Drakensberg Gardens

Drakensberg Gardens, Drakensberg

In the southern foothills of the Drakensberg the Gardens Area might be, but the views from here of the towering peaks of the Dragon Mountains is pretty spectacular. This is the part of the Drakensberg that benefits from all the flowing rivers that gush down the sides of the mountains, making the valleys rich with rivers, lakes and streams, filled with some of the most gorgeous plants, flowers and grasses and rich with hikes and walks that drink in the views.

This part of the Drakensberg is not about tackling the peaks, but instead is a series of tough walks, including the five-day Giants Cup Hiking Trail (or at least the latter part of the hike, which ends above Drakensberg Gardens), and breathtaking scenery, surrounded by the staggering and beautiful mountains. The advantage is that this part of the mountain wonderland is closest to Durban and Pietermaritzburg, making it perfect for weekend breaks and quick getaways.

The Drakensberg Gardens Area is reached via the villages of Underberg and Himeville. In fact, Sani Pass and the Himeville Nature Reserve lie on the edge of the Drakensberg Gardens Area, both of which are well worth visiting if you are at all into trout fishing or bird watching – Sani Pass in particular.

In the Gardens Area is the Drakensberg Gardens Resort, the Garden Castle Nature Reserve and the Sehlabathebe National Park, and the area is filled with places to stay that all promise gorgeous views and access to the surrounding beauty that is the Gardens Area - named such for the richness of the plant life here.