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The Oyster Box

Umhlanga Rocks, KwaZulu-Natal

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A timeless icon

Occupying a majestic location on the Umhlanga beachfront in KwaZulu-Natal province, The Oyster Box is one of South Africa’s most celebrated hotels, as famous for its remarkable coastal views as the understated luxury and gracious hospitality that have become the hallmarks of this cherished seaside destination.

Set just 15 minutes’ drive from King Shaka International Airport, The Oyster Box offers an array of individually decorated rooms and suites, an award-winning spa set amid tropical gardens, and a mouth-watering menu of restaurants and bars.

With South Africa’s Covid-19 recovery well underway, we are delighted to once again welcome international travellers back to The Oyster Box.

Meet the flagbearers of traditional Irish culture

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Fire, stone & wood: Itinerary 1

Blacksmith hammering an iron rode with sparks

The blacksmith

Visit a working forge and learn how the bars of metal are transformed into the most ornate contemporary artwork by this internationally acclaimed blacksmith. Work the blacksmith’s bellows to redden the fire, take up the hammer and work metal on the anvil to make your own piece of artwork.

irish craftmsan carving wood

The furniture maker

Follow the journey of our native Irish trees from sawn planks through the workshop to their final iteration as a beautiful piece of furniture. Learn the time-honoured skills of craftsmanship that shape this natural medium, find a real appreciation for the almost meditative qualities of working wood with hand tools.

Man chiseling stone with a hammer and iron rod

The stone carver

A giant in the Irish craft scene for many years, this is a special opportunity to visit a stone carvers’ workshop and understand the inspiration behind his work, from sculptures made from limestone 25 tonnes in weight to the finest Carrara marble, creating the most delicate figures.

Chisel, clay & cloth: Itinerary 2

Cutting out a section of Irish tweed

The textile designer

A veritable force in Irish textile design, this local designer is pushing the boundaries of contemporary Irish fashion. Explore how Irish textiles are used to create handmade, one-off pieces that combine beautiful Irish fabrics with modern tailoring - a must-see for fashion aficionados.

Spinning wet pottery on a pottery wheel

The ceramicist

Visit a local ceramicist's studio and peruse her collection of stoneware and porcelain inspired by the Connemara landscape. Known for experimenting with smoke-firing techniques and making her own glazes, join our ceramicist at her potter’s wheel and get a hands-on feel for throwing Irish pottery.

Man drawing a line on wood with a ruler and pencil

The contemporary carpenter

Visit a woodwork designer at his intimate workshop and discover the long legacy of wood craftsmen in his family, fused with his own sense of contemporary design. As well as learning about the craft and his passion for woodwork, you will have the opportunity to try your hand at using traditional tools and working with Irish hardwood.

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We are proud to be part of a number of select and exclusive collections and memberships that share our values of outstanding service, exceptional guest experiences and generous hospitality.

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London

  • Hotel 41
  • The Milestone Hotel & Residences
  • The Rubens at the Palace
  • The Egerton House Hotel
  • The Chesterfield Mayfair
  • The Montague on the Gardens

Dorset

  • Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Restaurant
  • The Acorn inn

Ireland

  • Ashford Castle
  • The Lodge at Ashford Castle
  • Hatch Hall

Edinburgh

  • 100 Princes Street

Guernsey

  • The Old Government House Hotel & Spa
  • The Duke of Richmond Hotel

South Africa

  • Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat
  • The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
  • The Oyster Box

Botswana

  • Xigera Safari Lodge

Geneva

  • Hotel d'Angleterre

Florida

  • The Chesterfield Palm Beach

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