South Africa’s Oyster Box Hotel is set to host a reception for Prince Albert II of Monaco and his new bride, Charlene Wittstock, as they visit Durban this week.

The luxury property, which is a nominee in the category of “South Africa’s Leading Beach Hotel” at 2011 World Travel Awards, is famous for sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and a presidential suite that lists for 50,000 rand ($7,400) a night.

The couple are in town for a meeting of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), of which Albert is a member.

The hotel, which opened in 1947, has previously hosted Prince William and Prince Harry, Naomi Campbell and Roman Abramovich, among other notables and celebrities.

Located in the resort town of Umhlanga, just north of Durban, the Oyster Box was built in 1869 and originally served as a navigationa beacon before being converted to a hotel.

It underwent a two-year renovation and reopened in 2009 under new owners, the Red Carnation hotel group.

Today the hotel has 86 rooms and suites, including eight garden villas that each have their own plunge pool.

The 450-square-metre presidential suite is a two-level room served by private lift, with a private swimming pool, private study and marble his-and-hers bathrooms.
South African media have reported that the couple are staying in the suite.

The Oyster Box boasts six restaurants overseen by executive chef Kevin Joseph, who trained at Michelin-starred establishments in London.

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