Nestled among the trees in Kloof Gorge and Krantzkloof Nature Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, lies the AmmaZulu African Palace. This unique establishment is renowned architect Peter Amm’s tribute to the historical treasures that capture the rich heritage of the area.
Peter Amm believes that “Our heritage is our soul” and that “Art and culture is fundamental to the human spirit.” He emphasizes the importance of celebrating it as much as possible. The theme throughout the hotel celebrates as many cultures as possible, with a special focus on the Zulu culture, incorporating elements onto and into the building and architecture.
A Lifelong Passion Project
The AmmaZulu African Palace is the life-long passion project of owner, artist, and collector, Peter Amm. He began this project almost 50 years ago, starting when he was just 13 years old after his father gave him some money to purchase a small piece of land in Kloof. The actual building of the palace began in 1998, and wherever possible, recycled material was used.
Visiting the AmmaZulu African Palace is by appointment only. Super efficient, knowledgeable, and engaging manager, Alta du Plooy, offers daily weekday tours at 10.30am and weekends at 11am, which last roughly an hour. After working at Ammazulu for 11 years, there are still features undiscovered.
Design and Architecture
The hotel was principally designed by Kevin MacGarry, an architect who was intrigued by the concept and the location. Together, they’ve been nurturing the site for 4 decades after it was initially purchased.
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The initial vision on paper proved a difficult task given the rocky terrain on what was a kidney-shaped plot of land. Rethinking the idea of building a conventional linear structure, the two decided to let the landscape dictate, meshed, and drained the site in readiness for planning permission. Even that process took another two years.
Construction started in 2004 and ended in 2009. The entrance itself is imposing - art deco-inspired enormous glass doors (saved from an Old Mutual bank) framed by high deco glass windows with sandblasted leaf detail and colored glass features. This in turn is flanked on both sides by opaque glass bricks salvaged from an old movie house - at a time when one could still smoke indoors.
Central to the building is a delicate wrought iron spiral staircase, retrieved from the old Greenacres department store in town, and stands between two elevated Carl Roberts wooden sculptures. A picture-book wrought iron staircase, salvaged from Greenacres, leads to the mezzanine level.
Two life-size vintage rickshaws unexpectedly are parked in the far right-hand corner inside the building, two of a series which Amm rescued from the municipality, with out-sized sculpted wooden rickshaw pullers.
Unique Features and Art Collection
One doesn’t want to rush. Take your time, look up above you, at the floor beneath and around at every angle, and pause often. There is far too much to mention all the magnificence here - but a few things caught my eye.
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- A full collection of “Stations of the Cross”, with their old wooden frames with Zulu Biblical verse, from St Mary’s Mission in Durban. The ancient embroidered contents were retained by the Mission and replaced by bespoke glass art by the late Jean Powell.
- There is a collection of brightly painted ear plugs; wooden head-rests and beaded waist coats on display in the upstairs lounge.
- There are dainty intricate Ardmore ceramics.
- Huge displays of dried flowers and grasses - all with peacock feathers (referencing Amm’s childhood fascination with peacocks).
- An oriental-inspired glass-topped table with faux golden antelope-antler legs.
- Enormous suspended chandeliers displaying Amms’s personal boyhood toys interspersed with teacups, kitchen sieves, mugs, and antique ceramic electricity insulators.
- Fabric art made from found objects from Thailand grace the entrance area.
The decorated pillars inside (done by artist Jane du Rand) echo the two enormous orange pillars that flank the front entrance and include old electric transformers, upside down teacups and sieves in their designs.
Once outside, it’s clear that the interiors are matched by the rich abundance of the areas’ natural beauty. Peter explains the value of their setting… “The location is unique. It sits on the edge of Krantzkloof Gorge, which feels like you’re in the middle of Africa."
Accommodation
AmmaZulu African Palace offers ten distinctive suites, all decorated differently, and all with verandas overlooking various panoramas of the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve. The suites have King size beds and your own private balcony as well as a separate lounge with tea / coffee facilities and bar fridges. The rooms are decorated with original artworks and antique bead-work.
Suite Features:
- Sweeping private balconies
- Original African art works
- Beaded panels
- Large en-suite bathrooms
- King size beds
- Separate lounge with tea / coffee facilities and bar fridges
Some rooms are smaller, one with an antique four-poster bed. Enjoy the views from your own private balcony overlooking the nature reserve. On a clear day one can even see as far as the sea. Wireless and internet facilities are also available in all our rooms and lounges.
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About AmmaZulu African Palace offers vibrant and diverse suites with private balconies that pay homage to the KwaZulu-Natal heritage. The establishment showcases an impressive collection of African art, creating a unique and exquisite experience for visitors.
The lush gardens, monumental sculptures, and stunning interiors filled with cultural artifacts contribute to its grandeur.
Additional Information
The Palace is open for adult guests only - no children under 14.The bar is not open, and alcohol is not being served, but guests may bring their own. No formal activities are being arranged, instead the Palace provides a quiet, calm, gentle refuge. Management can make suggestions for meals, excursions and activities close by.
Why You Should Visit
- Immerse yourself in innovative African art and design.
- Experience exceptional service from welcoming staff members.
- Enjoy a tranquil retreat with lush gardens and stunning views overlooking Krantzkloof Nature Reserve.
With no load shedding concerns due to a generator on-site, guests can enjoy a tranquil retreat away from city noise surrounded by fresh trees and authentic African ambiance.
Conference and Function Venues
Our conference venue can host 16 people, and our function venue can host from 15-60 people.
Activities
It is also possible to take a leisurely nature walk along the top of the gorge or play golf at the nearby country club.
Reviews
Ammazulu African Palace is a hidden gem that showcases the best of African culture and design. Guests are welcomed by friendly staff, including Zama, Alta, Leon, and Gail Ahlers, who provide exceptional service.
The art throughout the hotel is innovative and inspirational, drawing visitors' eyes to every detail from walls to ceilings. The lush garden and stunning views complement the eclectic decor reminiscent of Bali meeting West Africa in an artist's studio.
Highlighted Reviews
- "Breathtaking. We can be proud of our culture. The art is next level of innovative, creative and inspirational. Definitely worthwhile."
- "An amazing adventure of art works, your eyes are drawn to every wall, pillar and even the ceiling. It's like Bali to West Africa to South Africa and into an artists studio."
- "Wow talking about going the extra mile!! Service on a different level and the most interesting hotel you will ever visit."
- "Amazing looking place! Would love to come back here."
Know Before You Go
- Consider returning for multiple visits as each stay offers new discoveries within the intricate art-filled spaces.
- Take advantage of the delicious daily breakfast provided by helpful hostess Alta.
- Appreciate the effort put into maintaining tranquility with no worries about load shedding thanks to an on-site generator.
- Explore nearby attractions such as Krantzkloof Nature Reserve for additional nature experiences.
