At an estimated cost of R2 billion, work is moving quickly toward the much anticipated July 2026 inauguration of Club Med’s first resort in South Africa.
Known by its official name, Club Med South Africa, the resort is situated next to wildlife reserves on KwaZulu-Natal’s rapidly developing North Coast and promises to provide a perfect balance of adventure and peace, making it the perfect place for travelers looking for both excitement and calm.
“The development of Club Med South Africa is advancing across multiple key areas. Construction on the main hotel, which will feature 345 rooms, has reached the first floor, while the central hub of the resort, including a main pool, restaurant, bar, welcome area, and boutique, is also progressing steadily,” the French-founded international resort operator said in a recent statement.
“The family area, which will include a pool and kids’ clubs, and the sports area are on track to offer a comprehensive experience for guests. In addition, the groundwork for the 66 luxury villas, each with scenic estuary views, has been completed, with piling underway.
“The construction of the resort’s modern conference centre, designed to accommodate 500 delegates, and its parking area, which will maintain a vehicle-free zone for guest safety, has also commenced,” it added.
The managing director of Club Med South Africa, Olivier Perillat-Piratoine, showed his excitement for the project by saying, “I am happy to share that construction is well on track for the opening in July 2026.” We are excited to engage with our clients and onboard the market on this amazing endeavor. As development moves forward, we will provide additional details about the Resort and the experience our visitors can anticipate in the future.
Resilience and community involvement
The resort is anticipated to receive a four-star sustainability certification and is being constructed in accordance with Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) guidelines.
The project will employ more than 1,200 people when construction is at its busiest, with the current workforce making up 40% of that total. A substantial amount of labor is obtained from nearby villages within a 5-kilometer radius, guaranteeing the surrounding area receives substantial benefits.
“This project is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and a shared vision,” project director Chris du Toit said, highlighting the teamwork that went into the development. Global standards and local knowledge are being combined to create a resort that will not only benefit the region but also its growth and development.
After construction is finished, Club Med South Africa will launch its renowned all-inclusive experience, which includes first-rate lodging with fine cuisine, an open bar, and a variety of on-land and water activities. In addition, the resort will house the brand’s first-ever surf school and a safari lodge in Zululand.
