Durban - Durban, and more specifically the Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel in Umhlanga Rocks Drive, has done it again.
The charming boutique hotel has scooped the World Luxury Hotel award for the second time in a row.
And it is in the running for the 2016 prize as well.
Last year, Endless Horizons was named Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in the world and this year, it picked up the top honour for Best Luxury Restaurant Hotel in the world.
It is an accolade the establishment’s Group Operations Manager, Ilze Henderson relishes.
“This award is a service-based award and it’s voted for by the public, guests and industry experts; so these are people who have stayed at the hotel and thoroughly enjoyed their stay and then commend us for the service they receive when they are here,” she explains.
“This is the second year in a row that we have won. I think the amazing staff is the reason why we won again; they really go the extra mile when it comes to service and their attention to detail is phenomenal.
“We have a rewards system based on guest feedback between the front of house and back of house departments and the winning department gets spoiled with a trip away or a dinner out, so it’s a treat we share together. And that makes them strive for perfection daily.”
Henderson says their staff have a passion for what they do. They work because they love doing what they do and that makes a huge difference.
“We’ve had staff that have been here for over five years, and the two newest members have been here for a year-and-a-half, so we are a close-knit team all running with the same vision,” she smiles.
“And returning guests get to know them; the regulars become our friends, we call them by name, and of course, they know us by name. So it’s not like your normal corporate hotel; we’re a family.”
When it comes to hospitality, Henderson says the biggest challenge is that it becomes a lifestyle; it’s no longer a job; you are always on call and always available.
Often referred to as one of Durban’s best kept secrets, the hidden gem boasts 12 beautifully-decorated bedrooms designed with a serene, luxurious feel. There’s a decidedly Eastern influence to the hotel’s decor, with koi ponds and antique Chinese wall art and decor pieces.
“We’re in the middle of the city and when you walk in here it feels like a resort hotel in Mauritius – especially when you consider the incredible view of the ocean,” Henderson explains.
“And we like it that way. We like to make you feel like you are the only one here.”
The hotel features a large wooden deck and infinity swimming pool offering an alfresco dining area. The conference room and restaurant are known for their delectable food and beverages; try a signature cocktail on the deck at night.
Under the management and detailed eye of Chef de Patron, Belinda Kistan, the menu incorporates dishes from across the globe. Belinda believes in using what is fresh and seasonal on the menu. This combination of attention to detail and fresh local ingredients, combined with award-winning wines from the Wildekrans Wine Estate is unparalleled by any other dining experience.
Endless Horizons has also added a monthly High Tea to its list of treats.
Each event is themed, with The Great Gatsby being next up. People are invited to dress up and sample the delectable dishes prepared by the culinary team.
Daily News