Thrifty weekend escapes just outside Durban

If you’re on a tight budget but still crave the excitement of a weekend adventure, I’ve got some fantastic news for you. There are a plethora of affordable getaways tucked away right on Durban’s doorstep. Don’t worry about breaking the bank – I’ve got you covered with some terrific, cost-effective options. Let’s dive in!

Fabulous coastal retreats

Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore, sand between your toes, and the fresh sea breeze rejuvenating your soul. If this sounds like your ideal weekend escape, then you’ll be thrilled to discover the coastal gems that lie just outside Durban.

Umhlanga Rocks is a popular destination known for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Just a short drive away from the city, this seaside town offers an array of affordable accommodation options, ranging from cozy guesthouses to self-catering apartments. Spend your days lounging on the beach, exploring the local shops and restaurants, or taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade. With its picture-perfect scenery and relaxed vibe, Umhlanga Rocks is the perfect choice for a budget-friendly coastal getaway.

If you’re seeking an even more tranquil retreat, Ballito is an idyllic coastal town situated just a stone’s throw away from Durban. This hidden gem boasts pristine beaches, lush greenery, and a peaceful ambiance that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. With its range of budget-friendly accommodation options and an abundance of outdoor activities like snorkeling, dolphin watching, and hiking, Ballito is an excellent choice for a wallet-friendly weekend escape.

Adventures in the Drakensberg

If you’re yearning for a nature-filled weekend getaway, the majestic Drakensberg Mountains are waiting to be explored. Offering a scenic backdrop of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and sprawling valleys, this breathtaking destination is perfect for budget-conscious adventurers.

The town of Underberg, nestled at the foothills of the Drakensberg, provides an incredible base for exploring the wonders of this mountain range. From hiking and horseback riding to fishing and bird watching, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to indulge in. And with a variety of affordable accommodations such as cozy guest lodges and quaint cottages, you can enjoy all that the Drakensberg has to offer without breaking the bank.

Discover the Midlands Meander

If you prefer a more leisurely pace and a touch of country charm, the Midlands Meander is the ideal spot for a wallet-friendly weekend escape. Just a short drive from Durban, this picturesque region is known for its rolling hills, quaint farm stalls, and delightful craft shops.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the countryside as you explore the charming towns of Howick, Nottingham Road, and Mooi River. Indulge in delicious farm-to-table cuisine, visit artisanal breweries and cheese farms, and browse the unique arts and crafts on offer. With its affordable guesthouses and cozy bed and breakfasts, the Midlands Meander is the perfect destination for a cost-effective weekend of relaxation and exploration.

Escape the city without emptying your wallet

Whether you’re seeking a coastal retreat, a mountain adventure, or a countryside escape, the options for affordable weekend getaways near Durban are endless. These hidden gems offer budget-conscious travelers a chance to unwind, explore, and create lasting memories without breaking the bank. So why wait? Start planning your thrifty weekend escape today and embark on an unforgettable adventure just outside Durban’s bustling city limits.

KwaZulu-Natal is an incredible place with so much to offer. If you’re thinking of going on a trip, I’ve got some great suggestions for affordable weekend getaways near Durban.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful farm retreat or a relaxing beachside location, there’s something for everyone, no matter your budget. Let me share with you some of my personal favorites.

1. Bushbaby Lodge and Camping, Hluhluwe

Price: You can stay here for just R520 per night for two guests.
Travel time from Durban: It’s just a 2 hour and 40 minute drive from Durban.

Just 20 minutes away from the Hluhluwe Umfolozi Game Reserve, you’ll find Bushbaby Lodge. It’s a wonderful place to stay with a variety of accommodation options set on a beautiful tropical property. You’ll spot bright orange chalets nestled under the shade of large indigenous trees. There are seven chalets with private bathrooms, and another seven that share ablution facilities. You can choose to have delicious home-cooked meals prepared for you on-site, or you can cook your own meals in the fully equipped communal kitchen area. The lodge also offers 20 campsites with electricity and water hookups. And don’t worry about missing out on the rugby match – there is a communal lounge area with DStv, and a swimming pool where you can cool off after the game.

2. Rocky Bay Resorts, Scottburgh

Price: Starting from R477 per person sharing
Travel time from Durban: Only 40 minutes away

Right on the seaside, Rocky Bay Resorts has got you covered with cozy log cabins and plenty of camping spots. The cabins can accommodate up to 8 guests and come with private decks, off-street parking, braai areas, fully equipped kitchens, and TVs with DStv. And after a fun-filled day at the beach, you can rinse off in your own private outdoor shower, keeping the sand outside where it belongs. If you’re not a fan of sand, you can always take a refreshing dip in the resort’s freshwater pool. And for the caravanners out there, you’ll love the convenience of being just steps away from the beach.

