In the spirit of Human Rights Day we have created a Holiday Bill of Rights.

As a responsible citizen we always have to be cognisant of our fellow citizens and that is also why in South Africa we have entrenched in our constitution the Bill of Rights and we celebrate this every March.

However when you’re on holiday, vacationing or taking a break from your everyday life, we would love to think that normal rules do not apply.

So with the upcoming Human Rights Public Holiday in mind we thought it’s time for some new rules, it’s time to get what you deserve!  It is time for a Holiday Bill of Rights.

*That Zimbali Holiday Homes has all these basic rights covered is only coincidence.

1.The Right To Luxury Accommodation

You’ve looked at (and ignored) that faded curtain far too many times. You knock your elbow against the corner table every second day.  When you squint your eye the crack in the wall kind of resembles a creature of the wild. Does any of this sound familiar?

When you’re on holiday you deserve better.

You have the right to luxury accommodation.

We’re talking light airy air conditioned rooms and inviting interiors. Comfy plump sofas and luxurious beds covered in fresh scented sheets.

2.The Right To Eat With Reckless Abandonment

Let’s face it, we’re all guilty of eating that same old basic rice dish 4 times a week.

It’s time to lay that boring diet aside and enjoy some good food.

Explore the menu of a new restaurant and let those culinary wizards whip you up a mouth watering meal fit for a king.

Have dessert for breakfast just for the fun of it! And for lunch, and made even supper. Treat yourself!

In moderation of course, you still want to recognise yourself in the mirror.

3.The Right to Space – Plenty of Space

You’ve been cooped up in that stuffy office for long enough.

It’s time to see the sun. 

Breath some fresh air. 

Stretch some legs.

Sink your feet in warm beach sand. Let your feet carry you through winding nature trails and lush green gardens. It’s time to find stillness in wide open spaces.

Taking a couple breaths in a fresh new environment is sure to revive you and give you a new zest for life.

It’s your divine right to be reunited with the tender love and open spaces of Mother Nature.

4.The Right to Great Weather

Live in a busy, stuffy city?

Are you confronted by cold winds or bitter rains and pollution? 

Is Summer turning into Autumn and all the leaves are disappearing? 

Is Winter slowly creeping in and green is no longer the colour that surrounds you?

Well head on down to the coast and enjoy blue skies and clear starry nights and lush green vegetation.

It’s not coincidence that every holiday brochure is centered around clear blue skies. Great weather equals great vibes and great fun.

So come down to KwaZulu-Natal where the summer never ends and experience the good side of life!

Now that you know your rights. Pack your bags and make good on your holiday rights.

The second month of the year has come and gone and soon the summer will be no more.

Let’s be honest. The way the heat has been searing our skin, we’re all about ready to see the summer gone. But when the sun retreats to the recesses of the skies and the chill settles in, you will long for these warm summer days.

And what will you remember? How you hid indoors to escape the heat? How you lay on your

bed blasting the fan, banishing the fire of hell out of your household?

No! Today you’re going to make memories in the sun. We’re going to soak up the last of the summer while we still can.

Visit Your Nearest Beach

When you think of summer, you think of the beach. And rightly so. The warmth of the sun coupled with cool blue waters is perfection.

So visit the beach one last time before it becomes to cold to enjoy the

waves and scenery.

Here at Zimbali we have a great private beach for our residents to enjoy, however any old beach will do. As long as you’re out there in the sun.

Be sure to carry some sunblock with you, the sun is relentless this season.

Prepare Family Picnic

Summer is the time for outdoor activities. So while the weather permits, let’s

have a picnic.

Find a park in you area. Find a shaded secluded area or maybe even a garden. It’s as simple as walking to the tree at the other side of your lawn. A blanket, a selection of eateries and a couple of refreshments and suddenly we’ve got an inviting scene.

Shaded under a tree with birds chirping and light breeze blowing, it’s a dream. A picnic is a perfect way to connect with nature and with your company.

