Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
The Victoria Falls Hotel
Edwardian railway landmark
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Renovated
2022
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Heritage Classic DesignOutside the door
Edwardian railway landmark
The hotel still runs like an Edwardian railway outpost, keeping the ceremonial pace of 1904 within earshot of the falls.
“The manicured lawns, leading to that white timber Victorian façade, complete with columns and red trim, are dramatic enough.”
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
Its 161 rooms and suites are still thoroughly Edwardian in style, having been updated with modern technology but thankfully without any update to the aesthetics.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Batoka Gorge borders the grounds, and the falls and town centre are both a short stroll away.
The rooms
Bedrooms keep their Edwardian styling and historic details, updated with discreet modern comforts during recent renovations.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Shaded pergolas border the 1928 Edwardian swimming pool, where a live marimba band plays during barbecue lunches.
The spa
Just off the lobby, therapists perform hot stone massages and facials using natural product formulations.
The gym
Cardio machines and strength equipment sit beside tall multi-pane windows looking out across the hotel grounds.
Restaurant
Stanley's Terrace
Traditional afternoon tea arrives on tiered stands along the verandah, looking out toward the Victoria Falls Bridge.
Restaurant
The Livingstone Room
Under brass chandeliers and arched windows, the formal dining room serves seven-course tasting menus over polished parquet floors.
At the table
Stanley's Bar pours classic cocktails and more than 30 gins beneath wood-paneled walls and vintage murals.
How it began
The hotel began in 1904 as a wood-and-iron shelter for engineers constructing the Victoria Falls railway bridge.
Victoria Falls
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.