KwaZulu-Natal's newest luxury boutique hotel, Ballito Manor, has opened to the public.

Expected to attract a fair amount of neighbourhood curiosity, the magnificent mansion was formerly the 12-bedroom holiday home of rugby supremo Louis Luyt.

Structural alterations were not necessary to convert the property which has spectacular gardens and direct access to Ballito's main beach into a hotel.

Sheltered coves dotted with tidal pools, a wealth of fishing spots, diving and deep-sea fishing are all within walking distance of the hotel.

Ballito Manor also boasts a restaurant, run by Adam Seviour, who has worked at The Ritz in London and The Shelbourne in Dublin.

It boasts a health centre, squash court and halfsize Olympic pool, and seven golf courses are easily accessible from it. It also has conference facilities for up to 24 guests.

Business Day