Probably the oldest hotel on the recreational stretch of beachfront known as the Golden Mile, the Balmoral celebrates its centenary in 2008 and its attractive Victorian facade is still instantly recognizable from the monochrome photograph in the reception area. A relatively modest four-stories high, it is also one of the smaller and less institutionalized hotels on Durban's popular beachfront, with a great position above North Beach.
The reception area is large and has plenty of period character with its antique wood and marble reception desk, heavy chandelier, art deco sofa, ornate niches and various other Victorian and Edwardian furnishings.
A similarly time-warped atmosphere permeates the adjacent Waterfront Restaurant, which specializes in fresh seafood, but also serves a good selection of halaal meat and vegetarian dishes. For those who find the rather frilly restaurant a bit too fussy to evoke the appropriate seaside atmosphere, it's possible to eat on the large tiled terrace. The wrought iron tables and chairs are a lot more contemporary in feel, and they offer a good beachfront view.
The Balmoral is ideally located for exploring Durban's beachfront on foot. Popular with surfers and good for swimming in calmer conditions, North Beach lies directly in front of the hotel. There are numerous eateries and shops within easy waking distance; though taxis are recommended for safety reasons after dark. Also very accessible from here is the popular Seaworld Amusement Park and the exceptional uShaka Aquarium and Dolphinarium, both on the beachfront.
The best rooms are along the front of the building, as they all have sea views, whereas the back rooms look out to the streets. That aside, and with the option of a twin or king-sized bed, the rooms are all very similar with green carpeting and muted wallpaper creating a slightly old-fashioned feel.
The bedside tables, wardrobe and, writing desk are all made of wood, and facilities include satellite TV, air-con, hair dryer, tea/coffee making facilities, built in electronic safe and Internet connectivity. The tiled baths are on the small side and have a combination shower/bath and blue marble sink.
Though it's not quite as smart as the Royal Hotel, and it lacks that icon's top-notch business facilities and multiple restaurants, the Balmoral has a similarly conservative mood, with the significant advantage of an ideal beachfront location. It is suited more to leisure than to business travellers, and will probably appeal more to middle-aged and older travellers, rather than the younger crowd.
