Durban - The 120-room Blue Marlin Hotel is idyllically situated in beautiful, tranquil surroundings overlooking the ocean at Scottburgh, 40 minutes south of Durban.
Generations have fond memories of holidays at this “grand old lady” which, for more than 60 years, has been a place for making and meeting lifelong friends.
This family hotel offers excellent value for money and personal service. It is a popular honeymoon destination and caters for weddings and conferences.
From Richard Cele at the 24-hour reception desk through to manager Malthee Singh, the staff are helpful and friendly – and this is why guests return year after year.
The Blue Marlin is undergoing a multimillion-rand upgrade that will ensure first-class accommodation while maintaining its family-friendly ambience and providing the personal service for which it is renowned.
The first phase is complete, with tasteful improvements to the bar, dining room, swimming pool area, children’s playroom and games room.
Being a family hotel, children’s facilities are a priority. These include a trampoline and playground, as well as an indoor soft-play area. Babysitting services are available over peak periods.
The hotel’s Lighthouse restaurant offers a set menu for dinners and à la carte for brunches and lingering lunches.
There are a ladies’ bar and wedding and conference facilities.
Free wi-fi is available in public areas.
Phase two of the revamp will focus on the bedrooms.
Accommodation includes double and family rooms, many with a sea view. All rooms are en suite and have ceiling fans, complimentary tea and coffee and DStv.
There is direct access from the hotel to the protected, unspoilt beach only a stone’s throw away.
The beach is ideal for bathing, surfing and fishing. There are also activities for kids of all ages, including a super tube and mini golf.
For the more adventurous, boats may be hired to go deep-sea fishing.
The launch site for the Aliwal Shoal, a world-class scuba diving spot known for its abundance of ragged tooth sharks, is 1km from Scottburgh.
Two wrecks, which attract a stunning array of sea creatures, make this one of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
The TC Robinson Nature Reserve is less than 500m from the hotel and stretches 20 hectares along the Mpambinyoni River, with 12km of trails, great for bird-watching and hiking.
Not for nothing is the area also known as the “Golf Coast” as it boasts many excellent golf courses. The nearest is the 18-hole Scottburgh Golf Club.
Scottburgh hosts several events throughout the year, including the popular Classic Car Show in July.
The Crocworld Conservation Centre is 3km from Scottburgh and from April to December you may tour the Sezela sugar mill.
For thrills – and stunning natural beauty – head to Oribi Gorge or the Pennington Eco and Adventure Centre less than 5km from Scottburgh. The Hope Shop in Umkomaas is a must-visit for the anyone looking for mementoes of the South Coast. Or take your pick from the nearby beaches, all of which have Blue Flag status.
visit: www.bluemarlinhotel.co.za - Sunday Tribune