The quaint little town of Salt Rock is situated approximately 40 minutes north of Durban and is renowned as one of the best fishing spots in the region. Rock pools, reefs and crystal clear waters also make for excellent scuba diving opportunities and the town has a reputation for being one of the best vantage points from which to view schools of bottle nose dolphins, especially during sardine season in June and July each year.
The area is rich in Zulu cultural heritage and it is said that the origin of the town’s name dates back to the time of Shaka Zulu, whose handmaidens would collect dried salt from the rocks at low tide for trade with the early settlers.
The town owes much of its early history to Basil Hulett whose name is synonymous with one of KwaZulu-Natal’s leading industries – sugar production. Hulett and his wife Gwen, built the Salt Rock Hotel and the hamlet took shape around this landmark which continues to welcome guests from all over the world. The hotel and surrounds have for years been a favoured destination for those visiting the area and the island style resort is renowned for its warm sunshine, secluded beaches and exciting nightlife.
The streets of the town come alive at night, especially in holiday season when the restaurants, cafes and bars open their doors to the crowds looking for a bite to eat and some good old fashioned entertainment. Although Salt Rock itself comprises only a few main streets and is small in comparison to other centres, the area has all the trappings of any major holiday destination literally on its doorstep. Zimbali Health Spa and Country Club is a mere 10km away and the Umhlali Country Club is situated just outside the village.
Popular with both permanent and second home owners, recent statistics released by Lightstone reveal that a total of 39 transactions have taken place in Salt Rock in the last 12 months. The average price paid for a freehold property was R2, 193-million and the average for a sectional title unit was R1, 189-million.
Many of the properties in the area are B&B's and guest house establishments that cater for visitors to the seaside town. There are also a number of upmarket residential estates nearby, including the Simbithi Eco Estate, a 430 hectare development, offering unique and secure coastal living.
