A flying trapeze, a Big Five game reserve, Zulu-inspired décor, and a surf school will dazzle guests at South Africa’s first Club Med, opening in July 2026, The Sunday Times reported. The R2bn luxury beach resort, rising on a former sugar-cane plantation in Tinley Manor (KZN’s north coast), is now a hive of construction.
After years of searching, French-owned Club Med chose this prime location for its debut upmarket SA resort.
While exact prices remain undisclosed, bookings will open in October. Globally, a week’s stay for a family of four at Club Med averages between R75,000 and R380,000.
Olivier Perillat-Piratoine, Club Med Southern Africa MD, told The Sunday Times the resort is designed to offer an “unparalleled experience of relaxation, adventure and cultural immersion, while maintaining a deep respect for the environment.”
Local firms Craft of Architecture and Mobius Interior Architecture, alongside France’s Studio Marc Hertrich & Nicolas Adnet, shaped the design. Perillat-Piratoine said the team drew inspiration from “the vibrant art and traditions of the Zulu people and the relaxed coastal lifestyle of the north coast.”
He added: “The architecture invites guests to indulge in the relaxed coastal surf vibe — whether it’s early morning paddle-outs, sunset beach bonfires or shaded cabanas reminiscent of Durban’s golden beaches. From sunrise surf sessions — a first for Club Med — to tranquil estuary walks, every aspect of Club Med South Africa is a tribute to the tropical beauty and laid-back coastal charm.”
Image: Craft of architecture
1 Comment
Scrap vat increase. Eliminate government Deputy Ministers. Reduce BLOATED INEFFICIENT MINISTERS by 80%. in line with overseas governments.
Just start doing things proper not the Africsn way.