Host A Braai

Tell me, what’s more South African than a lekker braai?

The answer to the question is nothing! So gather up your closest friends and family and maybe that neighbour you despise and show them what a real braai looks like.

Some good food and good company never hurt anybody. Get some sizzling meat on those  hot coals and throw in a few meilies for a bit of a healthier vegetarian friendly option.

Have an afternoon filled with laughs and good humour that flows right into the evening. A day well spent in my opinion.

 

So don’t waste any more time moaning  about the heat of the sun. But rather enjoy it

while it lasts with these simple and easy activities. Now get on with it!

Looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day destination?

Somewhere romantic and private to whisk away your significant other?  Then get down to Zimbali Coastal Resort, your one-stop love destination. Zimbali has all the qualities sure to secure memorable Valentine’s Experience that  you  will both cherish forever.

Let us help you plan your perfect romantic getaway right here on our lush green coastal paradise.

Serene atmosphere that is perfect for Romance

We’ll start with a serene atmosphere. Located in the middle of an indigenous forest, Zimbali is secluded from the rest of the world. Magnificent views greet you in every direction. Witness breathtaking sunsets against shimmering ocean waters along our long stretches of deserted beach.

Feel like you’re the only two people in the world as you follow the winding pathways in our nature trails under the canopy of trees. There’s plenty to discover in this unspoilt coastal forest reserve.

Zimbali has several natural spring water lakes, which create a beautiful habitat for the birds, a host of butterflies and a wide variety of indigenous plant life. Animal life within the forest reserve includes bush buck, blue duiker, bushbaby, vervet monkey, banded mongoose and even wild pig.

Indulge and relax at Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Zimbali Resort.

Treat yourselves to the health and luxury you deserve, with a whole range of therapies such as: full body treatments, facials, manicures, pedicures and massages.

Willow Stream Spa has couple treatments which are an ideal way to spend time with that special someone. Their treatment menu ensures that your spa visit is truly memorable.

Willow Stream Spa has unique offerings, from an indulgent marula milk bath (featuring the country’s celebrated marula fruit) to a stress-relieving intonga stick massage with hydrating potato, or marula and neroli butter and balm. Get to reconnect with your loved one in the tranquil couple’s lounge or one of our spacious couple’s suites.

Nothing says romance like a perfect dinner date.

Select the perfect setting in any of Zimbali’s nine restaurants that is sure to meet any of your requirements. Enjoy exquisite meals and excellent service wherever you end up.

Feast your eyes on the lush interiors in the company of the one you love. Bars, lounges and deli’s are also open to you throughout your stay. So whether you enjoy fine dining in a sophisticated setting or a more relaxed atmosphere in a lounge setting, you are covered!

Luxury Accommodation

We have a selection of luxury accommodation options for you to choose from.  Have a look at our portfolio of Suites and Houses for your Romantic Valentine getaway!

See our portfolio here

Come on down and make unforgettable memories with us here at Zimbali. Keep the romance alive and spoil your loved one with a blissful visit that will take both of your breaths away.

Are you a city dweller in need of a break?

Chasing pavements and slowly climbing the corporate ladder? Your day starts with the rude blare of an alarm or the constant honking of cars as they speed by. People mill around at every corner rushing like a colony of ants into their own area of work. You’ve put all your effort in your work and now you’re tired.

Are you already thinking that you need an escape from the city hustle and bustle even though it is only January?

Well we’ve got just the place for you. Use your unused or upcoming leave days effectively and book yourself into a luxury holiday accommodation here at Zimbali.

“But why Zimbali?” you might wonder.  Because Zimbali is the perfect place to escape city life and capitalise on the beauty of nature whilst enjoying world class amenities.

Zimbali  is a sanctuary of trees and ocean breeze.

