In a huge boost for tourism and investor confidence for Pennington and the South Coast region, First Group has purchased the Selborne Golf Estate, Hotel & Spa and restored it to its former glory with an investment of R28-million for the total refurbishment of this magnificent boutique hotel. Nestled in the tranquil sub-tropical setting of the South Coast, this investment is designed to rejuvenate tourism in the region as well as stimulate both golf and leisure vacation getaways. It is a little known fact that Selborne was the first ever golf housing estate in South Africa, a concept that has since grown tremendously throughout the country. Located within the heart of the estate you will find the beautifully restored Selborne Hotel, private, secure and a complete haven of relaxation and style.
‘First Group is extremely proud to be one of the first property and leisure management groups to take a renewed interest in promoting the magnificent holiday facilities available at one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in our province, and arguably South Africa. We encourage South Africans to take advantage of our weak currency, and start maximizing real value by enjoying their leisure time and family vacation in what we believe is the most beautiful country in the world. Selborne Golf Estate, Hotel & Spa is set to become one of the most sought after South African holiday destinations, so book early to ensure that you will be one of the first to experience this truly magnificent paradise,’ says Stuart Lamont – Chairman First Group.
Without detracting from the finest craftsmanship that was used during the original construction in 1954, all fixtures and fittings, upgrades, paneling, windowpanes and flooring have been meticulously restored to their former glory. With this magnificent architecture comes beautiful, bespoke luxury rooms, exclusive suites and world-class amenities designed to indulge, pamper and relax the most discerning guest. Nothing has been left to chance, with the restoration conducted to the most exacting detail of the original designs. An additional, adventurous twist of modern elegance and style has been introduced to complement the original timeless décor, with fixtures and fittings all adding to the elegance, ambience and charm of days gone by.
Tim Spencer, Operations Director First Group added, ‘To market and operate a world-class golf hotel has many advantages, but to have the privilege of offering a jewel as rare as Selborne on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast makes it even more special. I am sure that this will become ‘The must getaway place’ for many locals, plus visitors from far and wide on a more than regular basis.’
This investment is of significant, strategic importance following the relocation of the airport to the North Coast, which, since 2010, has drained the region of much needed tourism. The provision of a world-class accommodation and hospitality offering provides an added attraction to both local and international golfers who will not only be able to play this Top 100 championship course but also take advantage of the other awe-inspiring coastal, 18-hole courses all within close proximity of the hotel.
‘With golf tourists spending 120% more than a leisure traveller, the sporting code attracts mature visitors with high disposable income who enjoy luxury and convenience. With the addition of Selborne Golf Estate, Hotel & Spa as a world-class accommodation and golfing destination, the world’s fastest growing vacation category is destined to play a major role in the region’s growth,’ commented Ndabo Khoza, CEO of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal.
The refurbishment and relaunch of the hotel adds a further dimension to the South Coast economy. Job creation and employment is a vital contributor, supporting and sustaining people from the local community, many of whom have not worked in the hospitality industry before. Economic upliftment plays a key role in developing a working culture, enhancing education and driving self-sustainability. It is a significant development opportunity for the region.
‘Our role at Trade and Investment KZN is to identify and facilitate investment opportunities across our region and so it is especially encouraging during pressing economic times to see a homegrown property and leisure management giant, First Group, put up their hand and show investor confidence in our magnificent southern region. Whilst the level of unemployment is relatively high in the whole country, it is even worse in small towns and rural areas. Therefore, this investment is highly appreciated, as it will make a huge difference in Pennington and around the South Coast region. This is after all what Ubuntu is all about, and why we as a province will prosper in growth and development and remain the holiday destination of choice for millions of people from South Africa and all over the world,’ echoed Zamo Gwala, CEO of TIKZN.
So now we know that a holiday and golfing paradise is only a chip and a putt away from Durban on a leisurely 40-minute drive. This makes Selborne Golf Estate, Hotel and Spa the perfect getaway for the weekend of your dreams or an even longer stay while you soak up the gorgeous surrounds on the South Coast. If marriage is on the cards, the most imaginative concept of ‘romantic’ cannot surpass the blissful setting of Selborne’s own chapel and private beach, which makes this the perfect haven for beautiful, intimate weddings. So it goes without saying that Selborne Golf Estate, Hotel & Spa should also be top of your list for conferencing, strategic planning sessions or team building, where the occasion calls for tranquility and undisturbed peace.
‘As the General Manager of the property, I am so proud to be a part of a project of this magnitude. I’m confident Selborne Golf Estate, Hotel and Spa will become one of South Africa’s favourites once again,’ concludes Andrew Young, General Manager.
