Welcome to the fourth article in our luxury getaways series, where we aim to introduce you to the top, most highly recommended resorts, lodges and hotels in Africa. Be sure to check out our entire luxury getaway series; the latest article can be found here.
The Oyster Box is the ultimate beachfront hotel; recognised as one of the ‘World’s Best Places to Stay’ as per the Condé Nast Traveller (USA) Gold List 2014. The Hotel is homed on the tropical East Coast of South Africa, enveloped by the warmth of the Durban climate, and faced by the sparkling blue Indian Ocean. Whilst the Hotel’s location on Umhlanga’s beachfront promises warm waters and breath-taking views, the Hotel itself—a five-star establishment and member of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection—is the ultimate in luxury relaxation. Facilities include the blissful Oyster Box Spa, two ginormous swimming pools, luscious gardens and a 24-seater movie theatre.
Oyster Box Spa
We mention the Oyster Box Spa first and foremost because it is, quite simply, one of the Hotel’s biggest drawing cards. Voted ‘Number 1 Luxury Hotel Spa in Africa’ as part of the World Luxury Spa Awards 2014—in addition to being recognised likewise by the World Luxury Spa Awards in previous years—the Oyster Box Spa boasts multiple treatment rooms, a salon, tranquillity lounge, plunge pool, Hammam and Sensation Shower, and full health bar buffet.
Accommodation
Beachfront accommodation does not get more sublime than at the Oyster Box—from the Classic Seafacing Rooms [each with its own balcony], to the Luxury Seafacing Rooms [spacious and light, again each with its own private balcony], to the Sea Facing Family Rooms [offering an additional room adjacent to the main bedroom], to the Sea Facing Cabanas [with individual terraces offering exceptional views of the water’s edge], to the Sea Facing Deluxe Suites [each with a private plunge pool, terrace and separate lounge area]. The Hotel also offers Garden Facing Rooms and Villas as well as a Presidential Suite.
Dining Experience
The Grill Room
An absolute in fine dining and, with a history spanning almost 60 years, a local legend.
The Ocean Terrace
A more casual, family friendly option offering a dining experience that includes a view over the seashore and the lighthouse.
Traditional Afternoon Tea
rue to its colonially influenced roots, the Oyster Box offers guests a high-tea experience—complete with a wide selection of teas and the most scrumptious confectionaries.
The Oyster Box is also home to the Palm Court Restaurant, the Oyster Bar and the Lighthouse Bar.
The Oyster Box’s proximity to Durban and location on the Umhlanga beachfront does of course mean that all the beach and adventure activities [including the renowned uShaka Marine World] one could want to partake in are at one’s doorstep, but bathing in the luxury of the Hotel might see you not wanting to go further than dipping your toes in the water at the shoreline.
Photo Credit: http://www.oysterboxhotel.com/
Words by Illona Meyer
Africa Global News Publication