Zimbali Resort is situated amid a natural coastal forest with an abundance of indigenous wildlife. The trees offer a fresh scent to the air, couple that with the whiff of ocean fragrance, and you’re in heaven.

Take a stroll and venture out into the nature trails and bask in the relaxed atmosphere provided by the canopy of trees.

Tune your ears to the chorus of the magnificent birds that reside in the evergreen. Trade your slacks for a pair of shorts and follow the beckoning call of the ocean’s roar. Sink your feet in the sand and channel your inner calm to the rhythmic sound of the crashing waves.

Zimbali is tucked away from noisy city living.

Secluded from the busy nature of city life, Zimbali offers a sense of privacy and stillness. Yet, you need not worry about being bored. The amenities on offer at Zimbali are world class!

• Play golf on the championship signature five-star golf course.
• Treat your body with a relaxing massage at the tranquil Willow Stream Spa, a place where relaxation is key.
• Visit the ‘Valley of the Pools’, a collection of picturesque beach view rim flow pools perfect for a hot day. 

There are also an abundance of activities in and around the surrounding area to enjoy and de-stress from your normal city live. Socialize and entertain friends at one of our nine versatile restaurants for your dining pleasure.

Relax and find peace as the weight of the world falls away. You are in the perfect place to recharge your batteries in order to tackle your busy life back in the City.

So pack your bags and make your way to Zimbali and experience paradise.

Make Zimbali your personal luxury nature retreat, with panoramic views of the warm Indian Ocean, tranquil lakes, flowing waterfalls plus the endless stretch of the secluded Zimbali beach.

You will not be disappointed.

D-REX ARTIFICIAL WAVE AT THE WAVEHOUSE

This artificial surf wave located at the northern end of the Gateway Shopping Centre is just the place to go if you are cruising for a bruising. The Double break on land surfing spot makes use of strong water jets to create a perfect never ending barrel. 

Although it looks easy, be aware, you might end up as crowd entertainment as your bare butt bounces through the surf and you get spit out the back while your cozzie bottoms end up in the drain.

UMHLANGA’S SECRET “NUDE BEACH”.

There is a secret beach along the shoreline of Umhlanga Rocks, hidden away from the general public and quite a mission to gain access to. The waters are crystal clear like bath water setting the scene for some good clean “kaalgat” fun.

Nudist see nudism as asexual so if you are not a “card carrying” nudist please stay away and even more, leave the camera at home.

Also remember the cops will chuck your flabby butt in jail as public nudity is still illegal in South Africa. The spot is used mostly by locals and is not exactly a tourist attraction. If you need directions ask a local.  Be aware the spot is isolated and please ensure that you are safe all the time.

MICROLIGHT FLIGHTS IN BALLITO

Not scared of a little height? The Dolphin Coast of South Africa is a magnificent stretch, where sandy beaches and the Indian Ocean put on an extraordinary show. All of this scenic loveliness can be experienced by soaring over it in the absolute freedom of a microlight.

If you would like to book for more than one person to fly at the same time(ie simultaneously), please let the operator know in advance so they can try to accommodate your request. Minimum age is 9, and maximum weight 120kg.

Clothing depends on the weather. Always advisable to wear closed shoes, long pants and bring a warm top/sweater or windbreaker with. But on a hot day, we fly in shorts, T-shirts and sandals. It also depends on how long you choose to fly. Even on a warm day, flights longer than 20 min can become chilly.

GET SLOSHED AT A CRAFT BREWERY

It is official there are people that love beer more than you, in fact a lot more! Ursula and Gary from Great Railroad, Brewing Company loved beer so much that they gave up careers in the corporate word to pursue their passion.
Here you can sample a Bohemian Pilsner (I never thought those two word would ever work in a sentence), an Irish Red Ale and a Marzen Pilsner amongst others.

Note: It is important to forget what you were told during your “fancy” wine tasting tour in the Winelands, when it comes to beer, we swallow, every drop of it, and then we politely ask for more!

