Resorts

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Resort accommodation in South Africa is plentiful; there are literally hundreds of holiday resorts spread across the length and breadth of the country, each offering their own unique experience.

Unlike in other countries where resorts are often characterised by large sprawling estates featuring every activity under the sun, South African holiday resorts tend to be smaller and vary greatly in their offerings. It’s not uncommon to find a simple caravan and camping resort with only a swimming pool a stone’s throw away from a massive upmarket resort with all the trimmings.

Many of the resorts are graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, ranging from 1-star to 5-star; this provides some indication of the facilities available. The types of resorts available include self-catering; caravan and camping; lodge; and hotel resorts  - and within that, everything from golf and sports resorts to safari and casino resorts.

There’s also a new breed of eco-resort emerging. These are often located in ecologically sensitive areas, including mountain and bush destinations, where facilities and activities are managed according to sound environmental principles.

Larger resorts offer a wealth of activities. These usually include a number of different indoor and outdoor sports, mountain biking, walks, hikes, and swimming - often with multiple pools. Safari resorts specialise in game activities while golfing and casino resorts have facilities structured around these activities.

As resort holidays are family-friendly, most resorts offer activities and facilities for children and some even boast dedicated children’s programmes.

If you’re looking for 5-star resort accommodation in South Africa, try Oyster Bay Resort (caravan and camping) in the Eastern Cape; Hyatt Regency Oubaai Golf Resort and Spa (hotel) in the Western Cape; Forever Resorts Matombu Wild (self-catering) in Mpumalanga; and Sun City resort (hotel) in North West.