We have stayed at Essenwood House three times, each time for about one week, and will definitely stay there again when we are next in town. The upstairs rooms with balconies are best as they have great views. This year they have added free wireless internet and DSTV! The room we stayed in is beginning to look a little tired but overall it is always very enjoyable.

This is a real gem - a fantastic, well-appointed B&B in a great location in the Berea, with beautiful sea views. The owner is friendly and welcoming, the breakfasts are fantastic and the pool and gardens totally relaxing. Very reasonably priced, and definitely worth a stay. We'll certainly be back when next in Durban.

We stayed at beautiful Essenwood house for five days, and enjoyed every second. The owner is truly making every effort to make us feel comfortable. Due to a delayed bus, we arrived in the middle of the night, but he got up to let us in with a smile, even though we were supposed to be there five hours earlier.
The rooms are spacious, clean and gorgeous. Fresh flowers, fruit and that little chocolate on the pillow every afternoon made us feel very welcome.
The owner knows everything there is to know about Durban, and happily arranged taxis and recommended restaurants to us.
The breakfast was fantastic, and they can even arrange other meals such as lunch and dinner on request.
There is also a wonderful garden and a pool, great for relaxing.
We would not consider staying anywhere else in Durban!

I'd second everything everyone else said about the place. The owner takes a keen interest in the comfort of his guests--he wanders around at breakfast asking everyone if they know what they're doing for the day and how he can help. It was nice to spend time here. Glad I found it.