Forest Hills at a glance
Forest Hills is in the Upper Highway Area, which includes Hillcrest, Kloof, and Gillitts, known for its natural beauty and scenic views. Situated on the edge of the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, it is surrounded by rolling hills, indigenous forests, and lush vegetation, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Forest Hills offers a mix of residential properties, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Known for its quiet, peaceful atmosphere and close-knit community, it is a popular choice for families and retirees. This sought-after neighborhood in Hillcrest is valued for its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to amenities.
History:
Hillcrest and Forest Hills date back to the late 1800s with the arrival of British settlers. Initially used for agriculture and farming, the area was famous for its rolling hills, verdant vegetation, and natural resources. The early 1900s saw rapid expansion and growth as people moved to the region seeking a better quality of life. The establishment of a railway facilitated transportation, further fueling growth and development.
Climate:
Forest Hills has a moderate climate with warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures range from the late 20s to early 30s Celsius (December-March), with cooler evenings (late teens to early 20s). Winter days are typically mild, reaching the late teens to early 20s Celsius, with much cooler evenings.
Schools:
Forest View Primary School, established in 1973, offers education from Grade R to Grade 7 with an average of 25 students per class. Nearby educational institutions include Curro School Hillcrest High, Kloof Junior Primary School, Kloof Pre-Primary, Kloof High School, Thomas More College, Hillcrest High School, Kearsney College, Highbury Preparatory, and Waterfall College.
Healthcare:
Forest Hills is a 16-minute drive from Busamed Hillcrest Private Hospital. Other nearby medical facilities include Highway Sub-acute and Rehabilitation Hospital and Medicross Hillcrest.
Shopping Centres:
Forest Hills is a 6-minute drive from Watercrest Mall, which offers over 130 stores, including Woolworths, Spar, Checkers, Game, and Dischem, as well as Ster-Kinekor cinemas. Other nearby shopping centers include Kloof Village Mall, Link Hills Shopping Centre, Christians Village Shopping Centre, and Hillcrest Corner.
Distance from Key Points:
Forest Hills is 51 km from King Shaka International Airport, reachable by car in approximately 55 minutes via the N2 and M13 roads.
Restaurants:
Forest Hills offers a variety of dining options to suit all preferences and budgets. Notable restaurants include Friend House Chinese and Sushi Take Away, Stoker's Arms, Bellevue Cafe, Tommy's Sushi Shop, The Kitchen at Cotswold, and The Hussar Grill Kloof.
Special Attractions:
Forest Hills emphasizes community engagement with activities and attractions for the whole family. The Forest Hills Sports Club is a social and sports hub offering outdoor sports like running, tennis, cricket, soccer, and rugby, along with a licensed bar and four televisions for sports enthusiasts.
The Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, established in 1950 by the Natal Parks Board, spans 532 hectares and is home to a rich abundance of flora and fauna, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and over 1500 plant species. With its dense forests and lush vegetation, the reserve offers stunning views of the Molweni River and the gorge it has carved out, making it ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and nature lovers.
Surrounding suburbs: Waterfall, Crestholme, Kloof & Everton