The tiny upmarket suburb of Glen Ashley is on the north coast of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. This region consists of vast sweeps of golden beach running along the entire length of coastline, occasionally interrupted by rock pools, with abundant sea life. Huge schools of dolphins are a common sight and in October, migrating whales travel along the coast.
Glen Ashley is conveniently located between the enormously popular Umhlanga holiday resort, a 7 minute drive, and South Africa’s largest port city, Durban, 15 minutes away.
Glen Ashley is a subtropical region. The mostly sunny weather averages 21° Celsius annually and sea temperatures range between 20° in winter and 25° Celsius in the summertime. This is an all year round holiday destination!
Things to do
Enjoy a relaxing day on Glen Ashley’s peaceful beach or walk over to the pristine stretch of undeveloped Virginia Beach alongside. If you are into surfing, Glen Ashley is regarded as big wave paradise.
Ride the SkyCar above the Moses Mabhida Stadium to reach the viewing platform over 100m above the stadium and exceptional views of the ocean and Durban city. The ride down is propelled by gravity alone.
The Gateway Theatre of Shopping is more a mega-entertainment complex than shopping mall. Facilities include the WaveHouse – a huge indoor waterpark, 18 movie theatres, the Rock – an 8-storey climbing wall, a skate park designed by Tony Hawk and the fascinating MTN Science Centre.
Try your luck at the Sibaya Casino and Entertainment World while the children enjoy the plentiful games at The Magic Company on the premises.
Take a walk along the beach southwards to the enchanting Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve with its three, rare varieties of mangrove and masses of birdlife. Wear shoes to avoid a bite from the lurking fiddler crabs!
Where to Eat
Mamma Luciana's at the Glenore Centre is a typical Italian restaurant serving authentic dishes. The Sunday buffet is hugely popular and booking is essential.
The busy Lookout on Newport Restaurant in the suburb offers a variety of tasty dishes. Lovely view, attentive staff. Flatties (full chicken cut open and flattened, seasoned then grilled) are recommended.
Royal Palm Hotel’s Dish Restaurant in Umhlanga is a sophisticated venue offering an excellent selection of dishes and wines.
Mention The Grill Room at the Oyster Box Hotel to a local and you’ll get a knowing smile in return. Dining at this popular restaurant is a fabulous experience with well-trained staff to assist in ensuring a memorable meal.
Looking for a light breakfast or a fresh bake? Pop in to Ferrucci Classical Bakery where everyone raves about their Eggs Benedict dish.
Night Life
Cuba Lounge in Umhlanga is a lively cigar bar with Latino music pumping to get your feet tapping while sipping on a cocktail. Dress up for Havana nights.
Spend a relaxing evening making new friends at the ‘local’, Connor’s Public House.
Where to Stay
Beautifully appointed Guest Houses and Cottages, all with swimming pools and every amenity possible are the accommodation offerings awaiting your visit to Glen Ashley.
Transport
Air The nearest airport is King Shaka International Airport, a mere 20km from Glen Ashley.
Car There many rental agencies in Durban city centre and at King Shaka airport to hire a vehicle or you could order a rental online.
Taxi Rikki Cabs operates out of King Shaka airport otherwise if you have the Uber app, order a ride via your mobile phone.
Did you know?
The Virginia Airport adjoining Glen Ashley hosted an annual civilian airshow for over 50 years before being cancelled recently, now used as a testing ground for newly qualified pilots. The beach here remains undeveloped.
Young David van Zyl of Glen Ashley is one of South Africa’s top surfers and was ranked 5th in the local ratings last year.
