The
Mighty Drakensberg Mountains by Phillip Lagerwall
The Drakensberg is a 200
km long stretch of mountains in South Africa, the majority of this range
falls in the Kwa Zulu Natal province. Translated into English, Drakensberg
means "Dragons Mountain" and its Zulu name ukhalamba, meaning "barrier
of spears" gives a brief description of this truly magical mountain range.
It
is said to have been inhabited since the Stone Age and has captivated the
imagination of every generation and culture, such as the San hunter gatherers
and the Zulus, to have laid eyes on it. The Boers were forced to negotiate
through this mountain range in 1837 during the great trek in order to reach
their "promised land" and they came up with the name Drakensberg.
Towns
in the surrounding area include Bergville,
Estcourt,
Underberg
and Himeville,
Mooi
River, Nottingham
Road, Rosetta, Winterton,
Kokstad, MatatieIe and Swartberg. In the year 2000 the Ukhalambha-Drakensberg
Park was made a world heritage site and rightly so. It met both the
criteria for the natural and cultural listings and is a rare example of
where such awesome displays of nature are interlaced with a deep and rich
history. If one is in the South Africa it is a definite must see.
As
for accommodation the Drakensberg has it all. You can find yourself getting
a deep tissue massage at a luxury spa or sharing a cave with other adventurous
hikers. It also has hotels, bed and breakfast, guest houses, caravan sites,
camping grounds and cabins so what ever your preference you are guaranteed
to find it.
Activities
are limitless and this region caters for every walk of life and every age.
Obviously the most popular activity is hiking and walks. Once again the
region caters for all, whether you would like to take a slow amble alongside
one of the hundreds of streams and rivers or maybe spend five days on a
guided hike through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.
Other popular activities include horse riding, quad biking, fly fishing
for trout in a crisp mountain stream, playing on one of the many world
class golf resorts, taking the 4X4 on a trail or simply catching up on
some rest with a good book. The Drakensberg is also home to many game reserves
managed and run by the Kwa Zulu Natal Parks Board where you have the chance
of seeing many varieties of antelope, like Eland and the elusive Bushbuck,
hundreds of species of birdlife and of course the baboon troops that make
these mountains there home. The parks have excellent facilities and you
can buy a pamphlet at reception that gives you a map and list of the trails
in the park. Another major attraction is the bushman caves in various parts
of the range. At Giants castle there is a bushman museum which allows you
to get an insight into the life of the earliest inhabitants of this region
and guided hikes can be taken to view the caves they lived in and the ancient
paintings on the walls of these caves.
This area some how manages
to offer a platter of accommodation, activities and experiences that appeal
to such a wide variety of tastes that it is rare to come away from a holiday
in the region and not have had a wonderful and memorable time.
About the Author - For more
information on the Drakensberg and Drakensberg Holiday Destinations visit
http://www.wti24seven.com
for relevant information and available travel services in the area.
Bingelela
B & B, NORTHERN DRAKENSBERG Bingelela B & B is situated
on a farm in Northern Drakensberg. Situated as central as can be for your
much needed getaway, overnight stay or gateway to the amazing Northern,
Central or Southern Drakensberg. 10 Free standing cottages provides
comfortable, affordable and homely accommodation. Cottages are serviced
on a daily basis. Our Contemporary Classic Restaurant is well known
in the area and is a favorite meeting point for young and old. For
your entertainment we offer quad bikes and a quad track for hire. Our lovely
Al Fresco setting round the swimming pool ensures a most relaxing and enjoyable
stay for young and old!
Drifters
Drakensburg Inn, Lodge, Bergville, NORTHERN DRAKENSBERG National Heritage Site,
this 1000 hectare indigenous farm has to be seen to be believed. Accessible
only by 4x4 or transport provided, this mountain lodge is situated at an
elevation of 1800 meters above sea level and is shadowed by the greater
Drakensberg peaks on the property. The closest village is Bergville,
some 50km away. Home to a colony of the rare Cape Vulture and many other
indigenous species including Eland, as well as lush indigenous forests,
Bushmen paintings and dramatic waterfalls, the reserve is fantastic for
hiking and exploring. Accommodation is in seven Canadian styled log
cabins, each comprising of two twin-bedded bedrooms sharing a bathroom.
Self-drive clients enjoy a bathroom en-suite. Each room has a fireplace.
