Club Med Kzn Resort To Combine Beach And Bush

Club Meds first property in Southern Africa set to open near Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal KZN, in 2026 is aiming to bring locals and international visitors to the province with a concept that combines beach and bush.

Speaking during last weeks WTM Africa event, Club Med representatives outlined how the R2billion property, financed entirely by South African investors, is poised to grow tourism and economic activity in KZN. The property will combine a 411-room beach resort and a 75-room safari lodge. After some initial setbacks including the COVID pandemic, and the KZN floods and unrest, construction finally began last year.

But Club Med Southern Africa MD Olivier Perillat-Piratoine is banking on the Club Med effect.

The KZN Club Med developments Project Director Chris du Toit said: This is a very big catalyst for the province and for the North Coast. The key advantage we have is King Shaka International Airport. Since the airport moved in 2010, the North Coast has become very accessible.

He said the economic impact of the project is significant. There are currently 1300 people working on site of which more than 60 live within a 5km radius so there is significant benefit in terms of employment. Just last week, we met with the local police station commander and she indicated to us that crime has reduced by 60 in the area because people are employed.