There is one place I have been hearing about over the years which I had never been to but always wanted to see for myself. The day finally arrived where I was spending some time at Sun City all thanks to Ford South Africa.
The Sun City resort is situated in the North West near the Pilanesberg National Park, roughly 200Km from Johannesburg. The resort which was opened in 1979, is the only surf and safari destination in the area and is home to a range of hotels, attractions and activities for all ages.
I was lucky enough to stay at The Palace of the Lost City which is part of the Sun International’s Sunlux Collection of hotels. The Palace is a 5 star hotel which has to be the most luxurious and extravagant hotel I have ever been to.
As you arrive at the hotel you are greeted by the gigantic fountains which set the precedent of what to expect.
As I walked into the hotel, I just stopped and took in the african feel. The entrance features an intricately painted high ceiling, mosaic artworks and golden zebra-hide upholstered furniture. The dining area is fit for a king with high ceilings, a massive chandelier and art pieces. Nothing was left untouched!
Around the hotel are gardens, waterfalls and large art pieces. I felt like I was in the middle of a jungle on a movie set. In fact, lots of the scenes for “Blended” movie were filmed at The Palace and Sun City. As soon as I was told this, I went to watch the trailer and I straight away recognised lots of the hotel.
All of the luxurious rooms in the hotel stay true to the african theme and have handcrafted furniture. My Superior Luxury room had loads of space (46 sqm to be exact), a couch area, two balconies, a large comfortable bed, a massive bathroom with a bath and shower as well as a walk in closet. If this isn’t comfort, then I don’t know what is.
I woke up before sun rise and went to the Kings Tower to look at the most beautiful sunrise above Sun City and the Pilanesberg Mountains.
Foodies take note. The Palace has a range of different restaurants to cater for your needs, all in 5 star dining. At the Lost City restaurant menus have been crafted and curated by world-class chefs and paired with excellent wines. Choose from African cuisine to French fare; dine intimately indoors or socially al fresco.
There is also loads to do at The Palace and the surrounding Sun City resort. The Palace itself has an adult only swimming pool where you can take a dip or have a cocktail. For those looking for more there is the Valley of Waves which is home to the only inland beach in Africa. Make it a day at the seaside; frolic in the waves of the Roaring Lagoon, ride the Lazy River or slide down the thrilling Temple of Courage.
The more adventurous ones can go for an early morning hot-air balloon ride over the plains of the Pilanesberg National Park or discover the Big Five or Rhinos up close on a game drive. I chose to go for a Segway ride around the Golf Course which was so much fun!
I also went drift karting which was loads of fun though a bit scary when you spin out 😉
Golf lovers can play on two world class golf courses designed by Gary Player or see how good they are at the golf simulator in the Hall of Fame.
For those looking to relax, you can head to the Royal Salon wellness spa and beauty salon or even have a spa treatment right in the privacy of your room.
View more of the activities here (There are way too many to list)
