If colonial grandeur and rich heritage appeal, the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel is the place to stay when visiting this natural wonder of the world. Its stunning location only ten minutes walk from the Falls is matched by its beautiful gardens and grande dame atmosphere, taking guests back to the heady early safari days of the 1920’s when royalty and heads of state were regular visitors. Elegant Edwardian architecture and proximity to the station recall Cecil Rhodes’ grand plan of linking Cape Town to Cairo by rail, and it is an essential stopover on a luxury train journey or as part of a safari itinerary in Zimbabwe.
The sense of history prevails in the public rooms and lounges where antique furniture, portraits of eminent visitors and framed historical documents and posters give fascinating insight into the hotel’s century of heritage. On the dining front there is a choice of three restaurants: The Livingstone Room for gourmet fine dining and soft candlelight, Stanley’s Terrace for light lunches and suppers, afternoon tea and spectacular views over the Victoria Falls Bridge and gorge, and Jungle Junction with more fabulous views and lavish evening buffets full of African flavour with traditional dance and music.
As a top luxury hotel of its era the Victoria Falls is large with several wings and a wide choice of 162 suites and rooms, many of which are recently refurbished. The most dramatic views over the Zambezi Gorge are mostly reserved for the suites, and other rooms look onto the beautiful tropical gardens, lawns and courtyards. All the rooms are decorated in elegant style to match the old world atmosphere of the hotel, adding the modern conveniences of air-conditioning, in-room safes, satellite TV and wifi.
With so many activities on offer in the Victoria Falls area, it’s hard to choose between sunset Zambezi cruise, helicopter flight, elephant back ride and so much more, or just relax beside the swimming pool in the beautiful grounds, play a game of tennis, enjoy a massage or settle into the library with a good book. Full of colonial charm and resonating with history, it’s the landmark hotel at the Victoria Falls.