Now let’s move on to Bellevue Lodge in Ramsgate South. It’s a beautiful spot that won’t break the bank, with prices starting at just R400 per person, per night. And the best part? It’s only about an hour and 20 minutes away from Durban. So you don’t have to go far to enjoy a peaceful getaway.

Bellevue Lodge is a place where you can stay and take care of yourself. The property is surrounded by beautiful forests and gardens, which cover a whopping 11 hectares. As a bonus, you get free access to Bellevue Park, a special garden that’s full of native plants. This park even has playgrounds to keep the kids entertained while you relax and enjoy the surroundings. You might see some interesting birds, as well as animals like blue duikers, bushbucks, and genets. If you want to explore beyond the lodge, there are many great options nearby. Pristine Blue Flag beaches, horse riding trails, a crocodile farm, and nature reserves are just a short drive away. But don’t worry, if you prefer to stay in, there’s a pool for you to take a refreshing swim and a game area where you can compete with your friends and family.

Now let’s talk about the next lodge on our list: Le Paradis Lodge in Widenham. It’s a reasonably priced option, starting at only R375 per person, per night. And the best part is, it’s just a 40-minute drive from Durban.

Looking for the perfect spot to spend a weekend by the ocean? Look no further than Le Paradis Lodge. Situated just 200m from the beach, you’ll have breathtaking 180-degree views of the sparkling waters. With nine self-catering units available, you can enjoy the convenience of garden access and wake up to a delicious breakfast in the dining room if you choose. Of course, the real draw here is the water. Widenham Beach is a fantastic place to swim, surf, and even snorkel if the conditions are right. However, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, the lodge can also arrange exciting marine activities like deep-sea fishing and scuba diving at the Aliwal Shoal reef.

Don’t worry if saltwater isn’t your thing. Le Paradis Lodge has got you covered. They have swimming pools where you can cool off and relax. If you’re in the mood for some friendly competition, why not challenge your friends or family to a game of table tennis? There’s never a dull moment at this incredible spot.

5. Korongo Valley Guest Farm, Ixopo

Price: Starting from R1 500 per night for three people
Travel time from Durban: 1 hour and 35 minutes

Welcome to Korongo Valley Guest Farm! Located just outside the charming town of Ixopo, on the way to the breathtaking Wild Coast and a mere 143km from Durban. Here, you’ll be treated to magnificent views and the invigorating country air that’s perfect for unwinding and finding peace.

Our accommodation options are designed with your comfort in mind. We offer cozy self-catering cottages and charming log cabins, complete with fresh linen and towels. You’ll feel right at home with amenities such as a TV with M-Net, heaters for those chillier days, and complimentary tea and coffee-making facilities.

If you’re a bird-watcher, walker, or cyclist, you’re in for a treat. Korongo Valley is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, boasting an impressive array of over 120 bird species. Keep an eye out for the rare and endangered blue swallow. Plus, there’s plenty of relaxation to be had by the poolside or a visit to our beloved farm animals. The kids will love meeting the rabbits, goats, ducks, geese, and even ‘Mr. Pig’!

For a memorable dining experience, head to The Crane and Assagai Country Pub. Whether you’re in the mood for a delightful pub lunch or looking for some fun activities in Durban, this is the place to be. Enjoy your meal on our deck, where you’ll be treated to scenic views of our gardens. And if you’re up for a challenge, join our daily pub quiz for some brain-teasing entertainment.

So why wait? Pack your bags and come experience the tranquility and beauty of Korongo Valley Guest Farm. We can’t wait to welcome you!

6. Figtree Lane Lodge, Richards Bay

Price: You can stay in a cozy cottage at Figtree Lane Lodge for just R1140 per night.
Travel time from Durban: It takes only 1 hour and 50 minutes to travel to Richards Bay from Durban.

The Figtree Lane Lodge is a 171-kilometer drive away from Durban, a bustling town in Richards Bay that is conveniently situated between Durban and KwaZulu-Natal’s game reserves. It’s a perfect location, especially since Richards Bay has one of the largest harbors in South Africa. This executive guest house offers a premium experience and is located close to the main beach. You’ll find it nestled among other esteemed hotels, top-notch restaurants, and trendy shops.

