In the world of wanderlust and adventure, the venerable Club Med, the veritable trailblazer of the all-inclusive paradigm, recently unveiled an exciting trove of updates. These developments are poised to rewrite the rules of luxury escapades, promising to be nothing short of spectacular. (Pictured below: Club Med features the only all-inclusive ski resorts.)
The hospitality landscape in South Africa is about to be redefined with the 2026 opening of Club Med Tinley, a first-of-its-kind beach and safari resort and the brand's first-ever location in South Africa. Situated in KwaZulu-Natal, a province renowned for its diverse natural beauty and year-round warm weather, Club Med Tinley will feature a surf-lifestyle concept, as well as the opportunity to stay on a Big Five Game Reserve and embark on a magical safari. The beach resort will be nestled on the North Coast, fondly known as the "Dolphin Coast," and offer panoramic views of the beach and coastal dunes. The resort interiors, entertainment and gastronomy will carry the flair of the African continent, drawing inspiration from the location, climate, and cultures of Southern Africa. Three hours away in Northern Natal, guests will enjoy the same all-inclusive experience at the 80-room game lodge, with access to the wonders of the animal kingdom through a complete safari adventure.
The 4-Trident (4-star) resort will include an Exclusive Collection space, providing a 5-Star oasis of tranquility and indulgence to complement the pristine natural environment, along with a spa, fitness center, yoga school and an adults-only Zen pool and bar. For those looking to play on their vacation, Club Med Tinley will offer an array of land and water sports for couples, friends and families, including the very first Surf School at Club Med. In keeping with brand's dedication to corporate social responsibility, the resort will embrace environmental stewardship through its Bye Bye Plastic Program, Green Globe sustainable tourism certification, and eco-certified construction.
"Club Med Tinley is the manifestation of the brand's pioneering spirit," says Carolyne Doyon, President and CEO of Club Med North America and the Caribbean. "Developing the first Club Med resort in South Africa with a unique beach and safari concept affirms our commitment to creating meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime vacations that allow our guests to truly connect with nature and each other. We are thrilled to introduce a new generation of visitors to this jewel of South Africa."
Club Med Gramado: Club Med has announced the development of Club Med Gramado, the brand's first Exclusive Collection (five-star) resort in South America and the fourth resort in Brazil. The resort will open in 2025 in Rio Grande do Sul, one of the most attractive regions in the country, known for its dramatic canyons, gastronomy, wine, and lively local culture. The climate is warm in the summer and snowy in the winter, offering picturesque backdrops for weddings and events. Gramado is the third most visited destination in South America, with a new national airport set to open nearby to accommodate the growing demand. The new resort will expand the international reach of this already beloved destination and reinforce the brand's commitment to providing unforgettable vacations in unique places for locals and tourists alike.
Club Med Borneo: Nestled between the woods and the waves in the enchanting landscape of Kota Kinabalu, Club Med Borneo, opening in 2025, will offer a pristine paradise where jungle meets idyllic white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Embracing Club Med's commitment to eco-friendliness, the resort's design blends harmoniously with its lush surroundings, drawing inspiration from the woods and sea. Every element has been thoughtfully crafted to ensure minimal ecological impact while providing utmost comfort and luxury throughout the 4-Trident property and Exclusive Collection space. Club Med Borneo will be both BREEAM and Green Globe certified, furthering the brand's commitment to low density, sustainable development.
Club Med Urban Oasis Xianlin Nanjing: Located in the urban region of Nanjing China, Club Med opened the world's first urban oasis resort, Club Med Urban Oasis Xianlin Nanjing, on Oct. 18. The resort combines the brand's renowned premium, all-inclusive product with the cultural richness of the city for a more exclusive and personalized vacation experience. The resort is located next to the nearby railway station, making it the world's first metro-access Club Med resort, and among Nanjing's four major scenic areas—Purple Mountain, Quixia Mountain, Tangshan Mountain and Yanziji—with breathtaking natural surroundings and nearby activities. The resort features an indoor heated water park, outdoor water screen light show, outdoor explorer park and sport activities to accommodate every type of traveler.
Club Med Marrakech La Palmeraie: Club Med Marrakech La Palmeraie, situated in the heart of Morocco, will be undergoing renovations to renew and transform itself to provide a premium, all-inclusive experience for guests. Coming December 2023, the resort will welcome the creation of Baby Club to its Children's Club. The new indoor and outdoor area will accommodate babies starting at four months to 23 months in a nurturing environment with activities and dedicated play areas. To further the family-friendly programming, the resort will create an extension of La Palmeraie with a family oasis, named The Ksar. The family oasis will offer 66 two-bedroom accommodations with a family swimming pool and a dedicated bar. Designed by Laurent Maugoust, the new Superior and Deluxe rooms will combine hues of blue inspired by the Moroccan culture and greens reminiscent of the gardens of Palmeraie. The Superior and Deluxe rooms will be refreshed with new hardware, finishings and more in the bedrooms and bathrooms by the end of 2023.