While in a beautiful location. the Fairmont Zimbali Lodge is tired and has seen better days. We could not get shampoo or wash clothes in our room. "Sorry, the hotel is out of them now". The toilet smelled so badly of urine that even PineSol could not get rid of the smell. It is so dark and poorly lit that one cannot see anything at night. Twice in four days our stay was interrupted (once at 9 am on a Sunday morning) trying to sell us time shares - and were indignant we did not want to speak with them.

This organizaiton seems to be pushing the Farimont Zimbali Resort -- their new mega-hotel on the same property and trying to sell condos. I have stayed at other Fairmont hotels, and this is not worthy of their name.

Nice hotel north of Durban in the wealth-enclave of Zimbali (or property bubble if you wish!). Grand old colonial touches, combined with great views, a golf course, and a rainforest! Rooms large, comfy beds. Decor perhaps a bit tired. Restaurant, Thandi, provided interesting local fare, including the obligatory curry options, Alas, chef must have been having an off-night, as both our meals were tough and a bit bland, definitely not 5* fare. Otherwise a great experience, and worth the money (if you get a discounted rate that is).

Just stayed at the
Lodge (1 night) and the Forest Suites (2 nights). The rooms appear nice enough but are poorly maintained (sink blocked, lights not working, door lock faulty). Disappointing. We were there as part of a corporate conference but I found the service slow and generally the staff were pretty disinterested. Don't order an irish coffee in the bar of the Resort hotel -I got a stirred up latte with some watery cream on top and that was after sending the first one back! All prices are premium, pity the experience doesn't match.

My partner and I stayed here for two nights in September 2011. The staff were very attentive, very helpful and incredibly accommodating. Wish we'd stayed longer, but time was short. The pool area was a very welcome oasis at the end of the day, and we spent many hours relaxing around in and out of the water. Only one concur: They served wine and water around the pool (water's edge) in glass. Was a bit worrying if any glass had broken. Favourite part of our stay? Two eagles perched outside our room every morning and evening! So beautiful.....