Kedibone Modise
Mbombela - Mpumalanga, the place where the sun rises, is known for its unbelievably beautiful resorts, hotels and magnificent landscapes.
Located in Secunda, only an hour from Johannesburg is Graceland Hotel, Casino and Country Club, which has just undergone a R60-million refurbishment.
The hotel's structural design, perfectly manicured gardens, the golf course certainly drew our attention as we drove into the hotel's facilities.
The staff and management were already waiting for us at the hotel reception with beautiful, colourful welcome drinks.
Taking us on a tour was the General Manager Willem Van Rooyen, who explained that every item in the hotel, including pillows, mattresses, furniture, crockery, towels, the spa (Rootz Boutique Spa) and the cocktail bar (Moo Bar) were all brand new, and we were about to experience all that luxurious and exciting treats.
Van Rooyen added that providing exceptional family-friendly entertainment is one of Graceland's top priorities. “We want the entire family to feel spoilt for choice with a variety of activities from which to choose - both indoor and outdoor. Parents can create memorable moments together with their children, or take advantage of our supervised childcare facilities so that they can enjoy some downtime on their own.”
The place first opened its doors in July 1997, as new South Africa's first official licensed casino. Graceland has modernised and opened many new facilities to cater for changing customer demand, including: a newly-styled main casino, upgraded hotel rooms at the 4-star Peermont Walmont hotel, gym facility and upgraded golf course.
The improved children's entertainment area includes a revamped videogames arcade and modular play area. The New York loft-style Madison's Bistro and Family Restaurant, the sensational, new cocktail venue - Moo Bar, upgraded pool and leisure facilities, and a feast for the senses at Rootz Boutique Spa.
The elegant new Rockefeller's Privé is a truly stylish space with 38 high denomination slots and four gaming tables - two American Roulette, one Poker and one Blackjack - a fully serviced walk-up bar and relaxing private lounge area.
When it comes to dining, guests are spoilt for choice with a wide selection of eateries to choose from. The Blue Bayou restaurant remains the perfect venue for a special occasion and Madison's Bistro and Family Restaurant. And the new cocktail bar Moo Bar is ideal for pre-or post-dinner drinks, or for after- conference refreshments, catching the game or enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon.
IOL