Plan your trip
DAY ONE
Just chill. This weekend is all about sipping red wine, taking panoramic shots from your doorstep and cuddling up in front of the fire.
STAY HERE
The self-catering cabins at Highlands Mountain Retreat are fully equipped (and supercosy in winter, with oil heaters, electric blankets and fireplace) so just bring all the food you’ll need. There’s a braai on your stoep with the best views in the park. Collect the keys from Glen Reenen Rest Camp; it takes 15 minutes to get here via a game drive on Oribi Loop. From R1 400 for two. Conservation fees R44 pp a day. 058-255-0962
DAY TWO
There really is little reason to wake up early if you’re on a romantic break. However, if cabin fever strikes, head for the vulture restaurant (a 10-minute drive away). If you’re a couple of die-hard twitchers, pack a flask and sit a while. There are five day hikes (no extra cost) in the park that depart from the Glen Reenen Rest Camp. For exceptional views, head up the Brandwag Buttress (one hour) and, if the weather is good, tackle the four-hour Wodehouse Peak trail. In the afternoon, slowly follow the park’s two game-drive routes, the Oribi Loop (4,2 kilometres) Blesbok Loop (6,7 kilometres). Keep eyes peeled for eland herds on the mountain slopes and secretary birds hunting in the long grass.
DAY THREE
Before you leave, squeeze in another short walk and experience the forested corners of these red mountains. Echo Ravine is a gentle stroll that takes just 45 minutes and is one of the more picturesque routes. The mountains wrap almost entirely around you, thanks to centuries of weathering, and water drips from the cliffs in the rainy season. If it’s hot, cool off in the natural rock pool behind the Glen Reenen Rest Camp before heading for home.