Each year thousands of local and international tourists head to the Valley of 1000 Hills to enjoy its arts and crafts, sports facilities, cultural villages and restaurants. Shouldn’t we be doing the same?
7 things every local should do:
- Enjoy a drink with the stunning Valley of 1000 Hills stretched out in front of you.
- Take a cultural or historical tour. You’ll be amazed by what you discover!
- Indulge in lovingly-made craft beer.
- Get your pulse racing on two or four wheels, from mountain bikes to quad bikes and game vehicles.
- Play a round of golf at one of the great courses in the Upper Highway area.
- Invest in world-renowned local arts and crafts, from beaded jewellery to pottery and glassware.
- Visit the Indigo Skate Camp in the Isithumba Valley. Former visitors include Tony Hawk!
Stretching from Kloof to Cato Ridge, the Valley of 1000 Hills Experience incorporates so much more than you might imagine! From fabulous conference facilities and accommodation to esteemed artists’ studios, craft centres, quaint pubs and exceptional viewpoints, there’s something for everyone.
So what could you be missing out on? Let’s start with a romantic journey on an Umgeni Steam Train that puffs, toots and winds its way through the hills. It’s fabulous for kids of all ages, offering a new perspective on our beautiful landscape. The train travels from Stokers Arms in Kloof to Inchanga Station on the last weekend of each month.
There’s a wide variety of restaurants and cafes along the 1000 Hills route, inspired and staffed by talented chefs from our very own 1000 Hills Chef School. You’ll find culinary delights for every occasion, and in a kaleidoscope of locations.
If the bush is what you yearn for, Phezulu Safari Park, just 10 minutes from Hillcrest, offers regular game drives with the chance to see wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, caracal, duiker, bush pig and more.
Delve a little into our local art scene and you’ll find a wealth of painters, potters and glassblowers. Many of these skillful artists have regular open days and invite visitors to their studios, often in the most incredible settings.
Our rivers and dams are exciting obstacle-courses and provide the perfect venue for a wide range of water sports, as well as great camping spots.
Every year our streets, rivers and pathways are lined with spectators, cheering athletes on as they tackle some of the world’s most challenging sports events, including the Duzi Canoe Marathon and the Comrades Marathon. Not to mention the superb equestrian events, golf tournaments, swimming, rugby and more!
As the mist hangs low in the valley on a lazy Sunday afternoon, young and old pull on their jackets to keep out the chill, sip on wine and relax while listening to music in the park at Makaranga. It’s an experience second to none.
So, what are you waiting for? Start your own journey through the Valley of 1000 Hills. You won’t be disappointed!
1000 Hills Tourism Information Centre, Old Main Road, Botha’s Hill: 031 777 1874