Umhlanga Ridge Town Centre has undergone major changes over the last 2 years, becoming a place designed around modern and convenient living for its residents. With the addition of retail and corporate centres, individuals residing within this precinct will have everything they need and more right on their doortsep. As a resident you also have access to green outdoor and indoor recreational amenities like restaurants and cafés, kids’ play areas and safe park spaces. Many of Umhlanga’s best attractions are accessible on foot or a short drive from Ridge Town Central. There’s so much to explore in the neighbourhood and many memorable experiences to be had. Whether your preference is eating out, keeping active or spending time with the kids, Umhlanga offers the opportunity to experience all of that and more.

Eating out

Imagine stepping into a traditional Italian deli where you can sample some of the finest Italian-style products around? Old Town Italy is the place. Located just a stone’s throw from Ridge Town Central on Meridian Drive, this restaurant has achieved a following in a short time. This place is a stylish blend of a restaurant, deli and grocery store all in one. Pick up artisanal breads and cheese, cold meats, ready-to-cook foods, fresh salads and desserts and ready-to-eat takeaway meals. The shelves are stocked with imported Italian goods like pickles, pastas, biscotti and cordials. Sit down and enjoy a meal on the pavement, grab a coffee and a fresh pastry to-go; or even better, indulge in an Italian gelato in a sugar cone! The pistachio gelato is a favourite.

Keeping kids entertained

Open green areas are not always easy to find in urban areas, but Umhlanga is the perfect balance of modern apartment living and safe outdoor areas. Chris Saunders Park is a short walk from Ridge Town Central and is a wonderful place for the kids to run free or to walk the dogs. Just behind the Umhlanga fire station lies the ideal family park. Looked after by the Ridge Management Association, this park is clean and safe and has climbing apparatus for kids. Future plans see the inclusion of an outdoor gym which will add even more for the residents of the area when it comes to keeping fit and staying active.

Close to the coast

The beaches of Umhlanga continue to draw crowds. Living at Ridge Town Central means you’re a few minutes away from the beach. The Umhlanga Promenade is a managed area overseen by the Umhlanga UIP (Urban Improvement Precinct). Being managed by the UIP means the area remains safe, clean and accessible. Along the 2 ½ kilometre promenade are little artisanal grab-and-go coffee shops, newcomer Bellazar Café and Umhlanga stalwart, La Spiaggia. The promenade is a hive of activity for most of the day and into the early evening with runners, dogs, kids, prams and couples-in-arms. Along the beach, rock pools reveal themselves when it’s low tide and kids can be seen netting fish and splashing around. Low tide is also the perfect time for a long stroll along the shoreline.

Living in the hub of Umhlanga means easy access to a range of recreational amenities, many of which, like the beach and parks, are free to enjoy.