Durban - As most Durbanites know, the best seat in town is usually by the sea.
But factor in a little elevation, and the true beauty of the city is revealed.
Durban and its surrounding areas have a wealth of “top” spots that offer a majestic vista of the city and coastline.
The Independent on Saturday took a look at some of Durban’s hangouts for high flyers that offer the best views. Although there are several venues, this is a sample of the offerings.
One of the latest “aerial” spots being built at the moment is the Sky Lounge at the Belaire Suites Hotel on the beachfront. Owner Jeremy Jiran said the new venue takes full advantage of Durban’s views.
“We will have a breakfast area at the top and we will open it for functions and weddings.”
It cost R22-million to build.
Architect Peter Ries said they had been briefed to design a conference and entertainment facility on the 11th floor of the building.
“It will have beautiful views of the coastline,” said Ries.
The steel and glass structure will hopefully be completed by the middle of this year.
Just down the road is the multi-purpose venue on the 31st floor of the Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani Hotel’s Maharani Tower called Sky. Launched in 2013, Sky was a renovation of the popular Raffles bar that sat atop the old Maharani about three decades ago. It offers panoramic views of Durban.
And who can forget the only revolving restaurant in the southern hemisphere, the Roma Revolving, just off Margaret Mncadi Avenue (Victoria Embankment). The restaurant that opened in February 1973 still operates today and owner Gino Leopardi said it undoubtedly offered the best views in Durban. While it rotates, diners can see the city from all angles, with excellent sea and bay views, and a spectacular view of Moses Mabhida stadium.
Moving further up the coast, to Umhlanga, the Lighthouse Bar at The Oyster Box Hotel is said to offer the best views of the Umhlanga coastline, and the iconic red and white lighthouse that sets the backdrop to magnificent ocean views.
And moving towards the Durban suburbs, the sixth floor of Coastlands Musgrave has a stunning view of Durban.
The functions venue is a popular spot for weddings.
Arthi Sanpath, Independent on Saturday