It is important to have a designated driver as you might not be able to navigate your way back to Zimbali in a safe manner. “Takeaways” are available in 440ml bottles but if you are anything like me, you can go home with a 5 litre party keg or two.

Book your next stay at Zimbali Suites and try out all these and many other wonderful activities in the area  We’re excited to welcome you!

With the game of golf originating in the British Isles and Kzn being referred to as the last outpost, it is only reasonable to expect that golf is very popular in Kzn, some of the finest courses in the country are found here  However, that is where the resemblance to that small windy and wet island ends. 

In Kzn our weather is usually the opposite, admittedly we do get rain but it is almost never cold and miserable.

We are often asked by our customers, which are the best golf courses to play on the Dolphin Coast? The answer is easy as there isn’t a single place on the country with more excellent courses this close together.

Use Zimbali as your Golfing base!

With Zimbali sporting one of the best courses in the country , 5 restaurants, pristine nature and an absolute ton of stuff to do for golfers and non-golfers it just makes perfect sense to use Zimbali as a base for your golfing holiday.  Herewith a list with some of the excellent golf courses within easy reach when staying over at Zimbali Rental Suites.

Zimbali Country Club

With stunning ocean and coastal forest vistas, water and wetland features and an abundance of bird and animal life this Tom Weiskopf designed course must take precedence over the other courses on this list.

Zimbali is amongst the top 10 courses in South Africa to receive the Complete Golfer’s Five-star Golf Experience Award; based on service excellence, top-class clubhouse facilities, golf course conditioning and last but not least the overall lingering experience.

Designed with conservation in mind, this cart-only golf course – with its dramatic elevation changes, varying eco-systems and substantial residential areas – can best be described as an enthralling journey through 18 holes.

The course features a mix of open links-like holes on the front nine and tree-lined holes with tranquil water features and beautiful wetland areas on the back nine. Ideal for all levels of golfer, Zimbali offers a variety of tees from which to choose. The estate has hosted the Gary Player Invitational, the Volvo World Amateur Finals, and has staged the MTN SuperSport Shootout for three consecutive years.

The modern yet colonial-style clubhouse is the perfect place to unwind after a challenging day on the course. Designed around an ageing fig tree and framed by the remains of a ruined farmhouse, the country club is fully integrated with the surrounding natural forest. Golf carts, a well-stocked pro shop, a halfway house, putting greens, a driving range, bar and lounge facilities, and impeccable service

Umhlali Country Club

Umhlali Golf Course is an ideal holiday course located a mere 12km minutes from Zimbali. This little jewel of a course was voted the most improved golf course in KwaZulu-Natal by Compleat Golfer magazine in 2008.  This 18 Hole Peter Matkovich designed course blends into the the surroundings with indigenous vegetation

The course is one of the oldest and most picturesque on the North Coast and although not a long course, it provides many testing challenges. The water hazards on seven of the holes combined with the exotic palm trees will provide a fair test of your golfing skills. 

The back tees are designed to test the skills of the more accomplished golfers and the front markers will make it easier for the long handicappers. The sweeping fairways, lush indigenous vegetation and the varied holes will make for a very pleasurable golfing experience on the Dolphin Coast.

Prince’s Grant

Prince’s Grant is a short drive on the N2 north from Zimbali.  Since opening in 1994, the Prince’s Grant golf course has earned a reputation for excellence.

It is a regular recipient of the Compleat Golfer 5-Star Golf Experience Award and has been named the Best Golf Development In South Africa by the World Property Awards. 

The golf course has a links/parkland layout, designed and constructed by Peter Matkovich, and is laid out over four ridge lines overlooking the Indian Ocean. Sweeping, majestic views over the ocean, with spectacular coastal forest makes this one of the most scenic and visually stunning golf courses in South Africa.

But it is the quality of the golf course design and the lovingly groomed condition of greens and fairways that make Prince’s Grant a bucket list golf course for golfers of all ability levels.