A main communal cabin for eating and a cosy bar for socializing overlooks
the Royal Natal National Park’s famous Amphitheatre.
Alpine
Heath Resort (Three Cities Group), Hotel/Self-Catering, Bergville, NORTHERN
DRAKENSBERG Just three hours from both
Johannesburg and Durban, and considered to be one of Southern Africa's
premier conference and holiday venues, Alpine Heath Resort allows you to
relax in the comfort of an exclusive mountain village nestled in the midst
of the Northern Drakensberg. The entertainment capital of the 'Berg,
Alpine Heath offers superb chalet accommodation, fine cuisine, an abundance
of indoor and outdoor activities and state-of-the-art conference facilities.
Accommodation comprises : 100 Chalets, that each sleep 6, 100 Fully equipped
three-bedroom chalets (1 x double bed and 2 x twin bed), 1 x 5-Sleeper
Chalet catering for the disabled. Chalets sleep a maximum of 6 people.
Chalets are self-catering with the option of having meals at the Hotel.
Little
Switzerland Hotel, Bergville, NORTHERN DRAKENSBERG Little Switzerland Hotel
is an unforgettable experience enhanced by the peace and tranquillity of
the majestic Drakensberg mountains. Savour the breathtaking views,
explore the lush fern-filled forests, seek out the exciting bird life and
delight in this ancient wilderness of flower decked foothills, bubbling
streams and cascading waterfalls, where old mysteries remain and the tiny
San left their priceless legacy of rock art. Undeniably a little bit of
heaven in a very special land. Little Switzerland is very popular
with South Africans as well as a growing fraternity of foreign tourists,
not only for the beautiful views and superb cuisine, but also for the hikes
and walks organised by the Resort to the top of the Amphitheatre (elevation
3050m). Set in a private estate of some 1700 hectares (+/- 4000 acres),
Little Switzerland is unrivalled by any other Resort in the Drakensberg.
Sandford
Park Country Hotel, Bergville, NORTHERN DRAKENSBERG Sandford Park …Started life
as a coach house. Nestled at the foothills of the uKhahlama - Drakensberg
Mountains, now a proclaimed World Heritage Site - a century old coach house
nestles peacefully amid natural springs and streams. Dating back
to 1850, Sandford Park started its life as a coach house offering food
and shelter for pioneers carving a road between KwaZulu - Natal and the
Transvaal. A Battle ground of fierce and bloody conflicts between Boer
and British troops for control of land and water, home for a British garrison
sent to relieve the town of Ladysmith, causing the historical battle of
Spioenkop, Sandford survived almost complete obliteration. Today, Sandford
Park Country Hotel has been restored to a place of complete relaxation
and tranquility. A two-and-a-half hour drive from Durban and three-and-a-half
hours from Johannesburg on a tarred road, Sandford is in a perfect position
to explore the Berg. Sandford is equidistant to all major attractions
such as the Royal National Park, Amphitheatre, Spioenkop Nature Reserve,
Cathedral Peak and all major Battlefield sites.
Alpine
Heath Resort (Three Cities Group), Hotel/Self-Catering, Bergville, NORTHERN
DRAKENSBERG Just three hours from both
Johannesburg and Durban, and considered to be one of Southern Africa's
premier conference and holiday venues, Alpine Heath Resort allows you to
relax in the comfort of an exclusive mountain village nestled in the midst
of the Northern Drakensberg. The entertainment capital of the 'Berg,
Alpine Heath offers superb chalet accommodation, fine cuisine, an abundance
of indoor and outdoor activities and state-of-the-art conference facilities.
Accommodation comprises : 100 Chalets, that each sleep 6, 100 Fully equipped
three-bedroom chalets (1 x double bed and 2 x twin bed), 1 x 5-Sleeper
Chalet catering for the disabled. Chalets sleep a maximum of 6 people.
Chalets are self-catering with the option of having meals at the Hotel.
The
Berghouse & Cottages, Self-Catering/B&B, Bergville, NORTHERN DRAKENSBERG Experience a mountain atmosphere
with breathtaking views, described as the 'Imax Views' of the Drakensberg.
