Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel

Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel

11 Sir Arthur Road Morningside, Durban 4001 South Africa
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

View prices for your travel dates

Did you already book this hotel?
Tell us so we can help you plan.

About

#13 of 55 hotels in Durban
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Built in 1928, Audacia Manor is a lavish hotel centrally-located minutes from the ICC, the Golden Mile beachfront and Moses Mabhida Stadium, Kingsmead and Kings Park. Most of our rooms have balconies that provide 180 degree views of the city and the ocean, while our Coach House offers private courtyards with outside spa baths and outdoor showers. We offer a personalised service to all our esteemed GUESTS, so whether you are in town for business or leisure, our team will ensure a fantastic stay and great memories.
Read more
Suggest edits to improve what we show.Improve this listing
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Bar / lounge
Bicycle rental
Golf course
Babysitting
Airport transportation
Parking
Wifi
Outdoor pool
Restaurant
Poolside bar
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
Massage
Baggage storage
Concierge
Non-smoking hotel
Express check-in / check-out
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Room features
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Coffee / tea maker
Minibar
Flatscreen TV
Bath / shower
Hair dryer
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to TGCSA - Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.
5.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Residential Neighbourhood
Languages Spoken
English, French

Location

11 Sir Arthur Road Morningside, Durban 4001 South Africa
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 67 out of 100
67
King Shaka Intl Airport
25.8 km
See all flights
Pietermaritzburg Airport
63.1 km
See all flights
Traveller rating
  • 114
  • 37
  • 13
  • 10
  • 8
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
Selected filters
  • Filter
  • English
Sort by:
Detailed Reviews
mark H wrote a review Nov 2014
Leeds, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This is a tastefully restored colonial mansion run as a boutique hotel undergoing another facelift. 9 or 10 (not sure which) grand spacious rooms four of the five rooms in the old house have great balconies. The new garden annex rooms have their own private outdoor jacuzzis. Fabulous relaxing views over Durban and to the sea. Cooling breezes. Lovely garden and pool. Fantastic bar/ restaurant veranda terrace. Staff attentiveness cannot be faulted. I was greeted by name as soon as I got out of the car on all three visits (bearing in mind on the first one they had never met me before but had worked out who I was by the time I was arriving). The staff remember what drinks I like and at what time of day. Totally home from home. The duty manager Margot came to ask for my next stay what could they do to make it better for me so that if there were certain little snacks or drinks I preferred these would be in my room next time. Even though I couldn't say there was anything at least they cared.The perfect antidote to the impersonal sameness of 5 star chains which is where I usually stay. And amazing value for money compared to all the other 5 star Durban/ Umghlanga hotels. For instance I never eat breakfast which is in my room rate so any tea and coffee I may order during the day they do not charge me. Tell me where else you would get that? If you are in Durban STAY HERE. I will never stay anywhere else now when in Durban.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LadyL69, General Manager at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel
Responded 04 Dec 2014
Dear MarkH, It means a great deal to us that a Tripadvisor Veteran gives us such a great review. It is always our pleasure to host you Sir and we strive to offer you only the best. The STAFF and I look forward to welcoming you back. All the Best, Liesl
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jansmorfitt wrote a review Jun 2015
Westbrook Beach, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The location is very central for all our clients and it was a superb venue for a presentation. The catering was delicious while the staff were all brilliant. All my requests were handled professionally, nothing was too much trouble. I will definitely use them again.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2015
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LME88 wrote a review Nov 2014
Durban, South Africa
4.0 of 5 bubbles
I had my wedding here on the 30th October and it was very special. Margo, Thando, Melanie and Jean-François were all very helpful and hands on. Venue was beautiful, and service great. Many of our guests commented on excellent service. The food was also lovely and portions huge! Thanks to the team for a great day.
Read more
Date of stay: October 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LadyL69, General Manager at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel
Responded 04 Dec 2014
Dear LME88, We are honoured that you hosted your wedding at Audacia. It was our pleasure to share this memorable occasion with you and your husband! Thank you for the compliments LME88. We hope to see you soon, Liesl
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
nompumelelom552 wrote a review Nov 2021
Cape Town, South Africa
1.0 of 5 bubbles
What a let down.

I'm actually at a loss for words with disappointment.

I was given a well torn hand towel. The phone in my room didn’t work. I put my suitcase on a chair as there was no provision for it. No hand soap in the bathroom.

