Drakensberg Info

About Drakensberg

The Drakensberg Mountains are divided into 3 main regions, the Northern Drakensberg, the Central Drakensberg and the Southern Drakensberg. The Northern Drakensberg and the Central Drakensberg are the most popular areas with the most accommodation visitors, because they contain the best  variety of attractions and activities.
 

The Three parts of the Drakensberg Mountains

The Northern Drakensberg is the area from Olivier’s Hoek Pass, the Amphitheatre with Mont-Aux-Sources and up to Cathedral Peak. The village of Bergville situated in the Northern Drakensberg and is on the R74. The Central Drakensberg stretches from Cathedral Peak, Monk’s Cowl, Injasuthi and to Giant’s Castle. The village of Winterton is a gateway to the Central Drakensberg. The Southern Drakensberg lies to the south of Giant’s Castle.

When traveling from Gauteng and Mpumalanga to the Northern Drakensberg or the Central Drakensberg, it is best to take the N3 to Harrismith. From there take the N5 to Bloemfontein / Bethlehem for 4 km. Turn onto the R712 Phuthaditjhaba / R74 Bergville road, on your left. Drive here for 9 km and turn left onto the R74. This will lead you past Sterkfontein Dam, which is the biggest dam in the free state, down Olivier’s Hoek Pass to Bergville, or continue to Winterton.

When traveling from Durban, take the N3 road until you pass Estcourt and  Shell Ultra City, and take the first off ramp on your left marked Colenso / R74 Bergville.

In each of the three areas you will find accommodation varying from hotels, lodges, guest houses, B&B's, self-catering, camping and caravan sites. Many of the resorts also offer accommodation that includes dinner, bed and breakfast or self-catering. For those choosing the bed and breakfast (B&B) option, there are numerous restaurants available or if you prefer to make your own food choose a B&B that has braai (barbeque) facilities.

When planning your getaway to the Drakensberg, plan activities before you decide on your accommodation and pack accordingly. If you just want to get away from the hectic city life and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or if you  want to take part in the many activities the Drakensberg mountains has to offer, the Drakensberg is the place for you. It combines action, adventure, thrill, harmony, tranquility and beauty all in one place. You decide what you want to do!