Where to workation in SA

Clinton Moodley picks out some South African hotels perfect for a workation

Oyster Box, KwaZulu-Natal

The Oyster Box, which overlooks the Indian Ocean and the grand Umhlanga Lighthouse, is a dream destination for workation travellers. The 5-star hotel, named ‘Top Resort Hotels in Africa’ at last year’s Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, is the epitome of luxury. Once the working day is over, guests can pamper themselves with a few treatments at the spa, indulge in afternoon high tea or sundowners at the rooftop Lighthouse Bar or tuck into their famous curries. The rooms come kitted with high speed wi-fi, tea and coffee making coffee facilities, a well-stocked minibar and luxurious bathrobe and slippers. The business centre is open 24-hours a day. It features two workstations, printing facilities and a complimentary refreshment station. A-list stars Kim Kardashian West, French Montana, Prince Harry and Naomi Campbell stayed here when they visited Durban. Call 031 514 5000 or visit: www. oysterboxhotel.com

Turbine Hotel and Spa

Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa, situated on Thesen Islands in Knysna and once housed an old power station, offers travellers all the amenities needed for a bleisure trip. The luxury property boasts 26 rooms with a flat-screen TV, desk, wi-fi, tea and coffee making facilities and a minibar. All rooms offer stunning views. Between Zoom meetings, grab a bite at the Island Café Restaurant that overlooks the canals and pool deck, or The Gastro Pub, which offers classic pub meals with lagoon sunset views. Guests can also head to The Turbine Spa for some pampering or The Turbine Water Club that provides a range of water and land-based activities such as lagoon cruises, forest walks, city tours and bicycle hire. Visit: www.turbinehotel.co.za

Travellers who want to dabble in some adventure and hit the slots can visit the Wild Coast Sun, located less than 2 hours from Durban.

The 4-star-property has room types that suit any traveller. The rooms feature free wi-fi, a writing desk, tea and coffee making facilities and a minibar.

In between meetings, make a splash at the Wild Waves water park, horseback ride on the beach, get adventurous on a segway or enjoy an afternoon quad biking tour. Visitors can play a game of golf at the championship 18-hole Wild Coast Sun golf course.

If you have children, the indoor entertainment area housing the Magic Company, Cosmic Bowling in the Aloha Village and kiddies spa will keep them occupied while you catch up on emails. Call 039 305 9111 or visit: www.suninternational.com/wildcoastsun

The Eendracht Hotel & Apartments, Western Cape

Once a small two-roomed cottage built in 1710, Eendracht Hotel & Apartments has transformed into one of South Africa’s most beloved small hotels. The Stellenbosch hotel is within walking distance of major attractions. Travellers have the option of booking a hotel room or an apartment. Rooms at the luxury hotel come kitted with air-conditioning, smart TV, writing desk, coffee and tea making facilities and wi-fi. The apartments are ideal for those who seek something more spacious and private. Eendracht has also introduced the Huddle Room, a conference venue ideal for Zoom, team and business meetings or private or family functions.

The Huddle Room features state-of-the-art video conferencing facilities and high-speed internet access. For those who want to explore the area, the hotel can arrange activities. Call 021 883 8843 or visit: www.eendracht-hotel.com/

Houghton Hotel, Gauteng

Tucked away in Lloys Ellis Avenue in Johannesburg, Houghton Hotel has everything workcation travellers need to conduct business.

The suites come kitted with a Nespresso machine, a marble-inspired bathroom, a writing desk and free wi-fi. Houghton Hotel has two restaurants on the property, the H Restaurant and Nova Delicatessen.

Visit the Amani Spa and Wellness @ The Houghton, FitBar Gym and pool when you want to take a break from your busy schedule.

Call 011 032 5500 or visit: www.thehoughtonhotel.com/