Athlone Park, Durban

Just 7.5 kilometres from Durban, along the south coast road, Athlone Park is one of the more upmarket northern suburbs of Amanzimtoti, close to Durban’s International Airport, and just before the start of the Hibiscus Coast - a firm favourite with outdoor lovers.

It was with the opening of a railway in Amanzimtoti and the arrival of a station master as way back as 1902, that Amanzimtoti first became firmly entrenched in the minds of South Africans as a holiday resort, and many a holiday maker headed to the over 7 kilometres of beach that is now home to, not only South Africans, but visitors from all over the world.

That life slows down in Athlone Park is obvious. The effect of the sea and holiday atmosphere that seems to imbue Amanzimtoti with a continual feeling of bonhomie means that one has little choice but to ‘do as the Romans do’ and follow suit. This is a place of white, sandy beaches, swimming in warm safe waters, renowned fishing, water sports and diving opportunities that are very seldom surpassed.

There are also some of the most beautiful nature reserves, including the Bird Sanctuary and the Umbogovango Nature Reserve just north of Amanzimtoti. Ilanda Wilds offers self-guided trails and a preserved riverbank area as well as picnic spots - a great day’s outing.