In 1979 South Africans were enchanted with what was Africa’s most glamorous hotel, but 46 years on and the grand dame Sun City Hotel has been showing her age.
Nips and tucks over the years helped, but last year Sun International set about giving the famous entertainment and leisure mecca a complete facelift so gone is the drab, and back is the dazzle.
Brett Hoppe, Sun City General Manager says, “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.”
From November this year, most of the hotel’s 350 rooms will be ready to reopen in time for the 2025 Nedbank Golf Challenge and the busy December season. From the glamorous new port cochere to the attractive new rooms, visitors will fall in love with the magic of this iconic hotel all over again.
The upgrade also included the hotel lifts, its giant octagon pool and the smoking casino entrance, and transforming the Sun Terrace into a contemporary space for leisurely dining.
Inside each elegantly refurbished room, guests will be greeted by a soft and harmonious palate of white and soft neutrals, lifted by pops of warmer gold and turquoise. The new contemporary bathrooms and coffee bar lead past plush king sized beds, to the mid-century modern outdoor terrace décor with sweeping views over the pool and the 18-hole Gary Player Golf Course beyond.
Ryan Ilgner, Director at interior design company Solebi-Blacksmith, says Sun City Hotel’s 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.
The new guest journey
“The wow factor hits you the moment you approach the reimagined Porte-cochere. Beautifully sculptured granite floors in intricate patterns greet you, setting the tone for the luxurious experience that lies ahead. A mesmerizing light display ceiling dazzles with its stunning visuals, guiding you toward the newly designed entrance, where a frameless view offers an unobstructed sightline of the hotel lobby. This first impression is just the beginning of a truly wonderful journey.
The new Sun Terrace restaurant
“The iconic Sun Terrace restaurant has undergone a stunning transformation—an inspired fusion of Tswana cultural heritage and sleek, contemporary design. This reimagined space will now redefine the guest experience, offering not only world-class dining but also panoramic views of the breath-taking landscape—open vistas never before revealed from this beloved venue.
“A standout feature of the transformation is the installation of retractable glass doors that create a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor. Whether opened wide to let in the warmth of an African sunset or closed for a cosy, climate-controlled ambiance, they maintain a continuous connection to the lush resort grounds.
Interactive dining
“At the heart of the dining experience is an interactive live cooking theatre, where chefs prepare dishes in full view, 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.
Entertainment area
“The transformation extends beyond the plate. A grand central staircase now leads guests down to an entertainment pool level alive with energy. At its core: a dedicated DJ island, where curated soundscapes create a vibrant mood by day or night. From dancing under the stars to lounging poolside with signature cocktails, the space is a celebration of both indulgence and freedom.
Pool area
“The adjacent resort pool area is now a multi-layered sanctuary, blending family fun with elevated sophistication. Children’s play zones ensure carefree moments for families, while private cabanas with luxury daybeds offer seclusion for those seeking refined relaxation. These elevated retreats include 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.”