Kloof, Kloof

Kloof is well-known as being characterised by a relaxed, sophisticated way of life. It gets its name, which literally means "gorge" in Afrikaans, from the deep ravine which was formed by the Molweni stream. It is a well-loved suburb in the Upper Highway area, renowned for its winding, tree-lined roads and luxurious houses. Situated in close proximity to other well-loved areas such as Gillitts and Hillcrest, it is also within easy reach of Durban and Umhlanga.

A brief history of the area

The land upon which the suburb of Kloof is built was originally part of a farm given to William Swan Field by the British Government in 1851 as a reward for the work that he had completed for them. The well-known stretch of road which lead from Pinetown to Kloof - Field's Hill - was named after Field. Later subdivisions of this farm resulted in Kloof becoming a residential area, with plots being sold to wealthy residents of Durban and other surrounding areas. Kloof's popularity burgeoned in the 1960s and 1970s, with many people being attracted to the area's sizable properties and country ambience.

Climate

As part of the Upper Highway area, Kloof is known for being significantly cooler than its coastal neighbour of Durban. The majority of the area's rainfall occurs in the summer months, when average temperatures range from minimums of around 13ºC to maximums of approximately 26ºC. During the coldest months of June and July, minimum temperatures drop to approximately 8ºC, with the mercury rising to about 21ºC by midday.

Schools in the area

Looking for an excellent school in Kloof? There are plenty of great options in close proximity - some of which are right on your doorstep. Primary schools in close proximity include Kloof Junior Primary School, Kloof Senior Primary School and Forest View Primary School. When it's time to go to high school, pupils from these schools typically attend Kloof High School. Private schools in the area include St Mary's Diocesan School for Girls and Thomas More College.

Healthcare in the area

There is no shortage of healthcare options in the vicinity of Kloof. Busamed Hillcrest Private Hospital is a stone's throw away, as is Life Crompton Hospital, with Life Westville Hospital just slightly further away. A variety of general practitioners, physiotherapists, dentists and other medical professionals can be found in the area.

Shopping centres

With Kloof Village Mall, Fields Hill Shopping Centre and Delcairn Lifestyle Centre all situated in the heart of Kloof, residents will find just about anything that they are looking for. A larger centre, Hillcrest Corner, is also within easy reach of Kloof.

Distance from key points (Airport/CBD)

The driving distance from Kloof to Durban's King Shaka International Airport is approximately 50km. In average traffic, it will take you about 40 minutes to get there. Durban's CBD is approximately 23km or a 20-minute drive away.

Restaurants

If you're looking to enjoy a meal out in Kloof, you are in for a treat. If you're in the mood to discover a Kloof institution, it's time to head to Stokers Arms, which is a great spot whether you're looking to have a drink with friends in the evening or take the kids for lunch. There's a great kids' area to keep the little ones entertained, and the menu offers an assortment of delicious pub fare. In the mood for something a little more elegant? Locals are likely to recommend that you head to Bellevue Cafe, which is a local restaurant which has built a reputation for its casual bistro vibes and a trendy ambience in which to enjoy a meal. 1904 Bistro Américain has dedicated it's name to the year in which hamburgers gained national recognition in the USA. As the name implies, the focus here is on American food, from burgers and gourmet hot dogs to flapjacks, chowders and much more.

Top three things to do in and around Kloof

Kloof offers plenty to do for the whole family.

1. Krantzkloof Nature Reserve
On a sunny Saturday or Sunday, Krantzkloof Nature Reserve offers you the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. There are picnic sites and self-guided walks as well as popular rock climbing sites to enjoy.

2. Makaranga
As a resident of Kloof, you have 30 acres of indigenous and exotic botanical gardens, together with a waterfall and an abundance of streams to enjoy, right on your doorstep. Makaranga is the perfect place to explore, and you can also attend concerts and outdoor movie nights that are held here from time to time.

3. Inchanga Choo Choo
On the last Sunday of every month, the Inchanga Choo Choo, run by Umgeni Steam Railway, puffs its way from Stokers Arms in Kloof to the Inchanga Craft Market, where you can do some shopping and have a picnic under the trees while the kids enjoy a pony ride or the jumping castle.

Make Kloof your home. Let it be your story.

Ask just about any resident of Kloof and they will tell you that this is a fantastic place to live. Seeff Hillcrest & Kloof has a wide variety of properties available for sale and to rent in the area. Contact us today and allow us to help you find your new home in Kloof.