Sometimes we need to escape from the daily grind and get away to open spaces and fresh air. When we need our “fix”, we head for the Drakensberg Mountains! This stunning natural wonder is the perfect destination for your next getaway too. With breathtaking views, endless hiking trails, and delightful accommodation options, you’ll be spoiled for choice. So pack your bags and join us on a 6-day adventure, covering 383 km, in the heart of the Drakensberg. Get ready to leave your worries behind and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of this magical place. Let’s go!
Day 1: Winterton to the Champagne Valley
We’ve started this road trip at Winterton. If you are coming from Gauteng, then simply head south along the N3. Take exit 230 and continue on the R600 to Winterton. The journey is just under 4 hours from Johannesburg.
It is a shorter trip from Durban, taking only 2,5 hours. Head northwest on the N3, taking exit 179 just after Estcourt.
- Start your road trip in Winterton and head towards Champagne Valley. It is a short but beautiful drive.
- Why not stop at the Valley Bakery for a delicious lunch?
- Take your time to explore the area and enjoy the stunning views of the Drakensberg Mountains.
- Stay overnight in one of the accommodation options in the area.
Days 2 + 3: The Champagne Valley and Monks Cowl Hike
There is so much to see and do in the Champagne Valley that you will want to stay here for a couple of days, maybe more.
- Visit Monks Cowl Nature Reserve and hike one of the many trails in the area. It is a stunningly beautiful reserve, with walks to Sterkspuit Falls and Nandi’s Falls. Our favourite is the 2,5 km hike to the top of the Sphinx, passing Crystal Falls on the way. Once at the top, you can enjoy a picnic before returning the way you came or proceeding along the path if you would like a longer walk.
- Remember to sign the hikers’ register at the gate when you leave for your hike and when you return.
- Always pack a hat and sunscreen as the altitude is high, and the air is thin. Take lots of water.
After your hike, you may wish to spend the next day engaging in other activities in the Valley. Here are some other places to visit and activities to enjoy:
- Drop in at the Berg Air Lifestyle Centre. Be sure to go straight to The Chocolate Bar, where you can taste a sample of their range of delicious artisanal chocolate bars manufactured right there in the Drakensberg.
- If craft beer is your thing, walk over to the Drakensberg Brewery pub, and taste some of the locally made beers accompanied by cold meat and cheese platters.
- Helicopter Flip over the Champagne Valley: Helicopter flips are extremely popular. you can choose from those offered at Dragon Peaks, namely Berg Flying, or Sky Adventures which operate from the Drakensberg Brewery.
- Drakensberg Canopy Tour: This thrilling experience for all you adrenalin junkies features Africa’s first elevated rock face walkway, complete with a mix of cliff face and treetop platforms, as well as exhilarating cable slides soaring up to 60 meters high. Not for the faint-hearted!
- Drakensberg Boys Choir: This world-famous choir has its school situated right in the middle of the Champagne Valley. During term time, they perform on Wednesday evenings at the school, so if you are there, book a concert. You will not be disappointed.
- Falcon Ridge Bird Of Prey Centre: The centre rehabilitates raptors that have been injured and offers a fantastic bird show at various times of the day.
Day 4: Amphitheatre in the Northern Berg
- Travel back to Winterton and drive on the R74 to Bergville, continuing on to the Northern Berg.
- Stop at one of the many farm stalls and indulge in some delicious local produce.
- Stay overnight in one of the accommodation options in the area.
- Head to Royal Natal National Park for an afternoon hike or a gentle stroll.
Day 5: Northern Berg and Chain Ladder Hike
- If you are in the mood for a hike to the top of the Berg, to the source of the Tugela, then pack a light snack, jump in your car, and drive around the Berg to the Sentinal Car Park (about 2 hours). From there, it is a fairly easy hike to the start of the chain ladder climb. There are two chain ladders, each consisting of about 50 rungs.
- Make sure to take in the stunning views from the top, stay as long as you can, and watch for inclement weather.
- Return to your lodgings exhilarated and exhausted!
- If you don’t fancy going on a hike, find a spot with a great view of the Amphitheatre, and read a great book.
- Be sure to appreciate the beautiful night skies and do some stargazing.
Day 6: Return to Winterton
- Start your journey back to Winterton and enjoy the scenic drive.
- If you’re not quite ready to head home, stop in at the Cathedral Peak Wine Estate for a bite to eat and stock up on your stash of wine.
After spending 6 days in the Drakensberg, you feel rejuvenated and refreshed, ready to face the hustle and bustle of everyday life again.
