Situated on the banks of the Klip River in KwaZulu-Natal, Ladysmith is a historic town known for its rich heritage and important role in South Africa’s past. During the late 19th century, the town prospered as a key stopover for gold and diamond prospectors travelling to the Transvaal and Kimberley. Ladysmith is perhaps best known for its role in the Anglo-Boer War, during which it endured a famous 118-day siege. Today, visitors can explore numerous historical sites, museums and battlefields that offer insight into this significant period of history. Surrounded by scenic landscapes and located along routes leading to the central and northern Drakensberg, Ladysmith also serves as a convenient and worthwhile stop for travellers exploring the region’s mountains, nature reserves and cultural attractions.
The Drakensberg Mountains in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, are an imposing wall of rock that rises to 3000m, creating untold inspiring views and hikes.
Known to the Zulus as the Barrier of Spears and to the first European settlers as the Dragon's Mountains, the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg is 1 of 8 South African UNESCO World Heritage sites, both for its significance as a natural resource and for the heritage of the San Paintings. For 1000s of years they hosted the San people who left their record on the walls on numerous sandstone caves. Today most of the Drakensberg is protected as a National Park and is a major attraction for the lover of the outdoors.
Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve forms part of the Central Berg. (ITT)
