Words by KingPhewa
Greeted by enthusiastic porters and welcome staff, you just know you have arrived at illustrious beacon of heritage, opulence and century-old experiences – The Victoria Falls Hotel, a home away from home to many and a bucket list item to plenty more.
For generations this spectacular 100 plus roomed grand lady has been a destination for families looking for the perfect base to experience one of the natural wonders of the world, the jaw-dropping Victoria Falls. Over the decades still, this hotel, has seen the guest profile evolve to include a more varied demographic which particularly includes those seeking top class service, and the ultimate in comfort and relaxation. Those, like us, seeking a jaunt of a romanticism with a backdrop of nature and relaxation, the Victoria Falls Hotel did not disappoint.
After days of exploring a border town and its surrounds that invites many from far and wide, here are a few reasons why The Victoria Falls Hotel stood out to us for all the details in service rendered, also suggesting why this should be on your list of hotels to choose from for for your dose of luxurious accommodations when in the border town of Victoria Falls:
A team like no other
- From the moment you arrive, the porters, reception and support staff operate in brilliant unison. Your bags are collected, and as you make your way to the reception, you are blessed with a thirst-quenching homemade lemonade, perfectly combatting the warm temperatures, and further accompanied by a wet cooling towel. The paperwork was only a matter of a signature. The reception team explained the facilities with vigour which naturally piqued our anticipation.
- Nothing was too much for the housekeeping and restaurant staff as any and every request was met with an enthusiastic “Yes!” From understanding their offerings to the most gracious hospitality and attention to detail, they ensured that you that the only finger you had to lift was to bring food to your mouth.
Wondrous vistas
- Stepping out onto the Stanley Terrace, you are met with the most incredible lawns; lush, vibrant, and expertly manicured. The horizon is framed by the famed “smoke that thunders” of the Victoria Falls. The view is breath taking and every time you see it the feeling of venturing beyond the ground to see it up-close becomes one you yearn for. The trees abundantly strewn across the property add much needed shade, but more significantly are rumoured to be hundreds of years old.
- There is nowhere you don’t want to spend time. The courtyard between reception and the main dining space is a calm and peaceful space that prompts you to take a moment and literally smell the flowers. Exploring further, The Stables wing features a beautiful courtyard centred by an ornate fountain, framed by an orchard of herbs which form part of the many delectable dishes served on the property.
- The Larry Norton Gallery is a sight to behold, and features works form incredible artists from all over the continent.
- The Stone Dynamics Gallery features works in marble and other stone and is a feature near the pool for leisurely viewing. Other works are featured across the hotel grounds and make for an interesting vantage as you make your way across the property, either towards Jungle Junction, the famed spot for breakfast and dinner buffet-style discovery, or during a walk across the property as you appreciate the calming nature of the place.
A world of gastronomy
Our first taste of the culinary delights the hotel had to offer was a trio of sliders – crocodile, beef, and chicken. An interesting mix that left us excited to explore the various food options the hotel had to offer.
Our first dinner at curiously named Jungle Junction or JJ’s was an interesting experience to say the least. The path leading to the restaurant is dimly lit and as you edge closer you are met by the scent of meat on a grill and the sounds of marimbas. The restaurant, with ample seating and a quintessential bush boma design, is the perfect backdrop for food exploration
The starter station included delicious sushi varietals with accompaniments as expected. The salads included a mix of classic and adventurous options which really suited us.
Focaccia, which was the star of the bread section, was served with several butters which took it to the next level.
The star of the dinner was the main section. The grill section was a meat fest in the form of a sirloin roast, wildebeest cutlets and grilled crocodile. The meat was succulent and moreish but there was more to taste.
The traditional fare was led by sadza, a traditional Zimbabwean maize meal dish, with a delectable fall off the bone braised oxtail stew and muriwo unedovi, greens in peanut butter. The depth of flavour and the meatiness of the dish reminded me of home. Other options included a chicken and vegetable curry that similarly went down a treat with the crispiest papadums.
The crowning glory if you will, was the extensive dessert section filled with the tastiest goodies like the whole vanilla cake and several pastries including an incredible pecan nut Danish.
I will also say the masked Makishi were really a pleasure and something that really entrenched the dinner as one that is truly African
Stanley’s Terrace for dinner was also a delight. With an extensive wine list, an array of cocktails, local beers, and spirits in addition to the more familiar names, there is plenty to drink whilst watching the night set upon the hotel.
The burger with all the trimmings was juicy and filling and the grilled seabass perfectly cooked and brilliantly presented
The final piece of the puzzle was the breakfast buffet back at JJ’s. A cold section of fresh cut fruit, a variety of cereals and yoghurts started the mornings off properly. The sparkling wine amongst the fresh juices made for a pleasant surprise. Very few things beat a mimosa at breakfast.
The hot selection included the usual English breakfast standards like scrambled eggs, baked beans and sausages which made for a taste of home.
Palatial accommodations
The Stables Signature Wing Rooms feature comforting lodgings, fitted with a large couch and an inviting 4 poster bed. The bed is soft, with high quality bedding and has so much space one might have to go searching for a loved one in the middle of the night. The luxurious Victorian bathtub is the centrepiece in the bathroom which also has a large separate walk-in shower and double vanities. Our complementary massage was outstanding and the private lounge serving this level of room just adds that extra special touch.
Nostalgia like no other
The Victoria Falls Hotel is the epitome of class, luxury and an unmistakeable feel of history merging with right now. It is the perfect place to relax in the confines of great spaces and even better service from a plethora of willing and highly trained staff. It is clear to see why 2024 is the year of the 120-year celebrations.
KingPhewa is a South African based duo who through their love of food, travel and lifestyle curate and review relatable and enticing content. Their focus is on fine dining, luxury travel and all things beautiful. Follow them on Instagram @kingphewa