When you stay at Figtree Lane Lodge, you can choose between cozy cottages that can accommodate two to six people or opt for comfortable rooms. Each room has an en suite bathroom, and the cottages even have balconies and private entrances, providing you with privacy and a lovely view.

Richards Bay is known for its fantastic water sports facilities, making it a paradise for anyone who loves yachting, dinghy racing, boating, or any water-based activities like canoeing, jet-skiing, and kite-surfing. The best part is that all these thrilling activities are conveniently located within a three-kilometer radius of the lodge.

If you’re a fan of swimming, the lodge is within walking distance of the main swimming beach called Alkantstrand. This beach offers more than just swimming. It also has a lookout point where you can enjoy a breathtaking 270-degree view of the ocean and the harbor. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss!

So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable stay in Richards Bay, Figtree Lane Lodge is the perfect choice. With its prime location, luxurious accommodations, and easy access to thrilling water sports and beautiful beaches, it promises to make your trip truly remarkable. Come and experience the magic for yourself!

7. Midlands Inverness Cottages, Balgowan:

Price: You can stay at Midlands Inverness Cottages in Balgowan for as low as R600 per person when sharing a room with someone else. This makes it an affordable option for a getaway.

Travel time from Durban: If you’re traveling from Durban, it will only take you approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach Midlands Inverness Cottages in Balgowan. The close proximity of this destination is perfect if you’re looking for a quick escape from the city.

Welcome to Midlands Inverness Cottages! We are located right in the heart of the popular Midlands Meander route. Our cottages offer a luxurious and comfortable stay, with easy access to the finest restaurants, schools, spas, galleries, and wedding venues in the country. Plus, we’re only 122km away from Durban!

Each of our three self-catering cottages is beautifully appointed and comes with its own private garden, entrance, and parking. You’ll find queen-size or king-size beds in all the cottages, and if you need additional sleeping space for your children, we can open up extra mattresses or sleeper couches upon request.

We want to make sure your stay with us is as enjoyable as possible, so all of our cottages have access to braai facilities, and we provide firewood for you. You can also take a stroll in the fields and meet our resident horses, say hello to the calves, or get to know our special free-range pigs and chickens. And don’t forget to explore the beautiful Howick Falls and the Marutswa Forest nearby.

So why wait? Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Midlands Inverness Cottages today. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Now, let’s move on and discover the Coco De Mer Boutique Hotel in Ballito…

Price: You can enjoy this experience at a cost of R1 650 per person when sharing.
Travel time from Durban: It only takes about 40 minutes to reach your destination.

Hey there! Let me tell you about an amazing opportunity that you won’t want to miss. It’s an experience that will leave you breathless and wanting more. With landscapes that will make your heart skip a beat and adventures that will leave you feeling alive, this is something that you definitely want to add to your bucket list.

When you think about the price, don’t worry! It’s affordable and totally worth it. For just R1 650 per person when sharing, you can embark on this incredible journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Now, let’s talk convenience. If you’re located in Durban, you’ll be thrilled to know that in just 40 minutes, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find yourself surrounded by the beauty of nature. It’s amazing how close this hidden gem is to the city!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your friends, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure like no other. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Welcome to Coco de Mer Boutique Hotel! Located just 50km from Durban, our hotel stands tall on Ballito’s Compensation Beach Road. With its stunning view of the beach and lush coastal forest, Coco de Mer captures a unique blend of tranquility and sophistication. Our modern Bali-style design sets us apart as a truly exquisite boutique hotel. Every detail of our sixteen bedrooms has been carefully crafted, from the elegant finishes to the thoughtful amenities. You can choose a suite that overlooks the sparkling sea or one that faces the picturesque forest.

During your stay, you’ll find yourself perfectly positioned between Ballito’s vibrant attractions. Whether you’re in the mood for sun-soaked beach adventures or exploring the thriving nightlife, Coco de Mer offers the best of both worlds. And don’t forget, Ballito is famous for its bottlenose dolphins, so keep an eye out for these playful creatures as you relax on the beaches along the Dolphin Coast.

For those who enjoy fishing or a round of golf, the Zimbali and Umhlali Golf Courses are just a stone’s throw away. And if you’re in the mood for a nature escape, take a day trip to the Harold Johnson Nature Reserve, situated north of Ballito. With its tropical coastal forest surroundings, Coco de Mer is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable beach getaway.

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