Simbithi Country Club

Almost next door to Zimbali Simbithi Eco estate is a no brainer course to play while staying at Zimbali.

Simbithi Country Club is a Peter Matkovich designed golf course and is the first South African course specifically designed along the lines of the popular Executive courses in the US – fewer par-5s, more par 3s – with busy, time-challenged working people in mind.

At Simbithi, you can play a full – and testing – 18 holes using every club in your bag.

The condition of the course is excellent with well paced true greens that hold a well struck approach shot, pristine fairways and a layout that will test your course management at every hole. Simbithi Country Club is the first executive golf course to be built in South Africa. With a par of 60, made up of thirteen par 3’s, four par 4’s and one par 5, you might be forgiven for anticipating this golf course as a lesser challenge, but that will be at your peril!

Every Golfer’s Dream Destination!

If you are a keen golfer and wondering where to go on your next golfing holiday then come to the Dolphin Coast!  And if you are in need of accommodation base yourself at Zimbali.  

The Dolphin Coast boasts a variety of exciting opportunities for all the adrenaline junkies out there. So for the adventure seeker staying over at our luxurious Zimbali Suites for holiday or business accommodation we put together a fantastic list of activities. What are we waiting for? Let’s jump right in!

Microlight Flights

Taking off from either Umkomaas (South Coast) or Umvoti Airfield, just North of Ballito, the flights head either North or South along the coast. ComeFly is based on a private airfield along the N2 highway, where the airspace is uncontrolled and the coast is a mere two kilometres away. Whale Sharks, Rays, Turtles and all sorts of marine life are easily spotted from the open microlight. Fly over stunning local scenery, from rolling coastal hills covered in sugar cane, to long stretches of pristine unspoilt beaches.

Call: 0733347911
Email: Rhod@SkyAdventures.co.za

Kite Surfing

Kite surfing is an exciting water sport that is taking the world by storm. When you’re on the Dolphin Coast you are surrounded by amazing beaches and world class waves. The North Coast provides some of the best kite surfing conditions and playgrounds in the world. Surfers Ballito Bay offers instruction by qualified instructors with courses that will provide you with the skills you need to tackle the wind and waves.

Call: 032 946 0018
Email: reese@surferssa.co.za

Mountain Biking & Trail Running

Experience the enjoyment of mountain biking & running trails in Ballito. Cycle over rough terrain ushered by trees and nature’s brilliant presentation. Holla Trails is a paradise for mountain bikers, trail runners or those who simply enjoy walking in the outdoors. The trails are accessible 24hrs a day, 7 days a week provided you have a valid permit displayed on your bike.

Call: 032 947 1465
Email: trailmaster@hollatrails.co.za

Ballito Parkrun

Get your heart racing with a good run at the beautiful Ballito park. Ballito parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 8:00am in Sugar Rush Park, X1 Esenembe Road, Compensation, Ballito, 4390. So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own “running journey” or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to join.

Email: ballitooffice@parkrun.com

Horse Rides

For a scenic and tranquil horse riding experience, Redwoods Riding Centre on the picturesque and fast-growing KZN North Coast is a must visit. Enjoy trails through the sugar belt, where there is a multitude of coastal forests, dams, natural water ways and viewpoints that make for very attractive rides. The horses are well-schooled and carefully selected to suit the rider’s ability, ensuring the most pleasant ride possible. The trails are usually about an hour and a half long, depending on riders’ ability and comfort.

Call: 083 301 5532
Email: redwoodsbookings@gmail.com

Ballito Helicopter Flips

One of the most memorable ways to experience Ballito is on an exciting helicopter flip – sure to get the adrenaline coursing through your veins as you enjoy the spectacular views. These helicopter flips are conducted by BAC Helicopters based in Imbonini Industrial Park, ideally positioned to serve visitors to both Ballito and Durban. Any sized group is accommodated, and the route is tailored to your preferences, time frames and budget. Booking is essential.

