Hillcrest

Hillcrest at a glance

Hillcrest, part of the outer west suburbs of Durban, has transformed from a small village into a thriving suburb. The area features beautiful free-standing homes and some of the most prestigious security estates in the Upper Highway area. Property here is increasingly popular with discerning buyers who seek access to a variety of services, activities, and excellent schooling. Hillcrest is located close to the charming and established area of Kloof and is just a 30-minute drive from Durban.

History:

Founded in 1895 on a rise in the main road between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, Hillcrest was once known as a sleepy weekend town. Since the late 1990s, it has expanded massively. The first school in Hillcrest, when it was still known as "Hill Crest" until 1969, was established in a wood and iron cottage. The village was initially laid out as leasehold sites on a portion of the farm Albinia, owned by William Gillitt, after whom the nearby suburb of Gillitts is named.

Climate:

As part of the Upper Highway area, Hillcrest is significantly cooler than coastal Durban. The climate is mild, warm, and temperate with significant rainfall, even in the driest months. February is the hottest month, averaging 21.4°C, while June is the coldest, averaging 14.1°C.

Schools:

The Upper Highway area offers excellent schooling, including some of the best private schools in KwaZulu-Natal. These include Kearsney College, St. Mary's, Highbury Private, Curro Junior, Senior & High School, Thomas More College, and Waterfall Prep and College. Additionally, multiple new schools in the Waterfall area and the Curro Primary and High Schools have been welcome additions.

Healthcare:

Hillcrest boasts various medical facilities, including the recently completed Busamed Hillcrest Private Hospital, Medicross Hillcrest, Crest Health, the Highway Subacute and Rehabilitation Hospital, and numerous private practices offering dentistry, physiotherapy, health, and baby clinic services, among others.

Shopping:

Retail giants like Toyota, Jaguar, and Woolworths have recently flocked to Hillcrest, enhancing the shopping experience. Shopping centers include Hillcrest Corner, Hillcrest Village Centre, Hillgate Mall, the Lifestyle Centre, and Watercrest Mall, among many others. Shopping centers in Waterfall and Kloof are also within easy reach.

Distance from Key Points:

King Shaka International Airport is approximately 50 minutes from Hillcrest, while Durban's CBD can be reached in about 30 minutes.

Restaurants:

Hillcrest offers a variety of dining options, including cafes, steakhouses, fast food outlets, bars, and more formal establishments. Popular spots include Mozambik, Olive and Oil, Street Café, and Republik.

Special Attractions:

Hillcrest provides numerous activities for all ages, including markets like the Shongweni Farmers Market and the Hillcrest Country Market, mountain biking and horse riding at Giba Gorge Park, rock climbing at Monteseel, and scenic drives through the Valley of a Thousand Hills.

Surrounding suburbs: Bothas Hill, Assagay, Winston Park, Everton, Gillit