Kloof: Where Village Vibes Meet Upmarket Living
Weaved into the rolling green hills of Durban’s Upper Highway area, Kloof offers a rare lifestyle that blends upmarket residential living and the tranquillity of nature with village vibes. With its cool misty mornings, leafy avenues, top-tier schools, and a strong sense of community, Kloof continues to be a suburb of choice for families, professionals, and retirees seeking comfort, space, and charm - without losing access to urban conveniences.
Whether it’s the scent of damp earth after rain, the familiar faces at your local café, or the sound of birdsong echoing from the valley, Kloof has a rhythm all its own - relaxed, restorative, and unmistakably welcoming.
Natural Beauty That Frames Daily Life
One of the most defining features of Kloof is its strong relationship with nature. The suburb quite literally rises above the village - offering residents crisp air, cooler temperatures, and panoramic views. At the heart of this natural haven lies the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, a spectacular gorge system cut through by the Molweni River. Spanning over 500 hectares, the reserve is a haven for hikers, bird enthusiasts, and families seeking adventure. Trails wind through indigenous forest and grassland, past waterfalls and rock pools, revealing a biodiverse world.
Closer to home, Memorial Park offers manicured lawns, shady trees, and sweeping valley views. It’s a peaceful community space perfect for morning dog walks, family picnics, or simply sitting quietly with a takeaway coffee while the mist lifts across the landscape.
A Suburb That Grows with You
Kloof's appeal spans generations, and its schools are a key reason why so many families choose to settle here. The suburb is home to several respected educational institutions that offer quality learning environments within minutes of home.
Thomas More College is a popular co-ed independent school offering a values-based education from preschool to matric, known for its balanced focus on academics, sports, and culture. Just down the road, Kloof Primary and High Schools provide a well-established schooling option with a proud history and strong community ties. St Mary’s DSG offers an all-girls private education grounded in tradition and academic excellence - one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most prestigious schools. Together, these institutions create a strong educational foundation for growing families and ensure that Kloof remains a nurturing place to raise children.
Everyday Essentials, Elevated
Kloof offers the kind of convenience that makes everyday living seamless. Kloof Village Mall and the nearby Fields Centre serve as the suburb’s main commercial hubs, offering supermarkets, pharmacies, boutique shops, and essential services. Here, errands feel less like chores - friendly staff greet you by name, and there's always time to chat with a neighbour while you grab your groceries.
For dining out or catching up over coffee, Bellevue Café is a beloved local institution. Set under a canopy of trees with a gentle hum of conversation in the air, it’s a go-to for everything from fresh breakfasts to business lunches and celebratory dinners. Its casual elegance and seasonal menu have earned it a loyal following, and it’s often the first stop for newcomers wanting a taste of the Kloof lifestyle.
Just across the road, Stoker's Arms brings a completely different kind of charm. Built beside a former train station, with an old locomotive still on display, this character-filled pub is known for hearty meals, cold draughts, and a warm, sociable atmosphere. It’s the sort of place where locals gather after school sports matches or unwind on a Sunday afternoon - a true community watering hole with a story to tell.
Recreation Rooted in Community
Kloof is more than just picturesque - it’s active. The Kloof Country Club offers world-class facilities for golf, tennis and padel, all set against a stunning natural backdrop. The club's welcoming atmosphere draws a diverse mix of members, from retirees enjoying their second swing to young families bonding over a shared love of the outdoors. With a restaurant, events venue, and social calendar to match, it’s as much about community as it is about sport.
For animal lovers and volunteers, the Kloof & Highway SPCA is a suburb staple. While visitors are encouraged to support the cause through adoptions, donations, or shopping at the SPCA's popular thrift store, even driving past the property is a cheerful reminder of the suburb’s compassionate culture.
A Neighbourhood with Character and Connection
Kloof’s streets tell stories - of heritage, pride, and rootedness. Roads like Abrey Road and Old Main Road are famous for their mature trees, graceful verges, and the kind of architecture that mixes old-world charm with understated elegance. From classic family homes set on sprawling plots to contemporary residences in secure estates, the area’s housing options offer both variety and investment potential. Places of worship like St Agnes Church, with its striking stone facade and rich history, provide more than just spiritual support - they offer anchor points for community connection.
Prime Location with an Elevated Feel
Situated just 20 minutes from central Durban and adjacent to suburbs like Hillcrest and Gillitts, Kloof enjoys easy access to both the city and the countryside. The M13 freeway cuts through the suburb, offering a quick link to business hubs while still maintaining the serenity of suburbia.
This elevated positioning also contributes to its milder climate. With cooler temperatures and less humidity than lower-lying parts of Durban, Kloof offers year-round comfort that’s hard to beat.
Property That Holds Its Value
Homes in Kloof are known for their generous proportions, lush gardens, and sense of privacy. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly home with space to grow, or a secure estate with lock-up-and-go appeal, the suburb has options for a wide range of buyers.
Freehold properties dominate, offering stability and long-term growth. Property prices here reflect the suburb’s desirability, with a steady demand from buyers drawn by its schools, scenery, and lifestyle. While Kloof has its fair share of upmarket homes, it often offers better value per square metre than coastal equivalents - a strong drawcard for those looking to stretch their investment while maintaining prestige and quality of life.
A Closer Look at the Property Market
Kloof is largely comprised of freehold homes, which make up just over 70% of its residential stock, underscoring its appeal to those seeking spacious, standalone properties in a serene, established suburb. With an average household income ranging between R140,000 and R175,000, it is a predominantly affluent area, falling within the LSM 10 High bracket. Ownership stability is a key feature, with 48% of current homeowners having remained in their properties for more than 11 years. Over the past 12 months, 166 property transactions were recorded, amounting to a total sales value of R449 million and an average sale price of R2.7 million. Kloof continues to attract a mature and middle-aged demographic, with recent buyer activity led by those aged 36–64, who are drawn to the area’s refined atmosphere, generous plot sizes, and enduring lifestyle appeal
In Kloof, life flows at its own pace. It’s a suburb where your kids can grow up climbing trees and riding bikes, where your neighbours become friends, and where nature is never more than a few steps away. From its green spaces to its gracious homes and deeply rooted community, Kloof offers not just a place to live - but a way to live.
Author Shelley Residential