Call: 031 569 1531
Email: tthompson@bacheli.com

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is definitely one of the top activities in Ballito. Be sure to take a snorkeling safari with Tidal Tao Snorkeling Safaris. The Ballito beaches (and the North Coast in general) have some incredible rocky shores. It is these shores that make for such excellent snorkeling, the rocks provide great protection in some places allowing coral growth making for incredible underwater fun.

Call: 079 307 0608
Email: snorkel@tidaltao.com

Book your next stay at Zimbali Suites and try out all these and many other wonderful activities in the area  We’re excited to welcome you!

Exciting news! We are in the process of developing a dedicated section on our website that allows you, our precious guests, to discover must-experience places in the surrounding area.

We’d love to be a local directory for our guests, to ensure that your stay with us is as memorable as possible. Get a list of recommended places for both the holiday maker with a family, the couple on a romantic getaway  and the business traveler.

There’s something here for everyone! No one left behind. With this new resources section there’s no missing out any fun activities happening in our local area. Boredom is a thing of the past with so many exciting locations to explore.

There’s also no need to get lost as we’ve got the location address available along with contact information for your chosen destination.

Consider travel sorted!

Suggest a place here

As we are growing this section, we welcome any suggestions for places that you feel need to be listed on our website.

Please leave your suggestions on the comment section below. Thank you for your input!

Business travel can be quite a bore. With stress of impending meetings and the wooing of potential clients you can easily lose the joy that travelling brings.  As a corporate traveler, you have different needs compared to your average holidaymaker. No worries, we understand and are here to make your business stay one to look forward to.

Here are five reasons why staying at Zimbali Suites would be the best decision while on business in the Durban / Ballito area.

Zimbali Suites is close to the King Shaka Airport

After long hours of travel, the last thing you need is to travel an even further distance to reach your destination. Being only 25 minutes and 18km away Zimbali Suites is situated conveniently close to King Shaka International Airport and is the ideal base from which to conduct business, whether conferencing at Zimbali Resort or seeing clients in Durban.

Relax in luxury and enjoy your business stay.

Zimbali Offers Luxury Accommodation

You might not be on holiday, but you still deserve a comfortable stay with all the amenities of home. Our suites are equipped for a pleasant luxury stay. Control the temperature to your liking with the air conditioning that is available in all our suites. Daily housekeeping will make sure your suite is kept clean and tidy. Towels are available in our bathrooms to make you feel at home. Internet access is essential on a business trip, free wifi is available in all our suites making connections easier.

Conference Venues

Fairmont Zimbali Resort is equipped with conference venues to facilitate all your business meetings whether large or small.

Personalised conference arrangements are available for small to large groups of up to 70 guests. A wide range of audio and visual aids and state of the art equipment is available to delegates in the three conference rooms. The catering service is an extension of the excellent dining facilities, which can create unique outdoor or indoor experiences.

Zimbali Suites has great leisure facilities

It can’t just be all work and no play. These days making real connections with your clients and delegates is essential for profitable business.

Well we can help with that! Zimbali Resort has a range of facilities that will make business trips worthwhile. Entertain your clients with a round of golf on the magnificent Zimbali Golf Course or enjoy some team building excursions with fun activities such as bird watching in the enchanting nature trails. Then wine and dine your delegates in one of the many exquisite restaurants and eateries. There are tastes to suit every palate, and dishes prepared to impress.

We have great weather

KwaZulu-Natal is known for it’s year-round great weather. Expect blue sunny skies and mild temperatures during winter with hardly any wind. Now what could be more perfect than taking advantage of the bounties of Mother Nature especially when dealing with the stresses of business away from home?

So for your next business trip choose Zimbali Suites with its close proximity to Durban, Ballito and North Coast, its relaxing environment and luxurious accommodation and look forward to your next business trip to KZN!