Luxury hotel group Six Senses has started work on its first project in Sub-Saharan Africa. Slated to welcome guests in 2025, the new resort – comprised of an exclusive collection of stilted eco-lodges – is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe’s breathtaking Victoria Falls National Park.
The UNESCO-protected area is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife including lions, elephants, buffalos, zebras and several antelope species. Built to blend in seamlessly in with the surroundings, the partially concealed tree-level lodges are the perfect setting for watching the animals in their natural habitat.
Six Senses Victoria Falls will consist of 22 lodges with private terraces, as well as 15 deluxe lodges with suspended pools and a further 17 individual pool villas, all connected via a network of raised walkways and bridges.
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The stilted wooden structures have been carefully designed by Worth International, DSA Architects International and CKR Consultant Engineers to “ensure the lightest possible footprint” and will be fabricated off-site to further minimize disruption.
Six Senses has brought in London-based DSGN for the interiors. The design studio has been tasked with capturing “the eclectic and authentic spirit of Zimbabwe”. While we’re yet to see renderings of the resort, expect spacious abodes with beautiful timber floors, bespoke furnishings and original pieces from local artisans throughout.
In addition to the collection of stilted eco-lodges, Six Senses Victoria Falls will be home to a welcome pavilion, raised restaurant and lounge, braai bar and sunset look-out bar. As you would expect from the luxury hotel brand, the retreat will also boast a range of wellness facilities including four treatment rooms, a yoga deck, outdoor hot pools, a panoramic sauna and a jungle gym (you’ll be accompanied by a ranger at all times!).
When guests can bring themselves to leave the resort, there is plenty to explore nearby from the area’s famed waterfalls and verdant rainforests to the incredible private game reserve.
Victoria Falls is the latest addition to Six Senses’ burgeoning portfolio. The hotel group recently opened resorts in India, Israel and Ibiza, and has announced plans to launch new properties in London, Geneva and Rome in 2023.
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