Attractions

The following write-up is sponsored by Misty Peaks:

Attractions

There are a large number of fun filled activities for both adults and children alike,right on our doorstep. Within easy walking distance of the Drakensberg sun hotel there is a lake with boating and daily pleasure cruises as well as trout fishing,tennis and squash courts, bowling, swimming pools,video arcade,horse riding,chip and putt golf course. Live music is also provided during season in either the fighting trout pub or the restaurant.

In the nearby vicinity (5-10mins driving) there is a championship golf course at Champagne sports resort, birds of prey demonstrations at Falcon ridge,concerts at the world renowned Drakensberg boys choir school as well as quad biking, microlight flights and a number of shops selling clothing, health products, curios, art and crafts, jewellery and more.

The real reason to visit the Drakensberg mountain range is to enjoy it’s natural beauty and to do this one should try to do some hiking.

A number of  walks each offering there own special scenery have there starting points in Bergview.   Some are in age old indigenous forests dotted with streams, waterfalls and pools.   Others are in the open on the grassy plains and display panoramic views of the mountains.   No matter which one you do you will not fail to be amazed at how beautiful the area is and understand why it was awarded it’s world heritage status.

Serious and fit hikers can test there skills on a vast number of hikes into the “berg”.Maps are available detailing the routes as well as caves to overnight in.Like the sea, the berg is unpredictable so always ensure you fill in the mountain register before starting out on a long or difficult hike – it could save your life! Do not attempt these hikes on your own and always wear the correct clothing.

There is also an abundance of animal, plant and birdlife which attract people to the region. Of the 64 mammal species that occur in the berg 11 are endemic whilst of the 300 recorded bird species, 32 are endemic.There are 48 reptile species ( 25 of them snakes, 23 lizards ) and 26 species of frog.

Shopping

in the area includes hand made rugs and carpets, candles, jewelry, art, health products, bakery, farm stall/deli plus many others. The midlands meander route is approx 45 minutes away and is an easy day trip There are numerous places of interest on this route such as restaurants, arts and crafts , museums, plant nurseries and more. There is an abundance of birdlife in the area. The scenery is quite spectacular and worthy of its world heritage status which it has been awarded in two categories ie: cultural and natural. For a site to be included in the world heritage list it must meet one or more of the natural heritage property or cultural criteria. International recognition was given because of it’s unique richness of biological diversity, it’s endemic and endangered species, it’s superlative natural beauty as well as it’s masterpieces of human creative genius in the form of some 35 000 San rock art images.