Our story
Pioneering beginnings
In 1914, The story of Ryalls Hotel began with Louisa Ryall, the wife of a builder and contractor who worked for the Nyasaland Volunteer Reserve, who embarked on a visionary journey founding Limbe Hotel in early Nyasaland (modern-day Malawi). This marked the beginning of a remarkable legacy in Malawi’s hospitality industry.
Five years later, in 1919, while managing the Limbe Hotel, Louisa responded to an advertisement in the Nyasaland Times which requested the need for hotel accommodation in Blantyre. Seizing this opportunity, she repurposed a historical building—once a World War I concentration camp—into Blantyre's first hotel, later known as Nash's Hotel. Laying the foundation for what would become one of the most enduring hospitality establishments in the country.
Ryalls blantyre hotel: A new chapter
Following her first husband’s passing, Louisa married John Stratton, the manager of her Limbe Hotel. Together, they embarked on creating a new chapter and in 1921, the couple founded Ryalls Blantyre Hotel. This grand establishment quickly became renowned for its elegant setting and exceptional service.
Dedication to service and transformation
Ryalls Blantyre Hotel flourished in the decades that followed, alongside Malawi’s evolving landscape, marking significant milestones along the way. The hotel remained resilient through times of change, including Malawi’s independence in 1964, maintaining its status as a symbol of tradition and excellence.
Milestones:
1997: Listed on the Malawi Stock Exchange as Blantyre Hotels Plc
1998: Partnered with Protea Hotels, Africa's largest hotel management company
2014: Joined the Marriott International family following their acquisition of Protea Hotels
A timeless legacy
Today, Protea Hotel by Marriott Ryalls stands as Malawi's longest-established hotel. It continues to seamlessly blend over a century of rich heritage, offering world-class service with modern luxury in the heart of Blantyre.