The Royal Hotel

S 29 51.565 E 031 01.550

The Royal Hotel is historically Durban's finest hotel just opposite City Hall. However, some bad reviews and the rise in crime in the city center have reduced the hotel's popularity. But the high-rise still offers some of the best views of the bay and the price to stay in this Durban landmark has never been better. There is a swimming pool on the roof, a spa and sauna and two quality restaurants in the building. Unfortunately for smokers, smoking rooms are on the lower floors and do not have a view. Non-smokers should aim for the highest floor possible and ask for a bay-facing room.

Tags: accommodation, bay-facing rooms, hotel, luxury rooms, ocean views, restaurants, rooftop swimming pool, sauna, spa, top-end stays