This private destination on a 1600 acre estate enables you to reunite the
mind, body and soul, restore the essential “you”. Relax and soak up the
270 degree views of the Drakensberg Escarpment. Our prized feature
is the world famous Amphitheatre, part of a world heritage site. View the
second highest waterfall in the world during the summer; take in the breathtaking
sunsets as you sit feet up, wine glass in hand. Two categories of
accommodation await you: Self Catering: Comfortable, rustic, stone
and thatch dwellings. Two cottages, sleeping 8 people apiece, fully electrified.
Log fire places, and a braai/BBQ facility are there to complete the picture.
Patio furniture from which to take in our unique and special environment
is there for your comfort. Firewood is available.Excellent mountain views....
Top
Lodge, Self-Catering Cottages, NORTHERN DRAKENSBERG Tucked away high in the
Mont-Aux-Sources district of the Northern Drakensberg Mountains, situated
between and above "the Cavern" and "Alpine Heath" resorts, Top lodge offers
the ultimate getaway destination in a romantic, completely secluded mountain
wildlife sanctuary in beautiful natural surroundings. Our two stone-and-thatch
self-catering cottages, each designed to comfortably accommodate four people,
are charmingly appointed, beautifully comfortable and fully serviced. The
ground floor of the cottages is open-plan comprising lounge and fireplace,
bedroom area fitted with queen-size bed and adjacent bathroom with spacious
shower and hand basin, separate toilet and kitchenette. The upstairs loft
is fitted with two single beds, bathroom with toilet and basin, and built
in-cupboard. This design concept provides spaciousness, and the warmth
and enchantment of a fireplace in your own bedroom, making chilly winter
nights a unique experience!
Amazian
Mountain River Lodge Drakensberg, Underberg, SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG Amazian Mountain River Lodge
is situated at the House of Labyrinths in the Drakensberg. Relax
in the luxury quality four star honeymoon suites complete with spa baths
and underfloor heating, enjoy a de-stress aromatherapy treatment, sip cocktails
and savour the chef's gourmet creations. Our beautiful Labyrinth
is situated at the river and has a gazebo in the center. This venue is
ideal for a small romantic wedding or to renew your vows. When your
batteries are recharged, explore the beautiful mountain scenery on horse
back or by foot, go on a guided rock-art tour in the southern Drakensberg
World Heritage sites, or try your hand at wild-trout fishing. For
the more adventurous, there's a 4x4 trip up the legendary Sani Pass, para
gliding, quad bike picnics, or boating on the Umzimkulu river. At
the end of your stay walk the labyrinth and rediscover your true self -
or recommit your vows!
Bramleigh
Manor Country House, Nottingham Road, SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG Bramleigh Manor is a privately
owned and run guesthouse/ B&B in the vicinity of Nottingham RD , Natal
Midlands (Kwazulu Natal). It is surrounded by the outskirts of the Drakensberg
Mountains at an altitude of 1500m above sea level. It takes about
a 4,5 hours drive from Johannesburg or a 1,5 hours drive from Durban to
Bramleigh Manor. Off the beaten track, you will experience the peace
and tranquil environment amidst unspoilt nature. This thatched manor
house has 2 apartment-like suites (fully serviced) with own entrances and
patios overlooking the wonderful garden and the indigenous forest.
Bramleigh Manor offers: excellent birdwatching, with over 200 recorded
bird species Labeled forest walks in the indigenous forest, Trout fishing,
Scenic hikes, Relaxation in the peaceful surroundings, The perfect get
away, Daytrips on the Midlands Meander, Exploring Sani Pass and Underberg,
the Kamberg and Loteni reserve, Fair and reasonable rates.
Calderwood
Hall, Guest House, SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG Calderwood Hall is a four
star Victorian-style country house nestled in the foothills of the Southern
Drakensberg in KwaZuluNatal, South Africa. Epitomising timeless elegance,
both the drawing and dining rooms have five metre high steel pressed ceilings,
large fire places and large bay windows which overlook the beautiful gardens.
An impressive wooden staircase takes centre stage in the entrance hall
which also boasts a plethora of stained-glass feature windows. Every
meal feels like an occasion, when served in the Calderwood Hall dining
room. It is a spacious, elegant room with five metre high steel pressed
ceilings, built in dresser, huge fireplace, exquisite mural, yellowwood
floors and large sash windows which overlook the gardens. The drawing
room is tastefully decorated with an abundance of antique and unusual furniture,
large fireplace and sash windows overlooking the gardens. Soothe away tensions
as you relax in the calm ambience or enjoy a crackling log fire on winter
days.
