The lush green suburb of Glenwood is conveniently located minutes away from Durban’s metropolis and overlooking its harbour. Glenwood has undergone a complete rejuvenation of the suburb’s old Victorian splendour merging seamlessly with new and exciting hotspots.
The suburb affords the holiday maker an opportunity to relax in a quiet neighbourhood, yet located only a brief stroll away from fashionable restaurants, art galleries, trendy boutiques and elegant clubs.
Glenwood is only a short drive way from the numerous attractive beaches along Durban’s shoreline.
Things to do
There is a wealth of interesting things to do in the surrounding areas of Glenwood. Here are a few of the best:
Enjoy a warm swim or some surfing at one of the many Blue Flag beaches stretching along KwaZulu Natal’s entire coastline.
Take a walk to the bright green painted Fresh Paint Gallery in the suburb to view the assortment of fascinating African art forms on display.
Fashionistas from all over the country flock to Durban’s Greyville Racecourse to attend the Durban July, the country’s richest horse race and premier fashion event. Aside from the Durban July, the venue hosts 12 other championship races during the season.
A visit to the Durban Muthi (medicine) market is a must. Gain an understanding of the various potions, consult with an Inyanga (Herbalist) for natural medical treatments, see a Sangoma (Traditional Healer) for insights into your future and don’t leave without buying a pair of sandals fashioned from old car tyres!
The natural heritage site, Pigeon Valley Park, has various small mammals roaming the park and is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Housed in a beautiful Victorian home, the Phansi Museum showcases a large collection of local art, traditional crafts and a stunning display of the ceremonial dress of most South African tribes.
Set aside a full day for your visit to uShaka Marine World and endless family entertainment. This massive theme park has several aquariums, a water park, dolphin shows, shark feeding, seal meet & greets and watersports to name a few exciting offerings. There are two restaurants in the park.
Regarded as an architectural marvel, the complex and brightly coloured Umbilo Shree Ambalavanar Alayam Hindu Temple in Cato Manor is worth a visit. Female guests are required to wear long dresses. Fire-walking rituals take place here every March.
If you’re in the mood for some shopping, visit the Glenwood Village Shopping Centre or the nearby, infinitely larger Davenport Square mall.
Where to Eat
Glenwood’s revival to chic means you don’t have to move out of the area to enjoy an excellent meal. Here are some eateries located in the suburb:
The owners of Yossi's Café showcase their Middle Eastern and North African influence in their flavoursome dishes. Try the meze platters to sample a few of the spicy and aromatic meals on offer. Charming atmosphere, live bands on certain evenings.
Regular patrons will tell you the best designer burgers can be found at Deluxe Burger Bar. Interesting toppings available for your burger to be eaten while seated on a cow skin covered ottoman.
Take a seat on the sidewalk or indoors for live music and to tuck into Corner Café’s freshly prepared meals, ranging from home bakes to delicious pasta dishes, all flavoured with ingredients from their onsite gardens. Tapas served on Friday evenings. Eco friendly restaurant.
The super chilled Pizzetta Restaurant serves wood-fired thin crust pizzas to patrons on their huge verandah or indoors on their couches. Closed Mondays.
The chef at parc. café guarantees only the freshest ingredients and the use of best quality products on all meals served at this social café. For something altogether different, try their broccoli and blue cheese hotcakes. Closed Mondays.
Visit the Arts Café in the KwaZulu Natal Society of Arts Gallery for a light lunch surrounded by magnificent art pieces.
Night Life
Pop down for a game of pool and a lively chat at Vill-Inns Pool Bar and Pub in the Glenwood Village. No need to dress up and know that your car is safely parked at the Mall.
Stunning deck views over the harbour, live bands offering a range of music genres and excellent cuisine is available at Funky's Restaurant and Bar in the BAT Centre.
Café Vacca Matta at Suncoast Casino is an upmarket late night party venue with entertaining bartenders. Dress the part.
Skyybar in Stamford Hill is billed as a cosmopolitan bar for lovers of good music. Open until the early morning hours.
Where to Stay
Ultimate luxury awaits visitors to the magnificent, well-appointed hotels, villas, guest houses and bed & breakfast accommodation facilities in Glenwood.
Transport
Air Glenwood is 36km from Durban’s King Shaka International Airport.
Car Rental Various car rental agencies operate out of Durban and King Shaka Airport or book your vehicle online.
Taxis Traditional taxi companies are available throughout Durban. If you have the Uber app, book a ride using your mobile phone.
Did you know?
A Japanese religious organisation based in Glenwood was once approached by the Durban authorities to cleanse Durban roads of ghostly spirits. The outcome is not known.
Many of Glenwood’s streets are named after important South African individuals who made their mark in history, the only anomaly is the street named Che Guevara Road!
