Pennington, named after the Pennington family who farmed here in the late 19th century, is a small town on the Kwazulu-Natal south coast, less than an hour's drive south of Durban. Set on a hillside with magnificent views of the Indian Ocean, Pennington is a favourite destination for holiday makers seeking pristine beaches (Blue Flag), warm waters, plenty of welcoming restaurants and, most importantly, a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The town benefits from a sub-tropical climate, with summer temperatures regularly reaching around 30c and winters averaging a high of 22c. The ocean temperature in Pennington ranges from around 26c in summer to 21c in winter: perfect for year-round swimming plus there is a tidal pool for those who prefer.
For the golfers, there are magnificent courses within minutes drive of each other: Selborne and Umdoni Park, both 18 hole, as well as Penn Valley, 9 hole.
Keen anglers will love fishing from the beach or sailing out for the deep sea bounty.
Plus there is plenty to do for nature lovers, surfers, walkers, mountain-bikers, scuba and shark cage divers; in fact there is something for everyone.
Botha House: an elegant Cape Dutch style house, built in the 1920s for Prime Minister General Louis Botha, by sugar entrepreneur and member of the Colony's Legislative Council, Sir Frank Reynolds.
Umdoni Park, named after the local indigenous tree, also established by Sir Frank Reynolds, to preserve the indigenous fauna and flora.
Nkomba Sanctuary (a registered site of conservation significance) consisting of forest, grasslands, wetland, riverine, forest and estuary, including a bird-hide, easy trails and a lovely picnic area with braai facilities.
Beaches: Umdoni Point in the south, Main Beach in the center and Nkomba Beach to the north
If you'd like more information about Botha House, you will enjoy Mary McKenzie's book: "Botha House: Its History and Its People". See the Classifieds Board for details on how to purchase.