and superb service. A bonfire was the perfect nightcap. Don’t forget to order the baked avocado!”
Guest review nyoreretreat.com
“We stayed in the Family Cottage with our one-year-old son for a week. The food was simply excellent, and they went out of their way to make sure he was well catered for.”
Guest review nyoreretreat.com
06:30 Tomorrow
Tell us your dates and who’s coming. We’ll help you choose a cottage and get you up the hill.
