Words: Riekie Human | Images: Supplied, Shutterstock & Stephen Pilbrough
When it comes to sun, sand and fun, Salt Rock, Shaka’s Rock and Zimbali Coastal Resort and Estate have got you covered.
King Shaka Heritage Route
KwaZulu-Natal’s most popular heritage route is a celebration of one the most famous Zulu chiefs. High Rock, which is located on the shoreline in the Shaka’s Rock area (just off Rock Lane, along the footpath to the sea), is well worth a visit as this is where this great leader used to plot his military ploys. According to legend, this was also where many of his enemies and opponents were executed – and where his warriors had to prove their mettle by jumping off the rocks and into the sea.
The Harold Johnson Nature Reserve
This pristine and lush enclave of greenery near Salt Rock is a veritable feast of fauna and flora and it might be small (spanning only 100 hectares), but it’s a sanctuary for a whole host of species, ranging from zebras, bushbuck, impalas, blue, red and grey duikers, vervet monkeys, slender mongooses, white-tailed mongooses, banded mongooses to porcupines. Whether you’re an amateur naturalist or a right royal biology boffin, this reserve has plenty to keep you captivated, and bird lovers will also be delighted to hear that it is home to some 200 species of feathered friends, while 114 butterfly species also flutter about.
Canelands Beach Club & Spa
Where better to relax and unwind than the Canelands Beach Club & Spa where 180-degree ocean views, the water lapping at your feet, peace and quiet, relaxing treatments and treats like micro-light flights are par for the course. The fabulous food and sublime cocktails on offer here will make you come back for more.
thecanelands.co.za
Fairmont Zimbali Resort
Set inside the Zimbali Coastal Estate, this resort is all about peace and quiet, stylish comfort and superior service. Various accommodation options are on offer, including the ultra-luxe penthouse and presidential suite, as well as 18 Fairmont Heritage Place villas. The conference facilities include two boardrooms, a spacious ballroom and a courtyard, and are perfect for corporate and social functions alike. The cherry on top? The Willow Stream Spa, where the relaxing treatments are guaranteed to ease any stresses and anxiety away.
fairmont.com/zimbali-resort
Beach fun
Various beaches in the area are drawcards for locals and visitors alike, including the main Shaka’s Rock Beach, aka Catfish Beach, which is 40km north of Durban and right next to Ballito. This is also where ski-boats launch and bigger vessels set out on deep-sea fishing excursions.
