Umhlali is back to it’s best

Umhlali has regained the charm of old, returning to the bustling, buzzing town that it once was.

160 years in the making, it still shows signs of age, but new life is being breathed into its creaky bones.

For the majority of the township’s history, Umhlali represented the main centre for farmers in the area between Durban and Stanger.

This correlated with the founding of Umhlali Preparatory, which this year celebrates its 104th anniversary.

The school and a few flagship tenants – including Second Chance, Sebastian and Sons, Coastals, Cindy’s, Rob Cools and the Post Office – remained steadfast while much of the central town fell into disrepair and storefronts were boarded over.

“Even since I arrived 5 years ago, there has been huge improvement in Umhlali. This has largely been a result of hard work from the community to restore this beautiful town,” said Second Chance owner, Penny Dudley.

These long-serving traders remain important parts of the community, while newer businesses assist in spreading the word of a rejuvenated town.

In line with Umhlali’s quaint character, where all manner of trinkets and hidden gems can be discovered, Ballito Self Storage offers the ideal facility in which to store new finds and family relics alike.

Similarly, SSS Aluminium & Glass, founded in 2008, offers top quality solutions that fit with the town’s renewed appeal and style.

You can now also find anything from healthy foods to even a boxing gym, with delightful delicacies both sweet and savoury on offer.

Take a trip to the Orange Tree in the Makers Yard, which is a beautifully serene space where you can while away an afternoon in comfort.

Owner Clare Sykes has designed a menu that will keep you coming back for more.

Umhlali has become a place for artists and businesspeople to congregate. Spend some time getting to know its intricacies and you will not be disappointed.

For breaking news follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Join our Telegram Broadcast Service at: https://t.me/joinchat/yJULuN8NaCs5OGM0

Join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service: Simply add 082 792 9405 (North Coast Courier) as a contact to your phone, and WhatsApp your name and surname to the same number to be added.