The cherry on top was the first morning. I waited at the breakfast table and when no one approached. I eventually walked towards the kitchen. The chef told me that she was alone as receptionist was still not in. I asked if I could have takeaway yogurt as it was 6h40 and I had to get to the conference. She explained that they don't have it - fair enough. I called an uber and waited at the foyer.

I overheard the chef telling the cleaner that "I was complaining with a grim face and what was she supposed to do as the receptionist isn't in."

Totally unacceptable. The place also needs a proper revamp and staff training.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2021Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NautieZA wrote a review Mar 2013
Durban
2.0 of 5 bubbles
To me, one of the ways to assess service is how the provider, is how things are handled when things go wrong. From that point of view, the restaurant and the management at the hotel didn’t match up.

But ok, first the good parts. As another reviewer mentioned, it is great to sit on the veranda and look out to the stadium and the across the city. Must be one of the best sites (for sights) in Durban. And, barring the experience described below, the food is ok, if not “wow-worthy”, although be aware that by local standards it is expensive.

So let’s first say that this is a boutique hotel. That should mean personalized service and attention to detail—all of which you are paying for, of course. For a hotel of this standard one would expect properly trained staff.

My experience: we went there a few months back now, for a work function, with a foreign guest. Basically what happened is that the waiter didn’t get the order right. There certainly were some problems in communication. (The details were that that she informed us that the fish of the day was “sole” or “sword”. I like the former, but would never order the latter. So we asked, not once, but a couple of times to confirm that it was indeed “sole”. When the food came, it was quite clear to everyone just by looking that it was not sole. I queried it again, but was told it was “definitely sole”. I didn’t want to make a fuss and spoil the evening for the others, so I let it go.)

So ok, these things happen. But after a day or so I decided to take up the issue with the management of the hotel. They confirmed that the fish that day would have been sword, not sole. They issued an apology, and invited me to dine there again on them. A friend and I duly went the next weekend. Clearly there’d been some misunderstanding, because it was only ONE main course that was free. The rest we had to pay for. (Just to be clear, I wasn’t expecting an entire meal for two on the house, but a single free course wasn’t good enough.) In fact, the “free” meal ended up costing us quite a lot (by Durban standards it is an expensive place to eat). So, for the second time I left with a bad taste in my mouth (pun intended), vowing never to return.

For the prices that Audacia charges (probably not that expensive if you are spending Euros or Pounds, but a lot for locals), you expect a good overall experience. And if something goes wrong, management should make sure that customers’ complaints are resolved to their satisfaction. We never heard from management again—but then again, they’ll never hear from me again! :-) (About a week later we ate at a similarly priced restaurant quite close by. What a difference, particularly in the attitude of the staff. All helpful, and knowledgeable about the food. In fact, afterwards I phoned to compliment them. It was such a pleasant experience: maybe I should write a review for them!)

A postscript: my little “revenge” (if it even merits that word). Shortly afterward, an overseas friend was looking to book in at the hotel, but on my advice decided to go elsewhere. Petty? Perhaps, but that’s what happens when you leave customers unsatisfied.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2012Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Pierre G, Guest Relations Manager at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel
Responded 20 May 2014
Dear NautieZA. Thank you for your feedback. Since your visit to the property we have changed ownership and management. We have focused on training of an effective team which holds the values of our management group close to heart. I hope that we will be able to welcome you back to the property to correct the mistakes of the past. Kind Regards Pierre Gertenbach
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Robert B wrote a review Nov 2014
Horsham District, United Kingdom
1.0 of 5 bubbles
This is supposed to be an African Pride hotel in Durban with charm and character.
It is a small establishment which is very dated and dreary and staff that are ignorant and incompetent.
This afternoon Friday the 21st November they are having a year end party with a very loud disco directly below me, I am on the first floor, their are no other floors.
The establishment is totally unsuited for hosting hotel guests and wild parties at the same time as this hotel has no sound proofing or is it a high rise building so the noise would fade out over a distance.

