Zimbali Lodge has long lured in visitors making their way up the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal. With leaning palms, subtropical gardens, and a classy resort style, this is just the place to lean back and let nature soothe your soul.

Zimbali, meaning “valley of flowers” in isiZulu, perfectly captures the iconic Zimbali Coastal Resort in which the property is situated. A stay here will set you within five minutes drive from the thriving hub of Ballito, and just 20 20-minute’ drive from King Shaka International Airport. Easy to reach, with an atmosphere that is warm and soulful, the lodge includes 18 hotel suites and 35 self-catering vacation ownership units.

The accommodation here hits the sweet spot between classic elegance and modernity, with architecture accentuated by warm wood and autumn tones. Private decks offer a front-row seat to the glorious surroundings — an indigenous forest brimming with butterflies and birdlife.

Zimbali Lodge also caters for small conferences and remains a desirable hotspot to tie the knot. Whether you arrive with a loved one, or your family or as a solo traveller, expect to be pampered like a movie star by the attentive valets, and knowledgeable concierge.

Aside from the elegant dining options, the eco-estate is a treasure trove of activities and needs no introduction to keen golfers who can tee off from the championship 18-hole course. It’s up to you how you spend your days, but when you’re ready to venture further afield, there are traditional game parks and marine reserves to choose from, as well as glittering coastlines, estuaries and wetlands to explore within the surrounding region.

As for that perfect day out at the beach, you’ll find one just a stone’s throw away. Secluded and pristine, this is just the place to dip your toes in the Indian Ocean.