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SEE & DO
Hiking
The Southern Drakensberg offers a number of amazing hikes that can be accessed from Ambleside. They range from a relaxed 45 minute walk to the beautiful 3 pools to an arduous 21km hike to the top of the majestic Rhino Peak.
Named hikes include:
• Rhino Peak;
• Pillar Cave;
• Sleeping Beauty Cave; and
• Hidden Valley.
Here is more information on hikes in the Southern Drakensberg. Maps are available from The Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort Leisure desk.
Hiking
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain biking is growing in popularity and the Southern Drakensberg is fast becoming a recognized mountain biking destination. Information about club rides in the Underberg area can be found at Drak MTB Club. Sani Spoors maintain excellent commercial trails offering some of the best forest, river, and cattle single track riding in the area. They are based at the Olde Duck coffee shop on the Drakensberg Gardens Road. The Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort have developed a 12km single track around the property that caters for all skill levels.
Mountain Bike Trails
Golf
For the golf enthusiast, there are two wonderful options available:
• Drakensberg Gardens Golf Club has the only 18-hole course in the southern Drakensberg; and
• Underberg Country Club offers a 9-hole and 18-hole course.
Golf
Fishing
The area has a reputation as a prime destination for fly fishing, and offers many opportunities to catch that prized trout in spectacular surroundings. The Underbrerg-Himeville Trout Fishing Club controls some magnificent river and still-water locations. Castleburn and the Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf and Spa Resort also offer the opportunity to fish on their beautiful dams.
Fishing
Horse Riding
A wonderful way to experience the scenic splendor of the area is via horseback. Kids can enjoy pony rides at the Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf and Spa Resort while scenic outrides along the river and the surrounding areas can be booked at Lake Naverone, Castleburn, or the Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf and Spa Resort.
Horse Riding
Canoeing
Avid canoeists can be found throughout the summer months tripping the cool fresh waters of the Umzimkulu River. These waters host the Drak Challenge Canoe Race in January each year which is one of the highlights of the canoeing calendar. The river can be enjoyed throughout the summer months.
Canoeing
Tubing
Take advantage of the river in full flow over the summer months by enjoying the exhilaration of tubing down one of the nearby pristine rivers. We recommend arranging a tubing experience through Khotso Trails – info@khotoso.co.za.
Tubing
Birding
Enjoy the large number of birds that reside in the valley. Southern Drakensberg Tourism provides a great list of birds in the area. Challenge yourself to see as many species from the bird list as you can and even add a unique sighting to the list.
Birding
Sani Pass
Take a day trip up the magnificent and renowned Sani Pass. South Africa’s most iconic pass is an experience that should not be missed. The highest pub in Africa is located at the top of the pass and is a great spot to appreciate the magnificent views from the summit. It is recommended that you take a 4x4 vehicle up the pass. You can also book a tour at Sani Pass Tours.
Sani Pass
Local Destinations
Other Local Destinations and Activities
The Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf and Spa Resort is 3km from Ambleside and will ensure you don’t run out of activities for the whole family. Day visitors are permitted for a fee which can be arranged through the reception on 033 701 1355 or at the main gate. Please note during peak season the resort may restrict day visitor access. They offer the following:
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Animal farm;
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Swimming pools & water park – both heated and cool;
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Row boats;
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Tennis & squash;
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Bowls;
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Adventure golf;
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Playground, jungle gyms & bike tracks;
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Archery;
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Cricket nets;
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Restaurants; and
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Spa.
Major Events in the Area
January
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The Drak Challenge - Canoe race
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The Drak Descent - Mountain bike & trail run
March
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Splashy Fen Festival - Music festival
April
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Joberg2C - Mountain bike
May
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The Giants Cup - Trail run
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Sani2C - Mountain bike
July
November
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Sani Stagger - Trail run
Events
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