The Drakensberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known to the local Zulu people as uKhahlamba meaning “Barrier of Spears”, the Drakensberg forms a majestic semi-circular border between KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa and the inland mountain kingdom of Lesotho. Take to the mountains for hiking, abseiling or rock climbing, or explore the trails on your mountain bike. Become a history buff with a visit to the battlefields, museums and other historical sites in the region.
We absolutely love Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse as it’s the perfect location from which to explore the central part of the Drakensberg. This beautiful little property has a gorgeous family history to it which is still evident today, visible in the loving way the property is run and the incredible home-from-home feeling it has from the moment you arrive. The food here is arguably the best in the region, with the owner Richard’s personal awards racking up year-on-year including American Express Fine Dining Platinum Award, 5 Star Chef – Wine Magazine, AA Gold Achiever Award – the list goes on and on. If you are up for being active, this place is perfect but likewise if you’re up for doing nothing at all but being pampered and being in the most stunning spot in the Mountains, you’ve definitely picked the perfect spot!
Absolutely, particularly when you want to get those heart rates up and have some amazing shared experiences in the great outdoors! The Drakensberg Mountains are stunning in all directions, and the Central Drakensberg is no exception. Activities are boundless, with hiking trails perfect for those who are particularly active or routes which are easier for those who are less about going the distance and more up for a scenic adventure. You also have bikes you can jump onto, horses to lead you on stunning trails – or cast a line into one of the many rivers to catch a trout for supper! No matter what you do, you’ll have one of the best family holidays, one that you won’t forget in a hurry – we guarantee it.
When most South Africans and visitors speak of the Drakensberg, they refer to the Great Escarpment that forms the border between Lesotho and KwaZulu-Natal. The Drakensberg rises to more than 11,400 feet (3,475 metres) and extends roughly northeast to southwest for 700 miles (1,125 km) parallel to the south-eastern coast of South Africa. Just 2 hours north of Durban, it’s easy to combine with a wider KZN itinerary with no issue at all.
Interestingly, the Central Part features a great number of famous peaks which essentially make up one of the highest hiking places in the country including Champagne Castle, Cathedral Peak, Monk's Cowl and Giants Castle. The views from up there are staggering, with sheer rock faces, remarkable caves, waterfalls and incredible open spaces which we know you’ll just never forget. You can also enjoy an incredible horse ride, or fly over the Mountains in a helicopter, or enjoy an exhilarating bike ride. That plus you can mosey on over to the staggering age-old rock art which dates back over 3000 years and it just 20 minutes away from Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse.
It will take approximately 2 hours to get to the Central Drakensberg from Durban. Don’t forget, here at Tailormade Africa we design all of our itineraries entirely bespoke so if you would like for us to include a private driver/guide to take you up to your home in the Central Drakensberg we can of course with pleasure get that booked in for you. Or, if you are doing your own thing and would rather drive yourself, we will get that organised too. Nothing is too much!
Summer temperatures may range from 20°C during the day, often with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. Winter daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C and the night temperatures can drop to below 0°C. As with most mountain ranges, the weather can be slightly unpredictable but it really is one of the most magical places in the country and perfect for those who crave an outdoor adventure regardless of the time of year!
Nestled in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg, we are a luxury, gourmet lodge dedicated to sumptuous food and rustic luxury. If it’s legendary food, spectacular scenery and tranquillity you’re after, then Cleopatra is for you. Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse has earned global renown as a romantic gourmet getaway under Richard and Mouse Poynton... Learn more
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