The Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom is showing its world-class level of tourism offerings with big wins at the recent Lilizela Tourism Awards.
Stretching 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding, the KZN South Coast boasts some 58 golden beaches, two internationally-renowned dive sites, 11 quality golf courses and some of the country’s most incredible heritage sites and hinterland tours. Undeniably a key holiday site, as well as an emerging business tourism destination,
“The KZN South Coast is positioning itself on the world stage as an enviable tourism destination that provides quality service and accommodation amidst some of the globe’s most magnificent natural scenery,” said CEO of Ugu South Coast Tourism, Phelisa Mangcu. “The recent wins at the Lilizela Tourism Awards serve as confirmation the combined efforts of both government and the private sector to elevate the region are being correctly implemented and well received. We, at Ugu South Coast Tourism, will continue to provide the necessary support and exposure to encourage this upward trajectory.”
The KwaZulu-Natal Lilizela Tourism Awards, held on Wednesday, 30 October at Fairmont Zimbali Resort, saw the KZN South Coast walking away with four wins and a finalist across five of the awards’ categories. These included:
- Action and Adventure category: Wild 5 Adventures
- Two-star Self-Catering Exclusive category: Dolphinview Self-catering Accommodation
- Five-star Country House category: Days at Sea Beach Lodge
- Five-star Lodge category: The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa
- (Finalist) Hotel category: Umthunzi Hotel & Conference
The regional winners were automatically positioned as contenders for the national Lilizela Tourism Awards. These awards, organised by South African Tourism, are the only countrywide celebration of tourism excellence in South Africa. They serve to recognise and reward tourism players and businesses who work passionately to deliver a world-class product or service, thereby growing South Africa’s global destination competitiveness.
For the 2019 edition, the KZN South Coast celebrated The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa having been named as the winner in the Five-star Lodge category. In addition to the first-place spot, the KZN South Coast had two finalists; Wild 5 Adventures in the Action and Adventure category; as well as Days at Sea Beach Lodge in the Five-star Country House category.
Mangcu congratulated the recipients for well-deserved recognition: “Your continued level of high service and tourism offerings expand the tourism footprint of KZN South Coast onto the global stage!”
The Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT) – tasked with expanding the region’s tourism offerings – provides extensive business and development support to the establishments and attractions in the South Coast. As part of its mandate, USCT has initiated the Great Drives Out route in stunning hinterland regions. Visitors benefit from truly unique tours of areas such as The KwaNzimakwe Multi-Trails and KwaXolo Caves.
For more information about Ugu South Coast Tourism, visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za, or follow on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using the handles #travelsouthcoast #tourismsouthcoast #kznsouthcoast.
