Mount Moreland, Umhlanga Coast
Just 30 kilometres north of Durban, the capital city of KwaZulu-Natal and a bustling urban epicentre, is the little community of Mount Moreland. However, while small and nestled away in a conservation area, this part of the world is known for the three million European barn swallows that roost here every year between spring (beginning in September) and summer (ending around February).
The lush landscapes, ample wetlands and balmy conditions are ideal for the swallows, whose arrival is celebrated at the annual Return of the Swallows Festival. Of course, these conditions are also perfect for many other bird, plant and land-based animal varieties, and this is recognised as being a veritable green lung for this part of Africa. It is also close to Umdloti Beach, which is a little resort town that, while quiet almost all year round, comes alive with tourists in the summer holidays and around Easter.
Mount Moreland was initially established in the 1950’s as a township, or informal settlement. Today, most plots are still under private ownership, some with homes on them and some vacant. However, a recent initiative to rezone Mount Moreland means that there is a renewed focus on development within the realm of eco-friendly standards. This is exciting for local residents as well as visitors, both of whom will benefit. Locals get to enjoy the financial advantages of development and the tourism industry, while visitors are privy to being part of the celebration of the splendour of South Africa.
Mount Moreland is also conveniently situated. In addition to being just 30 minutes’ drive from Durban, it is less than three kilometres from the new King Shaka International Airport, from which many begin their South African experience. This is another important reason for its rezoning and development, as it is conveniently placed to welcome and accommodate visitors from all over the world. Still, the primary focus will be on the natural wealth and value of the area of Mount Moreland and its surrounds.
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options
Addis Bed and Breakfast
Situated in a serene suburb, noted for its beauty as well as peaceful setting, Addis Bed & Breakfast has chosen Umhlanga Rocks as the perfect hol...
Grand Apartment 8
Grand Apartment 8 is an air conditioned apartment offering Durban self catering in the popular area of Umhlanga Ridge. The apartment is approxima...
Oyster Schelles 703
Oyster Schelles 703 is an apartment in the heart of the Umhlanga beachfront area with views of the sea. The apartment accommodates six guests in ...
Breakers Resort Apartment 229
Breakers Resort Apartment 229 at the Breakers Resort offers quality holiday accommodation as well as a wide range of entertainment to keep both c...
Sorgente 305
Sorgente 305 is a modern and bright three bedroom apartment offering holiday accommodation in Umdloti. The apartment sleeps a maximum of six gues...
Forest Manor Guesthouse
Located in Umhlanga Rocks, Forest Manor Guesthouse is just minutes from La Lucia Mall, the surrounding office parks and Gateway Theatre of Shoppi...
La Loggia on Portland
Near the heart of Umhlanga village, this B&B accommodation offers the comforts of a home in a sophisticated manner. The contemporary feel of La L...
Afri-Lala Bed & Breakfast
Located in the tranquil environment of the Mount Edgecome Country Club, Afri-Lala offers guests a home from home lifestyle. The Gateway Theatre o...
Flamingo Lodge
Flamingo Lodge is situated in the heart of Umhlanga Rocks and is closest of all the Guest Lodges (200 Meters) to the main "Blue Flag" bathing bea...
Things to do in the area
Witness the Mount Moreland Swallows
Witness the spectacle of the Mount Moreland Swallows: Enjoy an evening picnic or a few sundowners at the Lake Victoria Conservancy in Mount Morel...
Noteworthy attractions
MECC Course One
Mount Edgecombe Country Club consists of two championship courses - Mount Edgecombe One and Mount Edgecombe Two. Both these courses have their ow...
MECC Course Two
Mount Edgecombe Country Club consists of two championship courses - Mount Edgecombe One and Mount Edgecombe Two. Both these courses have their ow...
Gateway Theatre of Shopping
Gateway Theatre of Shopping is one of Africa's largest super regional retail destinations. Features: Barnyard Theatre, Ster Kinekor cinema, Cinem...
Natal Sharks Board
The only organisation of its kind in the world, the Natal Sharks Board protects beach users in KwaZulu Natal against shark attack with an extensi...
Hawaan Forest
Protected since 1860 the primeval forest lies next to the Umhlanga Nature Reserve (only the M4 runs between them) just off Portland Drive on the ...
Umhlanga Ponds
The Umlanga 'ponds' themselves are referred to in inverted commas because they're actually a wastewater treatment works, but don't let this knowl...
Mount Moreland Conservancy
Part of the focus of the Mount Moreland Conservancy is to preserve and improve the condition of the Mdloti River and the state of its surrounding...
Umdloti Beach Coastal Conservancy
The Umdloti Coastal Conservancy is made up of three separate beaches. These are 1) Selection, 2) Newsel and 3) Umdloti. Umdloti Beach is popular ...
Ohlange Institute
On April 27, 1994, Nelson Mandela, as the president of the ANC (African National Congress), chose to cast his vote at Ohlange Institute, a school...
Find accommodation in Mount Moreland
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / KwaZulu Natal Accommodation / Durban Accommodation / Umhlanga Coast Accommodation / Mount Moreland Accommodation