Article | Rudo Nhamoinesu
As I step into the grand Victoria Falls Hotel, I am immediately struck by its elegant architecture and timeless beauty. This magnificent hotel, known affectionately as the “grand old lady,” has been a fixture in the town of Victoria Falls for over a century, situated on a plateau overlooking the Zambezi River and the thundering Victoria Falls it truly is a breathtaking location. The Victoria Falls Hotel was built in 1904, during the height of the British Empire, and its distinctive colonial-style architecture reflects the grandeur and opulence of that era. From the moment you enter the hotel, you are transported back to a time of glamour and sophistication, when travel was an adventure and hotels were more than just a place to stay. As with its location, the hotel’s infrastructure is equally impressive, with its intricate wrought-iron balconies, sweeping staircases, and ornate chandeliers. Every detail has been carefully designed to create an atmosphere of elegance to transport you back in time to the golden age of travel. The hotel has distinctive features, such as the charming vintage elevator, which still operates using a manual pulley system. There are also numerous historical artefacts and photographs on display throughout that offer a fascinating glimpse into the hotel’s rich history and the many famous guests who have stayed here over the years. In addition to its stunning architecture and unique infrastructure, the Victoria Falls Hotel is also renowned for its impeccable service and world-class amenities. Whether you’re enjoying a gourmet meal in one of the hotel’s restaurants, relaxing by the pool, or indulging in a spa treatment, you will be treated like royalty from the moment you arrive, and I sure was!
NEW EDWARDIAN THEMED ROOMS
The Victoria Falls Hotel underwent major renovations, including a complete room redesign. A fulfilling experience that included the rooms being stripped down to brick and a fresh décor design being implemented. Originally an Edwardian hotel, the décor had lost its character over the years, with the former décor resembling a more Victorian hotel. During the renovations, the prior design was replaced with a more length king-size bed is inviting, with crisp white linens, a plush duvet and blackout curtains that promise a restful night’s sleep. The ornate moldings and trim continue throughout the space, creating a sense of grandeur. My personal favourite was the headboard inspired by the antique suitcase dating back to the Edwardian era. The leather straps on the headboard mimic those of the suitcase. This, combined with the framed newspaper clippings over the bed, adds a touch of history to the space. The room is equipped with all the modern amenities you would expect, including air conditioning, high-speed internet access, and a flat-screen TV. The bathroom is equally lavish, with patterned tiles, a marble walk-in shower, and a large rainfall shower head that provides a luxurious and invigorating experience. The toiletries are all high quality, and the towels are soft and fluffy. There is plenty of space to store your belongings, with a large closet and dresser. The Edwardian rooms at the Victoria Falls Hotel I believe are a true masterpiece of design and luxury. They offer a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone looking for a taste of the Edwardian era in the heart of Africa. The attention to detail is impressive, and the level of comfort and luxury is unparalleled. I highly recommend staying in one of these rooms if you have the opportunity!
THE JUNGLE JUNCTION
The Jungle Junction is a unique dining experience that offers guests a taste of Africa. The restaurant is located in a thatched-roof pavilion surrounded by lush gardens and has a relaxed, informal atmosphere. The décor is inspired by the colonial era, with rattan chairs, wooden tables, and African artefacts on display. The buffet-style dining experience offers a range of African and international dishes, including game meats, curries, stews, and salads. The food is prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and is cooked to perfection by the hotel’s talented chefs. One of the highlights of the Jungle Junction is the interactive kitchen, where guests can watch the chefs at work and even participate in the cooking process. The chefs are happy to share their knowledge and expertise, and guests can learn about the flavours and techniques used in African cuisine. The Jungle Junction also offers live entertainment, with local musicians and dancers performing traditional African music and dance. This adds to the lively atmosphere and creates a truly authentic African experience. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is a popular choice for families and groups. It is also a great place to celebrate special occasions, with private dining options available for groups of up to 60 people.