Dream Hotels & Resorts (DHR) has announced their recent acquisition of Zimbali Lodge, located within the iconic Zimbali Coastal Resort along the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast.
The acquisition also includes the management of Zimbali Vacation Club, strengthening the company’s footprint within the province and bringing the total number of properties within their portfolio to 21.
‘We are extremely proud to be taking over the management of this prestigious lodge from 1 December 2020. It is the latest addition to our range of mixed-use properties, cementing our dynamic product offering as one of our unique selling propositions,’ says Brent Dickson, Director, Dream Hotels and Resorts.
‘With light at the end of the COVID tunnel, we are grateful for new growth opportunities and are really looking forward to this new endeavor.’
Zimbali Lodge consists of 18 hotel suites as well as 35 self-catering vacation ownership units making up Zimbali Vacation Club. The lodge also caters for small conferences and remains a desirable venue to tie the knot. Before South Africa’s lockdown, the property saw an average of 47 weddings a year, with newlyweds snapping up availability for their honeymoon and many returning to celebrate anniversaries.
Situated 50 km north of Durban, the property is also conveniently located. It is a five-minute drive from the thriving hub of Ballito and just 20 minutes’ drive from King Shaka International Airport.
‘Quietly nestled within an indigenous forest and overlooking a pristine, secluded beach (accessible by foot), a holiday at Zimbali Lodge promises luxury, relaxation, and peace of mind,’ he adds. ‘It’s just the place to catch up on some birding, tee off on the championship 18-hole golf course, and end each day with the most idyllic sunset views from the Valley of the Pools.’
Guests at Zimbali Lodge will have easy access to the on-site Trophy Bar (also open for breakfast and lunch), the squash and tennis courts. Along with these, guests will also benefit from full access to a range of wine and dine options and a stellar selection of world-class amenities within the resort.
‘Whether you’re a nature-lover, an incurable romantic or an exhausted businessman in desperate need of a break, Zimbali Lodge is your ticket to explore a little slice of heaven in a very special country,’ says Dickson. ‘A stay at Zimbali Lodge will also put you in close proximity to a range of attractions including the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and a number of historical isiZulu battlefield sites.’
Over the years, Dream Hotels & Resorts has made a significant investment in less-explored regions within the province. Some of these include Nibela Lake Lodge situated along the banks of Lake St Lucia, the Blue Marlin Hotel in Scottburgh along the South Coast, and Little Switzerland Resort overlooking the Amphitheatre in the Northern Drakensberg.
‘KwaZulu-Natal holds a special place in our hearts and I am delighted that, with the acquisition of Zimbali Lodge, Dream Hotels & Resorts will not only contribute to the growth and future of this landmark, but also to the province as a whole,’ adds Dickson.
Systems are up and running to manage all new bookings at Zimbali Lodge. With regards to Zimbali Vacation Club, all contractual terms in respect of ownership sold remain in place.
‘We have established a great relationship with the current vacation owners and appreciate their invaluable input and support. They are passing the baton – and we are definitely not going to let them down. It’s a fantastic new chapter for Dream Hotels and Resorts and Zimbali Lodge,’ he concludes.
For enquiries and reservations contact 0861 010 347 or email [email protected].
Pictures: Supplied
