Hilton Worldwide to launch luxury brand in S Africa

Hilton Worldwide announced Pezula Resort & Spa, one of South Africa’s leading resorts, is set to join the luxury portfolio of Conrad Hotels & Resorts following the signing of a management agreement with resort owners, Alderney Establishment. Conrad Pezula Resort & Spa, which is expected to rebrand in November 2012, will be located in Knysna, a popular tourism hotspot, located in the Western Cape, between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth on the picturesque Garden Route Southern coastline. Recently named as one of the Top 100 Destinations in the World, Knysna is famous for its picturesque forests, lakes and mountains, its rich cultural heritage and sheltered, unspoiled beaches.  It is an ideal setting to see many forms of wildlife in their natural habitats including rhinos, leopards, giraffes and monkeys as well as exotic marine life such as whales, great white sharks and dolphins. John T A Vanderslice, global head, Luxury & Lifestyle Brands for Hilton Worldwide said: “By combining Conrad’s signature style and service standards with such a superior Resort property and location, we will create an exceptional and memorable guest experience.  For 25 years Conrad has epitomised the definition of smart luxury and our arrival in South Africa represents a key milestone in the brand’s ongoing global expansion.” The Hotel Resort itself offers sweeping views of Knysna Lagoon and beyond to the Indian Ocean and features an abundance of amenities for hotel guests including a championship golf course and a ‘Field of Dreams’ sports complex boasting four tennis courts, archery, a sports oval and golf range.  Guests can also enjoy horse riding, nature trails through the estate’s indigenous forest, canoe trips on the clear waters of the Noetzie River as well as the peaceful seclusion of Noetzie’s exclusive beach, recently voted one of the top three beaches in South Africa. Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, Development, Hilton Worldwide, Europe & Africa said: “I’m very excited at the prospect of our luxury Conrad brand making its debut in South Africa with such an outstanding and well known resort property.  Conrad Pezula Resort & Spa will be a valuable addition to our growing international hotel portfolio and helps to underline our position as one of the leading hospitality providers in the continent.” The hotel will host 78 stylish suites housed in detached villas and five larger, architecturally designed family villas, all with spectacular views, and linked by short landscaped pathways to the main building. One unique addition to the resort accommodation is Pezula’s award winning private castle, built into the cliff face and overlooking Noetzie Beach, the castle has been described as one of the most exclusive destinations in Africa.  Further guest amenities at the property include executive boardrooms, a business centre, an award winning spa and health club and the hotel’s main restaurant, Zachary’s is a winner of 12 different gourmet-led awards and also features one of the area’s largest wine cellars. Keith Stewart of owners Alderney Establishment said: “We sought an internationally recognised brand that matches our strategy to provide world class facilities and service.  Conrad’s established global credentials makes for a compelling partnership and will help us to deliver a truly exceptional guest experience.”