Archive for KwaZulu Natal

Jan
29

The Northern Coast of KwaZulu Natal

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KwaZulu Natal’s North Coastline, popularly referred to as The Dolphin Coast, stretches from Zimbali, an eco and golf estate to the grand Tugela River. Its balmy oceans are home to the common bottlenose dolphin which is often found frolicking in the surf close offshore all year round, whilst the tropical, rich coastline features a great many remote bays, golden shores and beautiful homes.

Sections of natural coastal forest give way to never-ending rolling hillsides covered with fields of sugar cane, which stretch out to the interior. A distinctive mixture of luxurious resorts and reasonably priced holiday lodgings complement eye-catching beaches and culturally diverse attractions to make this holiday location a glittering jewel.

The North Coast presents truly living Zulu Culture, bursting colour, song and dance. On 24th September every year, this holiday destination comes to life to celebrate Heritage Day in a special way. This day reminds the Zulu nation of their unique history and the importance of leadership. The participants are usually seen clad in their customary attire exhibiting their origins.

The North Shoreline also boasts a rich cultural blend of Eastern, African and European influences where curry seafood dens stand next to traditional Zulu dancing and colonial-style hospitality as the primary sight-seeing opportunities. Situated just a little inland is KwaDukuza, burial site of the remarkable King Shaka Zulu, and Groutville, home of Albert Luthuli, Africa’s first Nobel Peace laureate, with monuments and an intriguing museum bearing testimony to his part in South Africa’s historical past.

A sizeable Indian local community sees their home in this region, allowing visitors to take pleasure in their amazing temples and sample their culinary pleasures, such as pineapple-on-a-stick, covered in tangy seasoning. River quad biking trails, horse riding, a sugar cane farm museum, children’s Animal farm and crocodile farms all vie for space on the leisure calender.

Coastal microlight excursions, superb fishing and the possibility to swim with the dolphins add to the extensive selection of unforgettable holiday activities available. Close proximity to Durban and the Big Five game reserves of KwaZulu Natal make this holiday destination a amazing choice for a holiday central to infectious vibe or rugged adventure – simply take your pick.

Nestled away in the stunning Drakensberg mountain range in the Kamberg Valley near Giant’s Castle, you will discover Cleopatras Mountain Farmhouse. This outstanding Gourmet mountain lodge is 200km from Durban airport and 450km from Johannesburg airport. I drove there from Johannesburg and the trip took me about five hours down the N3 toll road before turning off at Mooi River. From there, it was less than 30 miles and even though the directions were very good, it is better to make this part of the journey by daylight to make it simpler to pick up the landmarks that are referenced in the map.

In the end, I showed up but because it was dark, I was not able to thoroughly appreciate the beauty of its position until the following day. I’d also appeared far too late for the six course evening meal which was a pity. You will find eleven rooms at Cleopatras and every one is unique. I was checked into room two, the Scandinavian suite and it was eye-catching and fairly spacious. It had been a long day and so I soon found myself in my bed that had been warmed by an electric quilt and went to sleep.

I got up early on as I had a long drive to the Zulu Battlefields ahead of me but first of all I wanted to have a look round. The early morning mist hung about the surrounding mountains and I could very well see what a picturesque spot it was. I made my way to the breakfast area where a wonderful three course meal was served to set me up nicely for the busy day ahead. The chef at Cleopatras preps his meals with flavour as his primary aim and I have to say that I wasn’t let down. Actually, I don’t remember the last occasion I was offered such a great breakfast.

Next there was time for a quick trip up to the top of the mountain though the view would be limited. Even so, it was clear enough to see that for anybody wanting to spend some time out-of-doors and take pleasure in terrific food, Cleopatras is highly recommended as a place in the UKlahlamba Drakensberg to escape to for a few days. Activities include things like trekking in the Highmoor Nature Reserve, horseback riding, horse stud trips & local adventures, fishing, helicopter rides, Bushman rock art, Crane rehabilitation centre.

If you want to head out driving during the day, there are in excess of 180 visits along the Midlands Meander from wood turners, to potters, to cheesemakers, to weevers and much more.