 |
HIKING & RUNNING
From gentle strolls next to streams and in open fields, exhilarating runs along tranquil gravel roads to strenuous hikes to the Drakensberg mountain peaks, the Wartrail/New England area offers magnificent hiking and running. Each valley in this region is completely unique, and deserving of exploration. The Wartrail Skywalk, a four day guided hike is offered for the serious hiker. Link to more Hiking information
|
 |
FLY-FISHING
The Eastern Cape Highlands boasts some of South Africa's best fly-fishing waters with over 200km of trout-filled rivers to explore. The quiet districts of Wartrail and New England offer highly rated small, strong streams with crystal clear water and strong trout. Many of the rivers also offer yellowfish during summer months. More about Fly-Fishing
|
 |
HORSE RIDING
If hiking up the peaks sounds like hard work, then why not hoof it up the mountain and let our lovely horses do the hard work for you! Rides through spectacular scenery are available for all levels of rider. Trips range from a couple of hours to an awesome three day trail to the Lesotho border area near Lundean's Nek and Telle Falls. More about horse riding
|
 |
SNOW SKIING & WINTER FUN
A winter wonderland - the Wartrail / New England valley experiences on average 4 or 5 snowfalls a year between June & August. Snowball fights, skiing, bum boarding or snowboarding are just some of the ways you can experience the thrill of being in the snow. With good access to Tiffindell Ski Resort, the Wartrail and New England districts offer an affordable and homely option to enjoy the winter months. More about snow skiing
|
 |
4x4 TRAILS & SCENIC DRIVES
The spectacular mountainous terrain of the Eastern Cape Highlands is the perfect setting for scenic drives that provide fun for the whole family. The region's 8 spectacular mountain passes, including the highest pass in South Africa, offer breathtaking views and quaint villages. The more adventurous can opt to test their vehicles and driving skills on off road trails including steep mountain tracks and challenging river crossings. More about 4x4 Trails and scenic drives
|
 |
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Mountain bike tracks abound in these farming districts and there is a wide choice of terrain, from easy pedalling along scenic district roads, to more adventurous off-road single track and jeep paths. Enjoy the beauty of your surroundings while cycling at your own pace. Mountain bike hire and guided tours are available. More information about MTB Trails
|
 |
ROCK POOLS & WATERFALLS
The mountainous terrain and the regions' high rainfall, Wartrail/ New England has some of the most beautiful rock pools and waterfalls. Watching the water cascade down basaltic cliffs and swimming in the crystal water of these pools is an experience to remember. Enjoy a picnic by the river in summer, followed by a soak in a 'Mountain Jacuzzi'. More about rock pools
|
 |
RIVER RAFTING
In the summer our rivers flow well and the water is warm - perfect for a scenic day's paddling. Join us on our inflatable river rafts for an unforgettable experience on the beautiful Kraai river. We can offer day trips and overnight excursions, with the trips varying in length according to your needs and the river flow. You will travel through beautiful gorges, draped with willow trees and will have the opportunity to stop and admire the bird life, caves and rock art sites. More information about river rafting.
|
 |
MOTORBIKE & QUAD TOURS
The terrain of the Eastern Cape Highlands is the perfect training ground for The Roof or just plain old trail riding if you prefer. Climbing up to altitudes of 3000m, the challenging terrain provides excellent technical riding, while the length of the trail tests your stamina. Bring your own bikes for rides of a lifetime. Trails can be guided and range from easy to difficult & technically challenging. Family rides include plenty of stops along the way for refreshing dips in the plentiful rock pools & picnic lunches. More about bike and quad trails
|
 |
BIRDING & WILDLIFE
With 220 species of birds recorded in this montane environment, Wartrail/New England is a haven for bird lovers and you will often see cranes, eagles, Secretary Birds and vultures as you drive around the area. 'Specials' include the Bearded Vulture (Lammergeier), Black Eagle, Ground Woodpecker and Orange-breasted Rockjumper. Bird lists are available. Resident mammals include Mountain Reedbuck, baboons, porcupine, dassies, jackal and mongoose. More about birding and wildlife
|
 |
GARDENS & WILD FLOWERS
Wartrail / New England is well known as an area that has some of the most beautiful gardens, many of which have been featured in Garden and Home magazine over the years. Garden tours are available and in November 2010 the region is holding its first 'Open Gardens' festival. The pristine grasslands and varying levels of altitude produce a wide variety of wild flower species, including many rare alpine specimens. Wild Flower tours are available. More about gardens and wild flowers
|
 |
ROCK ART
The rock art of this region is rated as some of the best in the world, the San being the first people of South Africa and especially this area. There are a wide variety of paintings, ranging from the older 'classic' phase, right up to a couple of hundred years ago, many in excellent condition. Experience this art as it was, in this truly unique and dynamic landscape, with its meandering rivers, waterfalls, rock pools and dramatic rock formations. Guided tours are available and are recommended to attain a deeper appreciation of the complexity of this fascinating and sacred art. More about Rock Art
|
 |
HISTORICAL INTEREST
The beautiful areas of Wartrail & New England are fascinating in history and culture. From Dinosaur fossils to the famous railway reverses, early settler cave-houses to the exceptional San Rock Art sites that have drawn archaeologists from around the world. Most of the families here are descendants from the first settlers in the area, and have many interesting anecdotal stories to tell. A private museum with old agricultural implements and artifacts can be seen by prior arrangement. More about the history of Wartrail & New England
|
 |
RELAXATION
The mountains are well known for their healing ability and the incredible beauty and peace of the surroundings are conducive to total mind and body renewal. Spend your time reading in the shade of a tree, listening to the bird calls, or lie back in one of the 'jacuzzi' rockpools with the mountains soaring around you. More ways to kick back and relax |
 |
STAR-GAZING
Because of the pristine environment and lack of pollution, stargazing is a must for everyone due to the clarity of the night skies, especially during the winter months. Star maps are available for those with specific interest or just lie back and watch the universe slowly unfolding! More about star-gazing
|
 |
FARM ACTIVITIES
Most of the accommodation in Wartrail and New England is based on working farms. There are usually opportunities to participate in the numerous seasonal activities: picking berries, milking cows, herding cattle on horseback, feeding chickens & orphan lambs, shearing sheep, making hay and catching a ride on a tractor. More about farm activities
|
 |
RASPBERRY PICKING
Pick as much as you can of this delicious fruit, and enjoy the surrounding mountain countryside. The raspberry- picking season is from late January to early May depending on frosts. Picking by prior arrangement only. Wild Brambles can also be enjoyed during the autumn months. More about raspberry picking
|
 |
HUNTING & WING SHOOTING
During winter months, the following game is available to hunt in the area on farm plains and up to 10 000ft - Blesbok, Grey Rhebuck & Mountain Reedbuck. Wing shooting for Grey wing partridge and guinea fowl is also available. Hunting in the Eastern Cape Highlands provides a challenging hunt for those who can brave the crisp, cold weather, are physically fit and enjoy being outdoors experiencing nature. More about hunting and wing shooting.
|