Alverstone is out in the country, a small suburb separated from Hillcrest via the Assagay Valley. It is west of Durban in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa. Alverstone lies within the Valley of 1000 Hills, which is an area of rolling green hills and forested valleys extending to the Umgeni River. The river’s source is in the magnificent Drakensberg Mountain range, where it flows out to the north of Durban and into the Indian Ocean.
The suburb has a wildlife park and is a tiny piece of unspoilt wilderness, attracting diverse birdlife. It’s the preserve of an artistic community, where art can be created in peaceful surroundings and with warm weather all year round.
Alverstone has great views of the surrounding valleys and is a scenic, tranquil stopover for any traveller. However, the suburb is only a 25 minute drive from the dazzling city lights and golden beaches of Durban.
Things to do
The Alverstone Wildlife Park is a 100ha reserve generously donated by landowners to re-introduce indigenous game into the area. It provides a safe place for families to enjoy the reserve’s wildlife, forests and wetlands. You can look out for the Fish Eagles.
North of Alverstone is the Isithumba Cultural Village, to experience the Zulu’s tribal customs, traditions and rituals. You can stay for a traditional meal, and while there, consult with a spiritual healer.
Visit the 1000 Hills Arts and Crafts Village nearby to purchase highly unusual crafts on offer. The venue has a chilled restaurant, nursery, health spa and petting zoo.
Get up close to the many reptile species at the Phezulu Crocodile and Snake Park. Feel the weight of the friendly 42kg Burmese python.
You can take the 25 minute drive to Durban to enjoy the day on one of the many beaches in and around the city, or enjoy a Rickshaw ride along the pavilion.
Where to Eat
Lupa in Hillcrest is a chic Italian diner serving traditional meals with new age flair. Lovely set menu for the children.
Q4 Prawns, also in Hillcrest, offers fabulously fresh sushi and seafood. The restaurant becomes very busy during their half-price sushi special on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Hillbilly's Restaurant & Lifestyle Centre offers wholesome, generous dishes on their patio overlooking a scenic valley.
Night Life
Catch a movie at one of the 13 cinemas in the enormous Pavilion Shopping Mall in Westville.
Drive into Durban for a fun night out at the numerous nightclubs, pubs, wine bars and hotels in the city.
Where to Stay
The B&B accommodation on offer in Alverston is 5-star rated by TripAdvisor. You can expect attentive staff, all amenities, privacy and fabulous views during your stay here.
Transport
Air The nearest airport is King Shaka International Airport, 60km from Alverstone.
Car There many car rental agencies in Durban city centre and at King Shaka airport, or you could order a rental online.
Taxi Several shuttle service companies operate out of Durban and the airport to travel to and from Alverstone. Uber also operates in Durban, however, fees are costly and it’s best to hire a car.
Did you know?
The valley of 1000 Hills is known as KwaZulu-Natal’s green corridor thanks to the evergreen plant life and subtropical climate.
Alverstone was probably named after Richard Webster, a British barrister, politician and judge who served in various political and judicial offices. He was granted the title 1st Viscount of Alverstone (in the County of Southampton).
