Oyster Box Hotel, KwaZulu-Natal

The 86 rooms and suites are highly individualized, yet unfailingly appealing, and all feature California style shutters and a vast array of South African artwork. There are 11 different room types, from the entry level garden facing classic rooms (well sized at 32 m²) to the 246m² Presidential Suite over 2 levels with a private elevator and rim flow pool. Relax at the glorious swimming pools, stroll through the vibrant holiday town of Umhlanga Rocks or take a 3 minute walk along the promenade to safe swimming beaches.

A remarkable diversity of atmospheres has been created. The Palm Court is pure plantation style, with its white wicker chairs, paddle fans and intricate hand painted tiles, the Oyster Bar is sleeker, with its pearl coloured chairs, the glass floor looking into the wine cellar below, the oversized chandeliers, the framed original photos of the hotel and the hand written notes of past guests, Philip Mountbatten included. Upstairs, the Lighthouse Bar takes on a funkier edge, with deep reds and leather echoing the red striped lighthouse outside, while the Chukka Bar is a pukka gentleman's club.

The three restaurants and three bars offer guests ample choices, not to mention the multi-level Spa with its six treatment rooms and the intimate 24 seater cinema.