The Drakensberg Mountains and deep reaching valleys beckon to adventurers, wanderers, and tourists alike. The momentous peaks prove to be a powerful reminder of nature’s wonder, while the many cascading waterfalls, emerald forests, and snaking rivers hold a sense of awe and magic.
But the grandeur of the Drakensberg can prove too intimidating for some to seek out alone. If you’re looking for some extra information, important knowledge, or just want some inspiration and guidance into this whimsical realm, let me shine the light and lead the way to the essence of Champagne Valley.
Where to go
If you’re coming from Durban, take the R600 towards the town of Winterton and then Champagne Valley. This trip should take about 2 hours with pleasant scenery and look out points all the way.
From Johannesburg, take the N3 and pass through Harrismith, Bergville, and Winterton to reach this South African World Heritage site. The total commute is about a 4-hour drive, peppered with cafes and mesmerizing vistas.
The 5 best places to stay in Champagne Valley: Drakensberg Accomodation
Champagne Sports – This resort, cradling the centre of Champagne Valley, boasts comfy accommodation, delectable cuisine, a pool, golf course, and commanding vistas from every angle. Stay in one of the luxurious rooms or choose an elegant self-catering cottage.
Champagne Castle Hotel – This renowned hotel resort is at the heart of Champagne Valley, neighbours exquisite hiking trails, and praises the landscape by welcoming an immerse natural atmosphere. The location is adorned with a gaming area, restaurant, wellness spa, petting zoo, horse riding, a large pool, and a lounge. Stay in one of the charming hotel rooms or opt for a spacious self-catering chalet.
Monks Cowl – This is the ideal accommodation for those wishing to rough it out a bit and really connect with nature. Monks Cowl camping and caravan site is perfectly located on the margins of Champagne Valley’s most speculator hiking trails. Set up your camp at either a powered or non-powered site, utilize the nearby braai areas or get a bite to eat at the café, and meander the mountain paths that pass myriad breath-taking waterfalls and geological wonder.
Mountain Splendour – This sublime sanctuary has it all. From log cabins to camping sites, it’s the ultimate family getaway location. Equipped with a verdant garden that beckons to the astounding views, there’s no limit when exploring the natural surroundings. There’s also a pool, tennis court, daily tea and scones, a playground, and entertainment centre to name but a few on-site activity locations.
Cathedral Peak Hotel – An extensive, lush paradise awaits. With luxury hotel rooms, top class restaurants and bars, a wellness centre, a pool, a gold course, and tennis courts, this resort is cloaked in elegance and refinement. But it’s not just the hotel that is attractive, but its location. Connecting to myriad incredible hiking and walking trails, you’ll be able to fully experience the Drakensberg and enjoy a touch of class.
Top 4 things to see in Champagne Valley
Drakensberg Boys Choir – This prestigious and renowned all-boys school pitches awe-inspiring melodies and harmonies. Hosting weekly concerts, watching the choir in action, hearing their soulful tunes, and dancing along to some of South Africa’s most beloved songs is not to be missed.
Kwazulu Weavers – Marvel at handcrafted local delights that create a profusion of culture, heritage, and centuries-old skill. With many artisanal item on offer, there’s something here that will cater to everybody’s taste. There is also a nursery and restaurant on site.
Raptor Centre – The Falcon Ridge Bird of Prey Centre is every bird lover’s paradise. Witness some of the Drakensberg’s most fascinating raptors and other predator birds in action, or get a closer look at one of the many spectacular owl species. Don’t worry, all birds are in a rehabilitation programme, not held against their will.
Reptile Centre – If you’re intrigued by insects and reptiles, from snakes and chameleons to tortoises and geckos, give this place a visit. Neighbouring the Raptor Centre, this safe and spacious enclosure harbours the weird and wonderful creatures that roam the Drakensberg floor and foliage.
Top 10 activities to do in the Drakensberg
El Mirador Airfield – The airfield is not just home to planes and helicopters, but delicious restaurants, such as the Champagne Bistro, the famous Drakensberg Brewery, the Chocolate Bar (which hosts free chocolate tasting), and a delightful arts, crafts, and artisanal farmers store. With so many tasty choices set in the midst of the towering peaks of the Drakensberg, why not try them all?
Hiking – The very reason adventurers and wanderers alike flock to this undulating and whimsical realm is for the nature. The Drakensberg is seemingly untapped and unhampered, left to flourish in any which way it seems fit. Amongst the picturesque power of the landscape lies sculpted paths that still lead you off the beaten track and into the wild. There are myriad hiking trails to choose from, catering for all fitness levels and ages.
If you’d like a taste of one of the most magical hikes in the berg, click here.
Canopy Tour - If you're looking for a way to both immerse yourself in the lush forests of the Drakensberg and embark on a thrilling adventure, this is the place for you. Neighbouring the Drakensberg Sun Resort and sitting along the R160 is the Canopy Tour base. Book your session and experience gliding through the leafy canopies on one of South Africa's fastest zip-lines.
White Water Rafting – The adventure centre lies just off the R600 past Thokasiza. Journey here to embark on a thrilling ride through the rivers.
Abseiling – Switch up your perspective with a hike up the mountains and taking an unconventional way down.
Hot Air Balloon – Soar above the valley and perhaps even higher than the giant peaks that surround you in a hot air balloon. Taking flight from the El Mirador Airfield, grab a coffee r hot chocolate and relish in an unforgettable experience in the Drakensberg skies.
Spa – There are two spas to choose from in Champagne Valley. The Wellness Centre at Champagne Castle Hotel is exquisite, efficient, and has a wide range of luxurious treatments on offer. Alternatively, travel a little further out of town to Thokasiza where an upstairs spa will treat you like royalty.
Horse Riding / Golf / Cafes – Nestled within the valley’s verdant blanketed margins lies an array of exciting locations that form the home base to many activities. Make your way to Champagne Castle Hotel to go on an outback ride through the forests and escarpments of the Drakensberg. Visit Champagne Sports Resort to enjoy a game of golf or take the family to mini putt-putt. Finally, there are a range of cafes that pepper the valley for when you’re feeling peckish either before or after your activity.
What to pack when travelling to the Drakensberg.
- Hat or cap.
- Sunblock.
- Closed shoes.
- Hiking boots or running shoes.
- Sandals.
- Adventure/exercise clothing.
- Leisure wear.
- Binoculars.
- Camera.
- Water bottle.
- Swimming towel.
- Backpack.
- Jacket.
- Raincoat.
