Club Med Tinley — Photo by Club Med

The hospitality landscape in South Africa is about to be redefined with the upcoming launch of Club Med Tinley, the first Club Med resort in the country, with a distinctive combination of beach and safari experiences.

This ground-breaking development is a result of a collaborative partnership between the esteemed operators, Club Med, and the Collins Residential Consortium, developers of Club Med Tinley. As the first of its kind in the country, this all-inclusive resort is poised to make contributions to the region, ushering in opportunities for job creation and sustainable growth.

Club Med, the renowned pioneer in all-inclusive holidays, has been offering unparalleled holiday experiences around the world since 1950. With more than 38 years' operating in South Africa from its Johannesburg based commercial office, Club Med has established itself as a desirable brand for South Africans wanting to experience all-inclusive international beach and mountain resorts. The company serves both Leisure travelers and Meetings & Events (MICE) corporate customers based across Southern Africa.

With a focus on Ski holidays as well as Mauritius and Seychelles destinations, the brand also thrives in locations such as the Maldives, Bali, Thailand, and Turkey particularly popular with South Africans. Underpinning its global footprint and international touch, Club Med features three South African Resort Managers and more than 60 dedicated South African G.Os (Gentle Organizers) stationed across its worldwide resorts.

All-inclusive hospitality with Club Med Tinley

Club Med Tinley represents a great step forward in the hospitality industry, serving as one of the larger hospitality projects in South Africa. It is anticipated to generate over 800 direct jobs and an additional 1,500 indirect jobs, invigorating the local economy and empowering individuals and families with newfound opportunities. During its realisation, the project will also employ 1,200 construction workers, providing a significant boost to the job market.

Supported by South African debt funders and equity partners, Club Med Tinley represents an investment exceeding 2 billion rands under the enterprise of Tinley Leisure Pty Ltd. The construction period is estimated to be 28 months, commencing in early 2024, with the resort opening scheduled around July 2026.

Club Med commits to eco-certifying the construction of all its new Resorts with BREEAM or their local equivalent. BREEAM is one of the most recognized international and independent eco-construction certifications in the world. In South Africa, the aim is to achieve a 4-star rating from the Green Building Council of SA (GBCSA) for this development.

Regarding the Tinley Resort's operations, Club Med will adhere to Green Globe standards: an international and independent sustainable tourism certification. This standard rewards establishments in the tourism sector that are committed to improving the environmental and social management of their activity in 4 fields: sustainable management, economic/social, cultural heritage and the environment. 100% of Club Med resorts are Green Globe Certified.

Sustainability is a key consideration to Club Med and this project embraces environmental stewardship by spearheading the "Bye Bye Plastics" movement, which looks at progressively cutting the usage of plastic water bottles and single-use plastics in resorts, a commitment already successfully implemented in the brand's resorts around the world. Echoing this, another eco-commitment by Club Med aims to achieve food waste reduction across all resorts by 2030.

A notable aspect of this project is the collaboration between Club Med and Agrisud, a distinguished non-profit organization. Together, they are committed to fostering the growth and development of local businesses within the resort's supply chain, thereby driving inclusive growth within the community and nurturing sustainable livelihoods.

A jewel of KwaZulu-Natal

The strategic location of Club Med Tinley adds to its charm and beauty. Nestled on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, this cosmopolitan haven offers upmarket accommodation destinations, leisure facilities, and warm weather throughout the year. The resort is conveniently accessible via the modern and convenient King Shaka International Airport, making it an attractive destination for both local and international travellers. The airport is internationally acclaimed as the best Regional Airport in Africa since 2015 by the International Skytrax awards.

Club Med Tinley promises a memorable South African beach and bush experience, providing guests with the opportunity to reconnect with nature and the wild. The resort will feature a surf-lifestyle concept for healthy beach holidays and will be shaped by art and local culture. Additionally, guests will have the chance to embark on a safari experience to discover the wildlife of Africa.

Beach bliss and safari wonders

The Beach Resort at Club Med Tinley is nestled on the North Coast, fondly known as the "Dolphin Coast," and offers panoramic views of pristine beaches and coastal dunes. While carrying a strong flair of the African continent, the resort interiors, entertainment and even food and beverages are inspired by the location, climate, and cultures of Southern Africa. Prepare to enjoy the resort staying in either the Premium rooms or Exclusive Collection space accommodation.

The resort will feature fun family activities creating a warm and inclusive environment. This will translate into world-class kids' clubs with tailored facilities and certified staff for children of all ages, from 4 months old, inspiring curiosity, fun, and friendship.

Activities and sports are an integral part of the Club Med DNA and expertise, and active guests can expect a diverse array of land and water activities. One will find sporting sites and professional G.Os who aim to have you discover new sports or improve your skills. With an all-inclusive holiday at Club Med Tinley, holidaymakers can enjoy sailing, surfing, diving, snorkeling, the very first Surf School at Club Med (for adults & kids), paddle tennis, beach rugby, beach volley, bocce ball fields, archery, team building activities, and a wellness center.

For those looking for a wellness retreat, the resort will offer an indulgent spa, fitness center with several classes every day, a yoga school and an adult-only Zen pool and bar where you can find the perfect peace, relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Resort Centre will offer a shopping experience as well as gourmet food and beverages at either the restaurant, bar or the wine corner. In this location, entertainment, artistic performances and live music will happen both during daytime and evening. In contrast, the Exclusive Collection space will provide an oasis of tranquility and indulgence with a serene lounge area, refined bar, luxurious pool, and a large range of exclusive services.

In addition to the idyllic beach experience, guests at Club Med Tinley will also have the opportunity to stay at a Big-5 Game Reserve, located 3.5 hours by road or a swift 40-minute flight from the resort. Here, an 80-room lodge will be developed to Club Med standards in order to offer guests a dual beach and safari experience during their stay.

With Club Med Tinley set to impact the South African hospitality landscape, it is poised to become a symbol of transformation, empowerment, and sustainable growth for the region and the country.