There are a number of lodges, privately owned, in South Africa that maintain their own trails. The Drakensberg Mountain Retreat is one such establishment. It straddles a number of farms in the region with many domestic and wild animals roaming the land. This trip in general has allowed us to observe a variety of birds and walk near and alongside many animals. It has added to the enjoyment of the hiking experiences very much indeed. Of course, careful placement of feet is always vital for safety and in this type of environment, good footings help to keep the boots relatively clean.
One of our more ambitious climbs on 'New Beginnings 'Trail.
The backdrop of the Drakensberg from our position stretches from beyond the Sentinel in the north
to Cathkin Peak in the south.
Cathkin at sunset, one of our favorite icons.
The editor through the dry waterfall on the tough 'New Beginnings' trail.
We expected proteas mainly in the Cape...got a treat here as well.
The Drakensberg Mountain Retreat is positioned on the border of KwaZulu Natal and the Free State. It gives one a feel of colonial times, like a land stuck in a much earlier period. It's position is unique in that it has a view of the Drakensberg mountains that we have never seen previously. It looks as if the range is one straight line of mountains. Of course, it's an optical illusion but nevertheless an incredible sight. The tranquility of the area provides one with the feeling of living in a different realm, a different period or age. Add the type of accommodation, services and people into the mix, not forgetting some really tough hiking opportunities, and one departs with a tinge of regret knowing one is returning to the 'old reality'. Elna, the manageress, commented that she feels she lives at the entrance to heaven. She'll get no argument from us.
A body coming out of a ravine...one of our toughest hikes.
'From the terrace', a view from a remarkable setting, Drakensberg Retreat.
Sunrise at the retreat.
A rough and tough but not tumble day.
And then the first rope snapped.
Sunset at the Drakensberg.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
Stampede! High ground, Girl!
1 comment:
You folks have captured the essence of the area, from the misty morning to the herd of cattle to the steepness and ruggedness of the terrain. It's always good to see my back yard featured alongside so many of the beautiful and memorable spots and sites in other parts of the world. This might have been a very tough expedition, but your enjoyment shines through.
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