We were well greeted by friendly staff but this was spoiled almost immediately by a warning that we should not leave the hotel on foot as it was far too dangerous! Locals might argue differently but for a couple of tired tourists, hardly the perfect greeting. Having been warned to use the room safe (crime again) we discovered that it had been broken. Change of room and by now we were wondering what we had let ourselves in for.

However things were rescued somewhat by a retreat to the excellent bar followed by the excellent restaurant. This, plus the staff, make the hotel one of the better in Durban. However our tour of the city the next day, arranged by the concierge, and rather overpriced even by UK standards (extortionate in Rand terms) led us to the conclusion that Durban was rather run down and shabby, not a lot to see and, indeed rather intimidating at times.

Our advice - stay to the north or south of the city - but if you must stay in town - this hotel is fine for a maximum of 2 nights.

The Protea Hotel is a fine hotel and has definitely earned their 4 star status. I was impressed with the level of service and would recommend this hotel. I would have given a 5 star rating but I had problems with the way they have designed their bath/shower. The shower screen was inadequate and meant every shower; water would go on the floor. Apart from this I am likely to return later next year.

I don't know where to start. The hotel staff is the best I have ever encounter anywhere. Can a staff be too attentive? If this hotel were in New York, I could not afford to stay here. An old hotel , but like aged wine. Maintained so well and located right on the beach. The dinning room is elegant and the dinner buffet! Why would you want to eat somewhere else? Relax in the wood paneled bar and know that you are in the company of the distingushed and elite who have sat right where you are seated and were no more impressed than you will be. We loved this hotel. And did I mention the breakfast? Pefect! Just like everything else!

We are a middle aged couple and stayed at the Edward this past weekend.
It was always a distant dream to stay there as it is an expensive facility even by European standards.
Needless to say it generally met our expectation and overall it was an experience we will always remember.
We found the front office staff very helpful although the concierge was average.
There was no-one to open the only door into the hotel as the revolving entrance was not working, surely at this class of hotel this should be the first thing one should expect especially after a 6 hours drive in 30deg C weather.
The room on the 2nd Floor was clean and totally adequate for a weekend stay and the air-conditioner worked extremely well.
The rooftop swimming pool is tiny but was a nice retreat after a long work along the marine parade.
The lunch on Sunday on the Terrace was tasty but hopelessly and absurdly overpriced, like they have totally lost the plot. Surely if you charge top dollar the meal must be exceptional.
The highlight was the breakfasts though, even though the bacon and sausages could be perceived as a little tired there was so much variety it would be hard to fault it.
As far as safety is concerned , we never felt threatened , just irritated at the street kids and other beggars, but this is a scourge one finds anywhere on the planet, so a firm and no further eye contact generally did the trick.
We had dinner at Joe Cools on the beach front and that is to be highly recommended.
Overall I would recommend the place, but DO NOT eat there other than breakfasts.