A national treasure
South Africa’s most cherished hotel stands majestically on Umhlanga’s beachfront, overlooking the Indian Ocean & the iconic lighthouse.
The Oyster Box
Umhlanga Rocks, KwaZulu-Natal
A timeless icon
Occupying a majestic location on the Umhlanga beachfront in KwaZulu-Natal province, The Oyster Box is one of South Africa’s most celebrated hotels, as famous for its remarkable coastal views as the understated luxury and gracious hospitality that have become the hallmarks of this cherished seaside destination.
Set just 15 minutes’ drive from King Shaka International Airport, The Oyster Box offers an array of individually decorated rooms and suites, an award-winning spa set amid tropical gardens, and a mouth-watering menu of restaurants and bars.
With South Africa’s Covid-19 recovery well underway, we are delighted to once again welcome international travellers back to The Oyster Box.
All the reasons to love Summer Lodge
Summer Lodge at a glance
Extensive cellar of wines selected by our award-winning sommelier
Member of Relais & Châteaux
Three AA Rosette fine dining restaurant & Whisky Bar
Luxurious spa with an indulging treatment menu & indoor swimming pool
Exclusive-use wedding venue
Quintessential English country house set in four acres of beautifully tended gardens
In the heart of Thomas Hardy’s Dorset
On the doorstep of the Melbury Estate, with miles of scenic countryside to explore
Sister property The Acorn, a 16th-century coaching inn, just across the village, with real ales & a skittle alley
Give the very best
Exceptional dining experiences, overnight escapes and thoughtful surprises... Our vouchers create the perfect gift, from spa journeys and floral workshops to the ultimate bespoke wine tasting experience with our expert sommelier and cellar master Eric Zwiebel.
Innovative cuisine
Inspired by an abundance of superb local ingredients, including Dorset Vinny Blue Cheese and Dorset Beef, and ingredients grown in the hotel gardens and polytunnels, Executive Chef Steven Titman has created a timeless menu which combines both innovative cuisine and classic signature dishes.
We care
We are proud to grow many of our own vegetables, fruits and herbs in our kitchen gardens and polytunnels, while our hotel bees create delicious honey for our guests.
Beauty in every detail
All of our guest rooms and suites are different, each with a warm and inviting country house style of its own. Expect rich fabrics and elegant furnishings, crisp Belgian linens warmed with hot water bottles, soft and enveloping bathrobes, luxury amenities, fresh fruit and homemade shortbread. There are also enchanting private cottages for extra privacy, some with their own hot tub.
The world of Summer Lodge
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Back to nature with the children
From hunting for fossils or the Gruffalo to mini beast safaris, discover thrilling activities close to Summer Lodge.
Share your #SummerLodge experience
We are always delighted to discover our guests' photos and we love to share those stories and connect in a meaningful way. Nothing makes us happier than when our guests become part of our world...