Are you sick and tired of holding onto your hood, cursing, as you battle through the wind and rain towards your car (that, in hindsight, you parked way too far away?). There are so many frustrations that come along with the cold and wet weather – and sometimes we just need a well-deserved break! If you’re looking to avoid the freezing gale-force winds and showers that have characterised our 2012 winter, then look no further! Known as the warmest place in South Africa in winter, Durban offers a subtropical climate and has an average of 320 sunny days a year! So if you want to escape the winter woes in the hopes of a little more sunshine and smiles, then have a look at the following places to go to in Durban:
This incredible African inspired and furnished guesthouse in Durban North is the perfect way to spend a few winter days. With an indoor entertainment area, fully equipped with a pool table and dart board, you are unlikely to be bored while staying here. After dinner, enjoy a tension-relieving drink in the licensed bar which has a thatched covering, wooden furnishings and comfortable bar chairs. Absorb your daily dose of vitamin D on a sun lounger next to the palm-tree-lined pool, and listen to the gentle trickle of the pool-side fountain. The cactus and aloe plants that are scattered around the garden will make you feel as though you are in a natural wilderness. There is a lapa with a long dining table and built-in braai where you can enjoy a leisurely meal as the sun goes down. Beautiful themed bedrooms, comfortable bedding, puffy pillows and air-conditioning will ensure that you have a well-rested stay. Find out more about the Africa Regent Guest House.
2. Roosfontein Bed & Breakfast
Roosfontein Bed & Breakfast, situated in Queensburgh, offers homely accommodation with a warm and friendly atmosphere. Here you can while away the winter days next to a roaring log fire or enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the luscious green gardens. There is no better way to keep warm then by enjoying a bit of healthy exercise. So head up one of the well-marked hiking trails, past rocky riverbeds and indigenous vegetation, and enjoy an undisturbed picnic in nature. There are colourful hammocks in the garden so settle in with a blanket and a good book or have a drink at the indoor bar area, with its intricate wood carvings and unmistakeable charisma. Meals can be enjoyed in the dark-wood dining area that exudes charm, and has a peachy glow. A winding wooden staircase will lead you up to your air-conditioned bedroom, with four poster beds and elaborate African décor. The undercover bambooed braai veranda makes for an excellent entertainment area for the whole family, come storm or shine. Gather your friends and family together and sit around a campfire, telling stories and braaiing marshmallows at the peaceful Roosfontein Bed & Breakfast.
3. Sandringham Bed & Breakfast
Sandringham, a glamorous Bed & Breakfast in Umhlanga Ridge, offers a cosy getaway in style. The palm trees that line the driveway and poolside lend an exotic feel to your stay. Choose to laze about on the upstairs or downstairs balcony, enjoy a meal in the spacious dining room, or start up a cosy fire on the sheltered patio. On cold rainy days, escape into the large viewing lounge, equipped with a home theatre system and large screen, to kick back with your favourite DVDs. Beautiful, warm rooms, with plush carpets and stylish headboards, provide a luxurious atmosphere and ensure that you will have a peaceful sleep throughout your stay. If couples with children are looking for a night out, babysitting can be arranged at an extra cost. Find out more about Sandringham Bed & Breakfast.
4. 29 on St James Colonial Guest Lodge
In the heart of Westville Central, you will find 29 on St James, a charming Guest House that boasts a glistening swimming pool, an art gallery, and a restaurant. Play a relaxing game of cards in the Cards Room or pick out a fine read in the well-stocked library. There is a homely television and sitting area, and a Rhodesian Teak floored ‘Adult Room’ equipped with a grand fire place. Each spacious room has cosy bedding and its own private patio. A braai area is available at the Lodge’s licensed pub, the ‘Outspan Tree’. The lodge is fully air-conditioned which means you can turn up the heat if you’re feeling a little chilly. If you’re out and about, complimentary English Cream teas are served at noon, so enjoy a delicious mid-day snack. If you want to investigate the indigenous surroundings or spend a leisurely day in the garden, picnic baskets can be arranged. Find out more about 29 on St James.
5. Manaar House
Within picturesque Umhlanga Rocks, lies Manaar House, a comfortable and luxurious home-away-from-home. The interior is busily and beautifully decorated with ornate African furnishings, and welcomes you with its comfortable charm. Alongside the sparkling blue pool, you can sink into the soft sofa and escape from the buzzing city-life. The patio, with blinds to block off the wind and rain, provides a warm place to sit back and relax. A delightful wooden courtyard cradles a large bubbling Jacuzzi, where you can unwind surrounded by potted plants and a rock garden on cool winter nights. The lounge and sitting rooms are furnished in light and bright colours, with rich and colourful curtains. An indoor bar area is available and the long wooden dining table accommodates guests for their evening meals. A wooden staircase winds up to the spacious air-conditioned rooms with King sized beds and slanted white ceilings. Private patios, with wooden deck furniture, are the perfect spot to sit back and admire the ocean view. Books and board games are available to keep you entertained in even in the coldest and wettest of weather. For parents who would like to enjoy some time alone, babysitting can be arranged. Find out more about Manaar House.
Let us know your favourite spot to escape the winter chill in Durban.
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