As all travellers know, the journey is just as important as the destination. So an impromptu weekend trip with a girlfriend over Easter was bound to be fun. Traveling by car is exhilarating, with windows down and wind blowing through our hair , the open road was full of possibility.

We left Joburg early, hoping to miss the masses that converge on the KZN beaches each holiday season. Cruising down the N1 through the sun-drenched strips of cosmos the riotous explosion of colour of these attractive flowers adds cheer to the otherwise flat and drab landscape.

Meandering through the magnificent countryside, these are some of the spots that we recommend stopping at.

Warden

Situated on the Cornelis River, the town was laid out on the farm Rietvlei in 1912. I have always loved the particularly large Dutch Reformed Church here that can seat around 1750 people. This time we stopped and took a stroll down to the river, clean and flowing strong it was refreshing and a good spot to stretch our legs.

Sterkfontein Dam

Just outside Harrismith on the alternate route to Durban is the third largest dam in South Africa. The town of Harrismith was founded in 1849 and has the 3rd oldest golf course in the country. The dam is not only beautiful but also unusual , as almost all of the water is pumped up the escarpment from KZN. Be sure to stop at the look out and buy some clay crafted animals from a local artist.

The Border Post

The 85 year old stone farm house borders the provinces of the Free state and KZN. Perched at the top of the pass its an ideal location to stop for a scrumptious farm meal or even stay over in the guest house. Take a walk over the road to appreciate the sweeping views below.

Oliviershoek pass

Used as an alternate route to Van Reenen’s Pass, the winding pass overlooks the Northern Drakensberg. My memories from childhood have never left me on this section of the Drakensberg route. One winter we were the last car allowed through when the road was closed due to heavy snowfall. On many other occasions we would see the baboons playfully running along the rocks or even sitting on the roadside. History says that Piet Retief and his trek party climbed this pass on 19 October 1837.

Cathedral Peak

This 1930’s mountain resort is surrounded by some of the world’s most stunning scenery. With an abundance of wildlife , plants and rock art there is something here for everyone. A popular spot for guided daily hiking trails which includes seeing the Bushman paintings, there are also horse – rides, fly fishing and every imaginable outdoor sport. Drinking a hot cup of coffee at the base of the misty mountain range was sheer bliss.

Escort

A rather unattractive town established in 1848, the main economic activity is farming with a large bacon and processed food factory situated on the edge of the town. Some beautiful old sandstone buildings are scattered around and worth looking at. The green Alice bridge on the outskirts of town is rather ugly at first sight but while driving through it one suddenly appreciates its design and strength.

Umdloti beach

A tiny resort town on the Dolphin Coast only 25kms north of Durban, it is well known for the dolphins that swim in the shallow waters. Ideal for families with children because of the large natural rock pool and it’s comforting to know that there are shark nets in place and well trained life guards on duty. The 5km of of sandy beaches are enticing and as we soon found out, difficult to pull yourself away from. Even if we looked like a well cooked tomatoe.

Howick falls

These mesmerising falls are known to the locals as KwaNogqaza, the “ place of the tall one “ the 95 metre cascade falls into a pool of water, regarded by the Zulus with superstition and said to be the place of the spirits ancestors. According to legend a serpent – like creature lives at the bottom of the falls.I was interested to learn that Mark Twain visited the Hawick Falls hotel in 1896. The main attraction of this town one can also enjoy a Gorge Walk if you have time.

Anew Hilton hotel

The elegant and upmarket hotel is perfectly located on the doorstep of the Midlands Meander. We decided to spend our second night here experiencing old world charm in the 4 star building with its imposing Tudor lines.Established in 1936 , it has 97 spacious rooms and a gorgeous outdoor pool for those hot summer days.

Nelson Mandela Capture sight

While meandering one will see the large steel sculpture and visitor centre marking the arrest site of Nelson Mandela on the 5 August 1962. He went on to spend the next 27 years of his life in prison. This cultural and historical exhibition is the largest artwork using laser – cut metal beams in South Africa, affected by the sun changing its position above the monument. The effect of the tall beams on the ground also changes. The monument is located at the end of a winding path, which represents the long walk to freedom that he took towards his goal.

Lions river station

The old goods shed has been preserved and is now the spot to go if you want to buy some Nguni cow hides, amble amongst the gallery of sculptures and fine art or enjoy a steaming hot cup of Terbodore coffee. The name of the town , Lions River originates from the last lion shot in the area in 1856.

Piggly Wiggly

Situated on the beautiful property of Highgate Wine Estate , this distinctive outdoor shopping centre is the ideal breakfast stop. After a hearty meal we strolled around and couldn’t resist a nougat flavoured ice cream from Wedgwood ( undoubtedly the best ice-cream I have ever tasted ) With activities for young and old, we recommend fitting this into your travel agenda.

Nottingham road junction

Also known as Notties Junction, is a shopping and leisure centre in the heart of Nottingham road. Serving delicious country meals in a relaxed setting with a variety of shops like Chocolate heaven you won’t go home empty handed. Just down the road is the St John’s Gowrie Church, in April 1884 John King donated the grounds where the small wood and iron church would be built and opened in February 1885. A beautiful church ground to walk around and pay homage to those who lost their life during the World Wars.

The Pig & Plough
As a savvy road tripper I have learnt to savour the road side stalls, and quaint eating spots along the way. Just outside Winterton is this delightful restaurant. Sitting outside on the stoep I noticed the miniature train track above us that winds through the top of the building. Smelling the berg air this was our final tourist stop before heading home.

A fun filled weekend, we only touched on some of the beautiful places. What a beautiful country we have, so much to appreciate and such glorious weather
Go and hit the open road and see where your car will take you.