South Africa’s Grand Dame is ready to show off

In 1979, South Africans were enchanted by Africa’s most glamorous destination, but 46 years later, the grand dame Sun City hotel was showing her age.

While minor nips and tucks helped over the years, Sun International recently commenced a complete facelift for the famous entertainment mecca. The drab is gone, and the dazzle is undeniably back.

‘From the day that Sun City hotel first opened its doors South Africans have streamed through them, all caught up in the magic and the dream that Sun City offered.

We promised the glamour of Vegas, balanced by world-class family leisure and entertainment facilities. But at 46 our hotel was looking tired, so we knew we had to restore the hotel to its former glory.

There was nothing like it back then, and after the refurbishment we know that guests will agree there is nothing like it now.’



~ Brett Hoppe, Sun City General Manager

Most of the 350 rooms are scheduled to reopen in November, just in time for the 2025 Nedbank Golf Challenge and the bustling December holiday season. Visitors will likely fall in love with the Sun City hotel all over again, witnessing everything from the glamorous new porte-cochère to the attractive accommodation.

Upgrades extend to the lifts, the giant octagon pool, and the smoking casino entrance, transforming the Sun Terrace into a contemporary space for leisurely dining.

A harmonious palette of white and soft neutrals, accented by pops of warmer gold and turquoise, welcomes guests inside each elegantly refurbished room.

Contemporary bathrooms and a coffee bar lead past plush king-sized beds to the mid-century modern outdoor terrace décor, offering sweeping views over the pool and the 18-hole Gary Player Golf Course.

A marriage of culture and luxury

The redesign is not just cosmetic; it is a thoughtful integration of heritage and modern style. Ryan Ilgner, Director at interior design company Solebi-Blacksmith, notes that the new look reflects the perfect marriage between local Tswana culture and contemporary luxury.

‘Drawing inspiration from Tswana artistry, the new interior design features bold geometric motifs that echo the intricate patterns found in the newly renovated guest rooms. These rich visual elements serve as a subtle yet powerful tribute to the region’s cultural identity, grounding the modern space in authenticity and storytelling.’

~ Ryan Ilgner, Director at Solebi-Blacksmith

The new Sun City hotel guest journey

First impressions count, and the team has completely reimagined the arrival experience to create an immediate sense of awe. As guests approach the Porte-cochère, they encounter beautifully sculptured granite floors laid in intricate patterns, subtly signalling the luxury that awaits inside.

Overhead, a mesmerising light display ceiling provides stunning visuals and naturally guides visitors toward the newly designed entrance. At this point, a frameless view offers an unobstructed sightline of the hotel lobby, ensuring the wow factor is evident the moment you arrive.

Contemporary dining at the Sun City hotel

The iconic Sun Terrace restaurant has also undergone a dramatic transformation. Now an inspired fusion of Tswana cultural heritage and sleek design, the venue redefines the guest experience.

For the first time, open vistas reveal panoramic views of the breathtaking landscape, previously hidden from this beloved venue.

A standout feature is the installation of retractable glass doors, creating a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether opened wide to welcome the warmth of an African sunset or closed for a cosy, climate-controlled ambience, they maintain a continuous connection to the lush resort grounds.

Interactive culinary experiences

Dining at the Sun City hotel is no longer just about eating; it is an event. At the heart of the restaurant lies an interactive live cooking theatre where chefs prepare dishes in full view, effectively turning culinary mastery into performance art.

‘Guests will be welcomed by the aromas of freshly baked croissants, barista coffees, and sizzling delicacies, setting the tone for a sensory-rich dining journey.’

~ Ryan Ilgner

A new era of entertainment

The transformation extends well beyond the plate. Guests now descend a grand central staircase leading them to an entertainment pool level that pulses with energy.

At the heart of this lively space, a dedicated DJ island anchors the action, while curated soundscapes create a vibrant mood that shifts effortlessly from day to night.

It creates a space that celebrates both indulgence and freedom, perfect for dancing under the stars or lounging poolside with a signature cocktail.

Poolside sophistication

The adjacent resort pool area has evolved into a multi-layered sanctuary that balances family fun with elevated sophistication. Distinct children’s play zones ensure carefree moments for families, while those seeking refined relaxation can retreat to private cabanas equipped with luxury daybeds.

These elevated retreats feature refreshment stations, lounge-style dining, and personalised service, delivering the ultimate in exclusivity.

‘With this visionary transformation, the Sun Terrace and pool emerges as a dynamic cultural and lifestyle destination.

From serene breakfasts over newly unveiled vistas to vibrant evenings echoing with music and laughter, the new Sun City hotel leisure and dining offering sets a bold new benchmark for what a luxury African escape can be.’


~ Ryan Ilgner

Experience the magic of Sun City hotel

Ready to experience the glamour of the refurbished Sun City hotel firsthand? With the festive season approaching and the Grand Dame looking better than ever, now is the perfect time to plan your escape.

For more information on the stunning renovations or to secure your booking at this iconic destination, visit the Sun City hotel website.

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Win a Stay Now that you have seen the stunning transformation, why not experience it for yourself? Click here to enter our competition for a chance to win a luxury stay at the refurbished Sun City Hotel.