Iconic Hotels & Resorts in Africa & The Indian Ocean

Instantly recognisable thanks to its picture-perfect pink exterior, Mount Nelson has been a stalwart of the Cape Town hotel scene since 1899. With its beautifully manicured gardens, extensive facilities and relaxing atmosphere, the hotel feels like a resort within the city.

The Mount Nelson Afternoon Tea at the Lounge is a highlight, popular with local residents and guests alike. With 60 tea variations and delectable sweet and savoury treats, it is a must for visitors. Thanks to impeccable, welcoming service from staff and beautifully designed suites, the Mount Nelson lives up to its reputation.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean and iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse, the Oyster Box Hotel is a Durban landmark. Instantly recognisable by its striking red-and-white striped awnings, the hotel combines timeless coastal charm and old-world glamour. Its prime beachfront location offers sweeping sea views and a warm, breezy atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

The Oyster Box High Tea, served in the elegant Palm Court, is a beloved tradition, featuring delicate pastries, savoury bites, and a refined sense of occasion that captures the essence of this legendary South African hotel.

Set within the walls of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, the Amangalla is a multi-award-winning hotel that beautifully blends history with understated luxury. Housed in a meticulously restored 17th-century building, it captures the charm of Galle Fort’s historical past with its elegant antiques, vintage furnishings, and polished teak floors.

One of Sri Lanka’s leading hotels, the serene ambience and impeccable Aman service make it a haven for those who want to explore Galle Fort, with its winding streets, art galleries and bustling cafes.

Set across two idyllic islands connected by a bridge, the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is one of the Maldives’ most recognisable luxury resorts. Best known for being home to the world’s first underwater restaurant, Ithaa, it offers guests an unforgettable dining experience beneath the ocean’s surface, surrounded by marine life.

The resort blends barefoot island charm with modern luxury, featuring elegant villas set over the turquoise lagoons and pristine beaches, as well as an underwater residence. With its innovative spirit and seamless service, Conrad Rangali remains a trailblazer. 

Opened in 2023, Atlantis The Royal has quickly established itself as one of Dubai’s most talked-about hotels. Set on the Palm Jumeirah, its striking, modern design and ultra-luxe atmosphere make it a standout even in a city synonymous with luxury hotels.

Guests can enjoy sky-high infinity pools, world-class restaurants led by celebrity chefs, and suites offering sweeping views of the Gulf and skyline. Combining bold architecture with exceptional service and amenities, Atlantis The Royal sets a new standard for contemporary luxury in Dubai.

Tucked between rugged mountains and the turquoise waters of the Musandam Peninsula, Six Senses Zighy Bay is one of Oman’s most unique resorts. Its remote setting adds to the sense of escape, with guests arriving dramatically by speedboat, 4x4, or even by paragliding onto the beach.

The resort combines rustic luxury with exceptional service and sustainability at its core. Perched high above the bay, the Sense on the Edge restaurant offers breathtaking views and fine dining, making Zighy Bay an unforgettable blend of adventure, tranquillity, and barefoot luxury.