If I was the owners I would arrange for a bulldozer and skip for the bricks and mortar and staff to be thrown in.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2014
1.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
1.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
1.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LadyL69, General Manager at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel
Responded 04 Dec 2014
Dear Rob5710, My apologies that we did not exceed your expectations.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Candy C wrote a review Sept 2014
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We got married on the 30th of August 2014. We arrived at Audacia Manor on our wedding night around 23:00pm. On arrival the staff assisted us with our luggage and very quickly helped us to our suite(The clock room)The room was lit up with candles,chocolates,champagne,fruit and rose petals throughout the room.Thank u Liesl and staff for making our first night amazingly romantic. The second night we went to another suite (Berkshire) and wow this room was luxury. We had a blast & we made beautiful memories. Cannot stop raving about that place.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2014Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from LadyL69, General Manager at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel
Responded 24 Sept 2014
Dear Candy C, We were privileged to have been part of such an important day in your life. Thank you for allowing us to create a memorable memory for you Candy C. Welcome to the Audacia Family. Liesl
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sharon T wrote a review Jun 2014
Durban, South Africa
2.0 of 5 bubbles
My daughter chose to stay here on the night before her wedding, 11th April, with her bridesmaid as she was getting married the following day at the church over the road. We booked the Surrey and Sussex rooms for them and organised a dinner for 20 on the night of the 11th. On arrival we were told they were having a problem with a guest who had decided to move himself back into one of the rooms we had booked. I am not sure how he was able to do this without a key.
We proceeded to carry on with the evening with a few drinks before dinner to be told there was no ice for the drinks which had not been refrigerated. Finally ice arrived! When going in for dinner we were seated at a long table set for us with not even a little flower in sight, only salt and pepper containers and the odd unlit tea-light candle. The room was brightly lit with absolutely no ambience at all which is such a pity as the room could have looked so much better even just correctly lit.
We had a 3 course meal which really was quite tasty when they finally got the order correct. The service was not good at all.
Finally the guest was removed from the room and my daughter was able to check in.
What happened the next morning was too terrible!!! This should have been the start of a happy day for my daughter but instead she had the previous guest banging on her door and swearing at her for taking his room which we had booked months in advance. There was a complete absence of managerial staff, they had to be called in to take control of the situation which finally ended with the guest and his wife being escorted off the property by a local security company.
None of this should ever have happened.
The 2 rooms we booked were very nice with amazing views over Durban but the whole experience left such a bad memory as a start to such a special day.
I was very keen to have my 60th birthday party here but have definitely reconsidered. I am just so pleased that my daughter's wedding reception was at the Oyster Box where they know how to treat guests and were outstanding in everything they did.
Read more
Date of stay: April 2014
3.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
3.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
2.0 of 5 bubblesService
3.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Pierre G, General Manager at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel
Responded 06 Jun 2014
Dear Mr Thayer, On behalf of the Management and STAFF at African Pride Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel, I would like to apologise most sincerely for the unacceptable service experiences.I assure you that the experience receive in no way represents the standard we’re trying to achieve. We are as committed as ever to providing each GUEST with a most memorable magnificent African Pride service experience. I confirm that this matter has been investigated and that our TEAM has taken the appropriate action to rectify the shortcomings in our service and facilities. Thank you for taking the time to give us your constructive criticism, as it is absolutely necessary for us to know how our GUESTS experience our service. Your comments have reached the attention of all voiced and have assisted us in creating a commitment to ensure that situations such as these do not arise in the future. Please allow us another opportunity to show you our true hospitality at its best, I look forward to hearing from you. Warm Regards, Liesl Schonken General Manager
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PeterGrobler wrote a review Aug 2011
Cape Town Central, South Africa
4.0 of 5 bubbles
This hotel is well situated near Florida road where there are many restaurants.

The rooms are very stylish with four poster beds and even outside showers and spa baths. There is also a proper place to work for business people.

The breakfast makes a pleasant change from the normal buffet.

The hotel also has good conference facilites
Read more
Date of stay: August 2011
3.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
chic_traveler_8 wrote a review Feb 2010
Miami
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This hotel shows the difference between a good service and a fantastic service.
I had the deluxe king bed with a private courtyard - which was phenomenal. With an outside spa bathroom and shower (as well as an indoor one) I could hardly tear myself away from my room. I had accidentally pressed the wrong button on my remote and when I called to the main house, they were willing to bring in a new TV! (at midnight..)

I had room service ( brought within 20 min of ordering!) and it was unique, delicious mix of flavors. The wine collection is extensive for a boutique hotel. The mini bar was well stocked but also left ample room if you wanted to bring in your own drinks.

