Setting new standards in luxury weddings and accommodation First Group, the forward-thinking hotel and resort management company, is ushering in a new era of lavish, six-star hospitality with the opening of Swallow Cliff Hall, a luxurious wedding venue with a seven-suite villa situated in South Africa’s majestic Drakensberg. An exclusive haven that boasts incredible views over the Ngwangwane River, this contemporary property exudes sophistication and has been designed to offer a truly indulgent experience for its guests. “Elegant, intimate and the picture-perfect backdrop to unsurpassed celebrations of opulence, Swallow Cliff Hall is destined to become South Africa’s leading wedding destination for 2021 and beyond,” says Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group.
“This unique property is not only an expression of our brand’s philosophy to create lasting and magical memories for everyone, it also marks a key milestone for First Group and our expansion into exclusive, tailormade properties.” Since its inception in 1990, First Group has been committed to delivering world-class holiday destinations that offer unique experiences for every income bracket. The company now has over 25 properties in Southern Africa that include well-known hotels and resorts such as Selborne Golf Estate, Hotel & Spa, La Montagne, Bushman’s Nek and Magalies Park. Swallow Cliff Hall is First Group’s first destination to cater for exclusive, celebrity-style weddings. “Swallow Cliff Hall is a newly-built property that has been designed to cater for the truly discerning guest,” Shaun explains. He adds that the property’s unobstructed 360-degree views of its stunning surroundings, unrivalled extravagance and flawless service make it the ultimate destination for the most spectacular and romantic weddings imaginable.
“The site for Swallow Cliff Hall was specifically chosen so that it could offer an unforgettable wedding option where couples can exchange their vows surrounded by unmatched beauty.” The private setting gives the couple and their wedding entourage a luxurious sense of exclusivity. The perfect venue for wedding parties with an array of hosting options from 30 to 150 guests, Swallow Cliff Hall boasts a celebrity style reception hall spilling out to extended wrap-around entertainment decks and lawn complete with a rim-flow pool and breathtaking views of the Southern Drakensberg mountains.
The property even boasts an on-site spa where the newlywed couple can enjoy soothing treatments under the open Drakensberg sky, including Spa Bath and Sauna. Swallow Cliff Hall speaks to opulence and sophistication with sensuous interior spaces and elaborate outdoor areas. The villa’s lavish and well-appointed en-suite bedrooms – that sleep up to 14 people – are complemented by a gracious dining room, a magnificent fully equipped “chef’s” kitchen for either home-cooked or catered meals, a traditional wood-fired pizza oven, a mountain facing bar with a cosy lounge and fireplace, a Roman arch wine cellar with imported Turkish chandeliers, business studio and wrap-around decks. All of this is set-off by a team of attentive staff who deliver impeccable service.
With its blend of refined style, luxury amenities and personalised service, Swallow Cliff Hall is certain to not only become the ultimate wedding destination but the definitive choice for every occasion. From group or family getaways, spa retreats, celebrity-style functions, fishing retreats, or groups of executives seeking a private escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, no stone has been left unturned to ensure that the prestigious property offers personalised, professional and unforgettable eventing solutions.
“Every facility at Swallow Cliff Hall has been planned to create a world of opulence and pure extravagance for our guests. From the exquisite rooms to the mouth-watering dining options to indulgent onsite wellness, all aspects of the villa offer our guests unparalleled luxury with individualised service that is warm and heartfelt,” says Shaun. “Opening on 1 September, Swallow Cliff Hall is a great addition to the First Group portfolio, and I am certain that it will quickly become a destination of choice for discerning South Africans who value their privacy and space,” he concludes.
