Directory
1 Lotheni Nature Reserve. Situated in a remote section of uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park, it has trails with spectacular views. Entry is R40 pp. Chalets from R560 (sleeps three), camping from R180 per site. 033-702-0540, kznwildlife.com
2 The Himeville Arms. With a creaky wooden floor, and old hunting guns and trout sketches on the walls, it’s no surprise this pub first opened its doors in 1904. Pie and chips R55. 033-702-1305
3 Pennygum Rafting and Tubing. It provides rafts (twoand four-person) and tubes to take down the Umzimkulu River. There are two tours – 6km or 12km; the duration depends on the amount of water in the river. Tubing is R120 pp. 082-544-8627
4 Elands Rust. This large and comfortable stone house deep in foothills of the Southern Drakensberg has eye-popping views and storied antiques picked up all over the country, including assegaais, maps, enamel pots, chandeliers and work benches. R750 pp sharing (sleeps six). 082-990-0090, find it on Facebook.
Marutswa Forest.
The trail and boardwalk is 1,3km long, with detours and viewing platforms along the way. The trail ends in grasslands with views over the picturesque, rural landscape. Entrance is free.
6 Picklepot Café. Situated on a farm near Boston, with friendly dogs, a kids’ playground and hillside views, this is a lovely roadside stop for scones or lunch. Burgers R95. 072-190-5548
7 Lions River Country Cottages. Set in tranquil hills about 10 minutes outside Howick, the three cottages are clean and spacious, and have fireplaces. Duiker and waterbuck visit the manicured gardens.
From R500 pp sharing. 082-488-0209, lrcc.co.za
8 Itchy Feet SA. Gustav Greffrath is a passionate and experienced guide who takes guests hiking and rafting in the Drakensberg. The rafting season runs from November to April, depending on water levels. A day-long trip (about 5–6 hours) costs R650 pp and includes all equipment, guiding, transport from Winterton and lunch. 083-236-9010
9 The Bend Country House. A guest house on a 1 400-hectare estate, with antique furniture and spacious rooms. Self-catering cottages also available. There are 30km of trails for hiking or mountain biking and good fly fishing in the Mooi River.
From R334 pp sharing. 033-266-6371, thebend.co.za