Looking for ways to win brownie points from your better half this Valentine’s Day? If you’re based in Durban here are some ideas guaranteed to melt hearts and win smiles! From serious treats like paragliding or a spa session, to simple pleasures that don’t cost a thing – we’ve got you sorted for things to do for Valentine’s Day in Durban.
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Please note: most of these venues will require you to book beforehand, and it’s always best to confirm details and prices with the specific establishments concerned.
1. Valentine’s Day Concert at the Botanic Gardens
You can enjoy music by Kahn from the Parlotones, backed by Durban City Orchestra, as you breathe in the spectacular serenity of the gardens around you. The concert is part of the Old Mutual Music at the Lake Series, and starts at 7pm.
Venue: Durban Botanical Gardens
Price: Adults: pre-sold R130, or on the day R150 (R60 for kids 8 – 12, free for kids under 8)
Contact: Tel 031 322 4021, www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za
2. Air Safaris Mountain Top Picnic Flight
The flight takes you over the Valley of a Thousand Hills, and gives you gorgeous views of the Umgeni River flowing in the valley. Feast on a romantic picnic which includes picnic food and sparkling wine, as you enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the great Inanda dam. The return flight takes you over a beautiful waterfall and cave, to end the scenic flight.
Price: R4350 per couple, for a 1hr 45 minute flight
Depart from: Durban
Contact: Tel 0861 266 548, www.adventurebookings.co.za
3. The Golden Mile
Durban’s beach walk promenade is famous for good reason. Stroll down the beach with your beloved, following the six km self-guided path. The Portuguese explorers referred to the sand as ‘sands of gold’ which is how the name originated. There are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars along the way to explore.
4. Sky Adventures: get high
For the romantics, a hot air balloon flight is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Gently float up into the sky, and gaze down at spectacular views, as you whisper sweet nothings to each other and drift among the clouds. Upon landing, you will also be treated to a champagne breakfast.
Price: R2400 pp, for a 45 – 60 minute flight
Depart from: Champagne Valley
For the adrenaline junkies, what better way to get your hearts fluttering, than by jumping out of a plane together? An unforgettable experience – you will jump with a qualified instructor, and enjoy the thrill of soaring through the sky.
Price: R1800 pp
Depart from: Eston, near Pietermaritzburg
They also offer gyrocopter flights, paragliding, and tailor-made packages: get hold of them for more details.
Contact: Tel 073 334 7911, www.skyadventures.co.za
5. Spa special at Heaven on Earth
Indulge yourself and that special someone in your life, with a soothing, pampering spa experience. Heaven on Earth Day Spa is also offering a Couple’s Getaway Treatment special which sounds glorious. It includes one night’s accommodation at the Hotel on the Park, breakfast for two, a hot stone back massage, back exfoliation, a pampering facial and a candle lit Jacuzzi soak while you indulge on tea and cake.
Price: R1899
Contact: Tel 031 207 3364, www.heavenonearthspa.co.za
6. Moses Mabhida Stadium – the Big Swing
If you and your partner are feeling brave and are looking for an experience of a lifetime, this is just the thing for you! ‘The Big rush, big swing’ allows you to jump over the world cup football pitch, 106 meters above the ground, and swing out at 120 kph, in a massive 220 meter arc. Explore the Durban landmark from a totally different angle!
Price: R695 pp (no children under 10)
Contact: Tel 031 312 9281, www.mmstadium.com/attractions/big-swing
7. Chill at Shongweni Dam
Shongweni Dam and game reserve is the perfect spot for couples to relax and enjoy spectacular natural surrounding. You could take your own picnic, and sit and while away the time or go for a scenic walk. If you want to be a bit more active than that, there are game drives, rock climbing, abseiling, mountain bike rides or guided canoe journeys. What better way to enjoy Valentine’s Day than to paddle tranquilly up the dam, while watching for all sorts of wildlife and birds? Accommodation is also available for those wishing for a Valentine’s getaway.
Price: R37 for adults, R25 for kids and pensioners, R165 to hire a canoe.
Contact: Tel 031 769 1283, www.msinsi.co.za/shongweni
8. Learn to Surf
Why not try something new together? Sunny summer days are perfect for splashing around in Durban’s beautifully warm oceans. Laugh and have fun as a qualified expert from Learn to Surf, teaches you all the tricks to have you standing up on that board in no time!
Price: from R200 for one hour private lesson
Venue: Addington Beach near uShaka Marine World
Contact: Tel 083 414 0567, www.learn2surf.co.za
9. Valentine’s Day Getaways
Ready to burn the budget? Here you go. Zimbali hotel and resort offers the ideal location for a romantic escape. Located 25 km from Umhlanga Rocks, and surrounded by indigenous forest, each room has its own veranda ideally positioned to show off gorgeous ocean views. The luxury, five star boutique hotel will cater to you and your partner’s every need, with butlers provided to ensure you are well looked after. Enjoy the beauty of the surrounding beaches, or wake up early for a sunrise stroll along one of the forest trails.
Zimbali are offering a weekend getaway special, valid until March, which includes two nights accommodation, breakfasts and flights from Johannesburg to Durban.
Price: Price: R3320 pp sharing (Zimbali Lodge), R3770 pp (Zimbali Resort)
Contact: Tel 031 764 6564 for both resorts, www.zimbali.org
Kosi Forest Lodge is located in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and they’re offering a two nights in February special. It includes two nights’ accommodation, all meals, 4 x 4 transfer, guided canoeing and guided walks through Raffia Forests. Spoil yourself and the one you love with a relaxing retreat- revel in each other and beautiful natural surroundings guaranteed to make your weekend special.
Price: R3920 for two people for two nights, valid from 1st – 28th of February.
Contact: Tel 035 474 1473, www.isibindi.co.za/kfl/index.htm