On my second evening, I had invited a few of my friends in the city to come over for drinks. Because of the size of the group, they were unable to seat us last minute but were able to recommend restaurants in the area, show us their menus, make a reservation at our chosen place AND send in our orders while we finished our drinks.

Breakfasts (which are included in the price) were superb and could be enjoyed on the terrace, by the pool or in your room. Next time, I would like to try the sea-view room for a bit of change.

I am recommending this place to anyone within a 50 mile radius of Durban who is looking for a more personal approach to service. Congratulations Audacia!
Read more
Date of stay: February 2010
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Answer from hekpoortheksie
Magaliesburg, South Africa2,104 contributions124 helpful votes
This question can only be answered by the hotel itself , I can't help .. Perhaps give them a call , kind regards
TGwatiringa asked a question Sept 2016
Harare, Zimbabwe97 contributions58 helpful votes
Howa many rooms do you have in total??
Answer from Shannon_Naidoo2017
Durban, South Africa2 contributions2 helpful votes
Good day, We have 10 rooms, all with king size beds, en suite bathrooms, mini bar fridge, tea and coffee facilities. 5 rooms have balconies overlooking the ocean and 4 rooms have outside Jacuzzi baths and outside shower (including inside bath and shower). If you need anything else please don't hesitate to ask. Kind regards Melanie Campbell
Answer from LadyL69
Durban, South Africa11 contributions4 helpful votes
Dear Cumstomerk, Thank you for inquiring at African Pride Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel. We are situated a mere 5min drive from the Durban Golden Beachfront, 2min drive or 10min walk to the famous Moses Madiba Stadium that is surrounded by activities. Durban's greatest street is called Florida road which has many restaurants and entertainment it is only 2min car drive and 10 min walk. Our GUEST walk often to these destinations. We do have reliable cabs for you to use as well. Please let me know should you wish to make a reservation at our Elegant Hotel. Many Thanks, Liesl
Answer from LadyL69
Durban, South Africa11 contributions4 helpful votes
Good Morning Kathron, Thank you for inquiring at African Pride Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel. All our rooms are spacious, have full ensuite with Victorian bath's and separate showers. Your room is equipped with full GUEST amenities, electronic safes, hairdryer, DVD players, selected DSTV channels and uncapped WI-FI. Kathron we have two room types to choose from a room that boasts a balcony with a beautiful view of Moses Madiba Stadium and Indian Ocean or an outdoor patio with a thermal SPA bath. Should you wish to make a reservation you are welcome to contact me directly. Hope to hear from you soon, Liesl
SuzanneStyles wrote a tip Oct 2018
Johannesburg, South Africa23 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The main house rooms have wonderful views, and the Coach House is beautiful"
Read full review
_robyn8110 wrote a tip Mar 2018
Cape Town, South Africa6 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Surrey Sussex or Berkshire rooms are great"
Read full review
Martin P wrote a tip Mar 2018
Cape Town Central, South Africa18 contributions4 helpful votes
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Do not expect a five star hotel"
Read full review
Catherine B wrote a tip Mar 2018
3 contributions1 helpful vote
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"We stayed in the Sussex room which has a fabulous(shared) terrace and great views of Durban."
Read full review
N123567 wrote a tip Mar 2018
Cape Town Central, South Africa94 contributions15 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Surrey room with the balcony"
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Durban area.
PRICE RANGE
R 1,309 - R 1,345 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
African Pride Audacia Manor
LOCATION
South AfricaKwaZulu-NatalDurban
NUMBER OF ROOMS
10
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Claim Your Listing

AUDACIA MANOR BOUTIQUE HOTEL - Reviews & Price Comparison (Durban, South Africa)

Frequently Asked Questions about Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel
Which popular attractions are close to Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Moses Mabhida Stadium (1.1 km), Big Rush Urban Adrenaline (1.2 km), and Mitchell Park Zoo (0.8 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and a poolside bar during their stay.
Is parking available at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel?
Conveniently located restaurants include Mali's Indian Restaurant, Butcher Boys Florida Road, and Antique Cafe.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel have airport transportation?
Yes, Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Does Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel offer any business services?
Yes, guests have access to meeting rooms and a banquet room during their stay.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and French.
All Durban HotelsDurban Hotel DealsLast Minute Hotels in DurbanHotels near Audacia Manor Boutique Hotel
Things to DoRestaurantsFlightsHoliday HomesTravel StoriesCruisesCar Hire