The Palace of the Lost City

Overview

Set within the renowned Sun City Resort in South Africa’s North West Province, The Palace of the Lost City is a grand five-star retreat inspired by the legend of a lost African kingdom. Since opening in 1992, the hotel has become one of the country’s most distinctive luxury properties, combining dramatic architecture, lush gardens, indulgent hospitality and easy access to the wilderness of Pilanesberg.

The Palace is designed to make an impression from the moment you arrive. Towering columns, domes, intricate mosaics, richly detailed interiors, cascading water features and bronze wildlife sculptures create an atmosphere that feels theatrical yet deeply connected to Africa. The design draws on the landscapes, wildlife and mythology of the continent, with the surrounding gardens adding to the sense of stepping into another world.

Accommodation ranges from beautifully appointed luxury rooms to spacious suites, with views across the gardens, pools and surrounding landscape. Interiors combine handcrafted furnishings and elegant detailing with modern comforts, while the larger suites offer additional space for travellers seeking a more indulgent stay. Breakfast and Wi-Fi are included, with concierge services, room service and other hotel amenities available to guests.

Dining is an important part of the Palace experience. Guests can choose from several distinctive venues, including The Grill Room for an intimate steakhouse experience, Crystal Court for elegant dining, and Tusk Bar & Lounge for drinks in a more relaxed setting. The Palace Pool Deck offers a casual option beside the pool, while the hotel’s wine collection provides an extensive selection to accompany meals.

There is plenty to do without leaving the resort. Guests can relax beside the Palace’s pools, enjoy treatments at the Royal Spa, play golf on the Gary Player-designed Lost City Golf Course or spend a day at the famous Valley of Waves. The resort also offers a wide range of activities and entertainment, making The Palace particularly appealing for families and travellers who enjoy having plenty of experiences close at hand.

For those drawn to the wild side of South Africa, the Palace’s location provides easy access to Pilanesberg National Park. The park surrounds an ancient volcanic landscape and is home to the Big Five and a diverse range of other wildlife. Guests can head out on guided game drives, explore the bush on specialist experiences or take to the skies on a hot-air balloon safari for a different perspective of the landscape.

The combination of resort and safari makes The Palace particularly versatile. A morning can begin with a game drive in search of elephants, rhino, lion or other wildlife, followed by a leisurely afternoon at the spa or pool. Alternatively, guests can spend the day enjoying Sun City’s many attractions before returning to the Palace for dinner and an evening surrounded by its beautifully illuminated architecture.

The property also offers a sense of escape within the wider Sun City complex. Although guests have access to the resort’s extensive activities, The Palace itself provides a more refined setting, with its landscaped gardens, elegant public spaces and exclusive facilities creating a quieter counterpoint to the energy of Sun City.

Its location also makes it a convenient addition to a wider South African itinerary. The Palace is approximately two hours by road from Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport, making it an accessible stop before or after exploring Johannesburg, the surrounding bushveld or other destinations in the country.

Whether you are looking for a luxurious family escape, a few days of golf and relaxation, or a safari experience combined with resort indulgence, The Palace of the Lost City offers a memorable way to experience South Africa. It is a place where grand African-inspired design, contemporary comfort and the surrounding wilderness come together in one extraordinary setting.