A recycled Boeing has been converted into a 12-bed Aviator Boutique Hotel in the African bushveld, sporting a cabin arrangement that beats any business class seat.
The brainchild of Martin and Tracy den Dunnen, who had a dream of restoring a retired airliner, and giving it a dignified existence rather than going to an airport graveyard or stripped for scrap metal.
The dream became a reality in March 2019 when the offer to purchase a retired ZS-BIL Boeing, and the conversion process began at the Zandspruit Bush and Aero Estate.
In June 2021, another plane was added to their fleet that will serve as the ‘VIP’ suite after a five-day journey from Or Tambo Airport. Watch the video below to see the Boeing making its way to Zandspruit Bush and Aero Estate.
Thank you Marble Hall! #aerotelhoedspruit #marblehall #limpopo #zandspruitestates #hoedspruit
Posted by Aerotel Hoedspruit Limpopo on Tuesday, June 8, 2021
The new airplane is a Boeing 727, unlike the first one which was a Boeing 737. The first plane was turned into six rooms, but the new one will be turned into a VIP suite, allowing visitors to book the whole plane. The new plane is already equipped with 18 beds inside.
This hotel offers breathtaking views of the northern Drakensberg mountains and bushveld while staying in a revamped aircraft with an outdoor swimming pool and bar, all incorporating an aviation theme.
Six double en-suite cabins, each room is named after a cloud formation, tastefully decorated according to an aviation theme. Before checking in, the Aero Estate houses a ‘departure lounge’ which is also the perfect sundowner spot with the original aeroplane seats.
Outside, there is a mosaic swimming pool with an aviation compass, flanked by a bar as well as flip-down ex-tray tables so digital nomads can work on their laptops.
Those itching to book their place aboard the Hoedspruit Aerotel, can visit them here.
Pictures: Aerotel Hoedspruit Limpopo
Check out some things to do in Hoedspruit.