Lythwood
Lodge, SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG Lythwood Lodge, set in the
Natal Midlands on the east coast of South Africa, provides the finest accommodation,
with individualised cuisine and magnificent facilities. Lythwood
Lodge, set in the Natal Midlands on the east coast of South Africa, provides
the finest accommodation, with individualised cuisine and magnificent facilities.
With the very best Africa has to offer, Lythwood Lodge is your premier
South African country lodge. Self Drive, Walking /Hiking, Honeymoon,
Country Lodge, Fishing, Photography, Birding, Cuisine, Golf, Day Excursions.
Lythwood Lodge reflects elegance and opulence in each of our rooms, and
are proud to be able to offer: Eleven double, en-suite bedrooms (seven
part of the main hotel, four adjacent), A main formal lounge, seating 20
guests comfortably, An intimate meeting lounge (or ballroom), seating 16,
The library & conference room, The P.O.S.H. Bar, An outside courtyard,
Two patios, and a Large baronial dining room.
Eagles'
Rock Mountain Retreat, Self-Catering/B&B, Underberg, SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG We welcome you to Eagles’
Rock, our beautiful piece of God’s creation set in the magnificent Southern
Drakensberg Mountains, near Underberg and Himeville. This pristine farming
area is one of South Africa’s premier trout fishing destinations. Our Retreat
is magnificently positioned on a mountain plateau overlooking the Umzimkulu
River and lush farmlands. Being owner run ensures a very warm welcome,
wonderful hospitality and an enjoyable holiday. Gavin, a practising
veterinarian and keen trout fisherman will gladly assist you in your quest
for that elusive 10 pounder. We also have a rowing boat available on our
stocked dam. Honeymoon in Kestrel or Falcon cottage or bring the
whole family and friends to Lammergeier log cabin or Sparrowhawk cottage.
Each cottage is fully equipped with stove, microwave, fridge, crockery,
cutlery and bedding. Deep-freeze available should you require extra space.
Enjoy winter evenings before a cosy log fire.
Galway
Cottage - 17 The Bend, Self-Catering, Nottingham Road, SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG Picture sitting on a lovely
timber deck overlooking the Drakensberg rolling hills and the meandering
Mooi River. In summer, green and lush; sheep grazing, horses galloping.
Picnics on the riverbed under the huge oak trees. Fly fishing at one of
the trout dams. In winter, cold with occasional snow-capped mountains.
The fireplace blazing, the underfloor heating simmering, and the spectacular
dark night sky bejewelled with the brightest stars. A little piece of South
African heaven no matter what time of the year. Galway cottage is
situated on the Bend Trout and Eco Estate, approximately 20 kilometres
outside of Nottingham Road on the well-known Midlands Meander. Galway
cottage is one of the upmarket, free-standing residential properties on
The Bend. The houses are all stone-clad (hence the origins of the name
Galway cottage) with sandstone quarried on the estate; each house must
conform to the development specifications. The cottage consists of two
bedrooms on the ground floor, each with their own full bathrooms, including
a slipper bath and large shower in each...
Ridgedale
Trout Farm, Self-Catering, Underberg, SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG Situated in a beautifully
picturesque area, on the Drakensberg Gardens Road, Ridgedale Trout Farm
offers visitors self-catering accommodation in 8 fully equipped and serviced
cottages, 4 overlooking the trout dam, for. Most of the cottages sleep
2 each, while one 8-sleeper is available for larger groups. For those
seeking seclusion and a little more luxury, Oak Tree Lodge is a stunning,
upmarket guesthouse offering 6 en-suite units on a bed and breakfast basis.
Together, the estate is ideal for company weekends away, with Management
staying at the Lodge, while staff can let their hair down at the Trout
Farm. In this way, up to 34 may be accommodated on a sharing basis.
For guests' convenience there is a large thatched function area with bar,
fridges, braai, fireplace and wooden deck overlooks the trout dam, which
is fed by a beautiful natural waterfall.
It
is said to have been inhabited since the Stone Age and has captivated the
imagination of every generation and culture, such as the San hunter gatherers
and the Zulus, to have laid eyes on it. The Boers were forced to negotiate
through this mountain range in 1837 during the great trek in order to reach
their "promised land" and they came up with the name Drakensberg.
