We arrived at Sun City with the familiar excitement that comes from returning to a place woven so deeply into South Africa’s tourism story, yet this time there was something distinctly different in the air. With the 2025 Nedbank Golf Challenge fast approaching, we wanted to see how the resort had reimagined one of its most iconic landmarks: the Sun City Hotel. What we found was a property transformed, not just refreshed.

The renovations honour the legacy of the resort while embracing a forward-looking aesthetic that instantly pulls you into a world where leisure, style, and comfort all feel seamlessly connected. Sun City has always held its place as an entertainment playground, but this new chapter speaks to a more elevated traveller—one who appreciates thoughtful design, sensory experiences, and a hospitality culture that moves with the times.

Walking through the renewed spaces, we felt the unmistakable warmth of South African hospitality layered with design choices that speak to global standards. The 350 refurbished rooms reflect a calm, contemporary sensibility that still feels rooted in the energy of the destination. Inside, we were greeted by a soft palette of whites and gentle neutrals, uplifted by unexpected dashes of warm gold and turquoise. The effect is subtle yet uplifting, creating rooms that feel like serene retreats after long days spent exploring the resort or following the action on the Gary Player Golf Course.

As we moved through each area—from the contemporary bathrooms to the sleek coffee bar—the pacing of the design felt intentional. Plush king-sized beds anchor the rooms, drawing the eye toward the outdoor terrace. The terrace itself reveals mid-century modern inspirations, with clean lines framing the sweeping views over the pool and the 18-hole course beyond. It is the kind of view that makes you stop and breathe a little deeper, reminding you why Sun City has remained one of the country’s most loved destinations for decades.

The heart of the hotel’s outdoor offering now beats strongly behind the property, where a gigantic pool area has been completely revitalised into a social and lifestyle hub. At the centre is a dedicated DJ island—an unexpected but clever design feature that promises to shape the mood of the space as day turns to night. Even in its quiet moments, the area carries a sense of possibility, with wide loungers, shaded nooks, and an inviting expanse of water creating an atmosphere that feels both indulgent and unhurried.

The poolside setting strikes a balance between tranquillity and anticipation, making it easy to picture how the space will come alive when guests gather here during the golf week, drawn by the scenery, the vibe, and the relaxed spirit that defines Sun City.

We were particularly drawn to the transformed Sun Terrace restaurant, which has always been a staple of the resort but now feels entirely redefined. The designers approached the space with a clear intention to honour Tswana cultural heritage while introducing refined contemporary elements. The result is a warm, textured, and visually arresting space that feels both local and global. Panoramic views spill into the restaurant through new retractable glass doors, creating a seamless flow between indoors and out. This design choice not only frames the breathtaking landscape but also brings a sense of openness that enhances the dining experience. Sitting there, we felt connected to the surrounding environment in a way that feels unusual for a hotel restaurant, where the natural beauty becomes part of the meal.

As the aromas of freshly baked croissants and rich barista coffees filled the air, we were reminded that the renovation is not only visual—it is experiential. The interactive dining concept turns everyday meals into theatre, with chefs preparing dishes in full view. There is something captivating about watching ingredients transform in the hands of skilled professionals. It invites diners into the process, blurring the line between kitchen and table. We found ourselves lingering longer than planned, drawn in by the sizzling, the conversations, and the gentle hum of activity that creates its own kind of rhythm. This sensory-rich approach to food aligns beautifully with the overall reimagining of the hotel, where every detail is designed to evoke emotion.

Throughout our stay, what stood out most was the confidence with which the Sun City Hotel has been reimagined. This is not a cosmetic facelift but a rethinking of how travellers engage with space, comfort, and experience. As the Nedbank Golf Challenge draws crowds from across the world, the hotel feels perfectly positioned to welcome them with a refreshed sense of place—one that celebrates both its heritage and its future. We left with the sense that this renovation represents more than just a new design direction; it marks a renewed commitment to making Sun City not only a destination but an evolving experience for travellers, food enthusiasts, and leisure seekers alike.