The friendly farming town of Underberg lies at the feet of the mighty Drakensberg Mountains, in Kwa-Zulu-Natal’s Southern Drakensberg region. Surrounded by verdant swathes of green hills and plains, pretty mountain streams, and dramatic peaks, this is a popular destination among hikers, mountain bikers and photographers. There are also three pristine golf courses on offer. Underberg lies on the Sani Pass, also known as the ‘roof of Africa’, an incredible network of hikes winding into Lesotho from the Drakensberg Mountains (where thirsty travellers can also enjoy a drink at the highest pub in Africa). Arts and crafts enthusiasts will delight in the charming Underberg Pottery Studio and the quirky Funky Cow shop, where they can buy traditional Basotho blankets and souvenirs.
The small coastal town of Port St. Johns is known as the Jewel of the Wild Coast and is situated at the mouth of the Umzimvubu River in the Eastern Cape. Boasting pristine, white sandy beaches, a wide array of wonderful natural attractions, and fantastic fishing and surfing opportunities, the town is a favourite among families and those seeking a leisurely escape. The Selaka Nature Reserve offers a birdwatcher’s paradise and the chance to see the cute Cape clawless otters. Travellers looking for something a little different can head to the sulphur pools for a natural mud bath, which is a healing tradition among the local Pondo people, and rinse off in the calming river waters afterwards. Watching the natural wonder of the famous gap and blowhole on the beach presents an adrenaline-filled experience of the power of the sea and mother nature.
Running along the abundant Sundays River, just outside the Eastern Cape’s Port Elizabeth, the idyllic Sundays River Valley is an extraordinary area boasting several unique towns and attractions. Among numerous game reserves and nature parks, the famous Addo Elephant Park provides a wonderland of magnificent scenery and an abundance of wildlife including all members of the Big Five. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities along the river, including fishing, canoeing, and boat trips, and in the neighbouring dunes, try their hands at sandboarding. The area produces delicious, sweet citrus fruit, and in October, the valley is filled with orange blossoms. The 'Wildfees' brings Sundays River Valley to life in June with a celebration that includes concerts, wildlife expos, and stalls. Make sure to visit the popular Nanaga Farm Stall for its famous pies and deli items.
