Nov 19, 2019 | Things to in and around Nelspruit
The Queen Rose Trail is one of the most popular outdoor adventures the small, historic town of Barberton has to offer. Just a short drive away from Nelspruit, the trail is fairly easy to hike and it offers some of the most spectacular views.
The trail starts in the mountains east of Barberton, deep in the Nelshoogte Forest Reserve. This is a backpack trail that takes about two days to complete and covers around 21 km. It goes without saying that you will need to be fairly fit and have a good pair of hiking boots (mountain bikes are also an option).
The Nelshoogte Nature Reserve is set between Barberton and Badplaas, and the Queen Rose Trail is said to be the most scenic trail in the country.
The landscape in the area is lush between the mountains of the eastern escarpment where the Queens and Montrose Rivers meet. It’s on the banks of the Montrose and Queens Rivers that most of the hike takes place. Here the hike will take you from riverine forest to waterfalls and pools, all amongst a variety of plants and indigenous trees, among them some fine specimens of Matumi, Mingerhout and False Horsewood trees.
This hike is unique in that it is two separate hikes and you can choose to do either first. One trail is known as the Montrose section and is 13 km that starts with an incline but is mostly downhill. You will start hiking uphill and go through a pine plantation before descending to Alvin’s Falls. From there you will be hiking along the river bank, which can be a bit slippery in places at certain times of the year, before reaching open grasslands which will take you to Makesh Hut. Makesh Hut has a pool and the hut itself is solar powered. There is also a flush toilet and a gas shower. Braai facilities are provided, but wood has to be bought.
The other section is known as the Queens River section and this trail is 8 km, mostly uphill. This trail takes you up through indigenous bush and then along a riverine forest that goes along the valley. In the summer this trail can be a rather warm walk as it does get very humid. Despite the humidity, this is a most enjoyable walk that includes a suspension bridge and “foefie” slide for the brave. And when the heat gets to you, there are several pools along the way to cool off in.
Nelspruit Lodge offers some of the best accommodation in Nelspruit and we are the ideal starting point from which to go hiking. Our accommodation ranges from incredibly affordable to something a little more extravagant. Have a look at our accommodation to find out more.
Nov 10, 2019 | Things to in and around Nelspruit
Summer is in full swing in the city, and with the humid days and the occasional refreshing downpours comes the plague of mosquitoes that every Nelspruiter simply cannot stand. It is not just that as you’re trying to get to sleep a mosquito will play the song of their people in your ears and instantly have you alert; mosquitoes can be a health hazard.
Everyone knows that Malaria is quite a common illness and that it is not unusual for those living in Nelspruit to get infected. Passed on by the mosquito, Malaria is easily prevented and easily treated, but it is still deadly if it is left untreated. This means, prevention is without a doubt better than cure and in this quick guide, we’ll be sharing few tips on how to stay safe this summer while staying at our Nelspruit accommodation.
- Determine how at risk you are
Even though Nelspruit is in a malaria area, it is by no means the most at risk area. A visit to places further north and to the east are far more likely to result in a malaria infection if you are not too careful. Start your prevention by knowing how at risk you are.
- Stick behind a screen at night
While mosquitoes are not uncommon during the day, they are far more likely to become bothersome at night. This naturally means you are far more likely to become infected with Malaria at night. To stay safe, make sure that you stay behind a screen at night. This means if you are at an outdoor venue, find a place where there is some sort of cover. Our accommodation in Nelspruit has enough screening to keep the mosquitoes away.
- Use a repellent
Mosquito repellent can be bought in just about all of the local shops and is best applied on the skin in the evenings and in the night. Keep it close, as it can be reapplied whenever necessary.
- If you can, wear long sleeves
In the heat of the Lowveld, where the heat hangs around well into the night, it is quite impossible to wear long sleeves but they are one of the best ways to prevent mosquitoes from taking a bite. Wearing long pants as well as socks will also go a long way towards preventing Malaria infection.
- Sleep under a net
A common feature in most Nelspruit accommodation is the “mosquito net” a cover which goes over the bed and prevents mosquitoes from getting close enough to bite you. Nets can be sprayed with a repellent for extra prevention.
If you are headed to an area that will place you at high risk of infection, it might be best to consult with your doctor and get preventative medication. Symptoms can take up to three weeks to present themselves, so if you think you might be infected it is best to go to your doctor to get tested.
Oct 13, 2019 | Things to in and around Nelspruit
Zongororo Trail
The Zongororo Trail is a 7 km hike about 5 km to the east of Waterval Boven. Waterval Boven was established in 1898 as a supply depot for the railway link and is situated on the escarpment. The railway line in itself is quite a spectacle as it doubles back and forth through tunnels in an effort to reduce height.
The trail begins just across the Elands River at the Elands Waterfall. The trail then heads up taking you through a spectacular indigenous forest. Once through the forest, the trail heads into open mountain grassland and contouring for about a kilometre. On the way, you will cross two non-perennial streams. For the next kilometre, the trail ascends and takes you to the top of a plateau. At this point, the trail gets very rugged. After carefully negotiating this section of the hike, the reward is a bird’s eye view of the Elands Valley. After a break at that point, it’s a final push upwards to reach the highest point of the trail. The ascent is steep but the views are well worth it.
Just when you think the view cannot get better, the trail descends gradually to a rocky outcrop. From there you get a splendid view of the valley and the adjacent mountains. To get back to the starting point the descent is a steep two-kilometre hike.
Along the way there is no drinking water, so be sure to take along plenty as it can get hot out there in the summer months. It is also advisable to wear a hat and please don’t forget the sunscreen.
Uitsoek Hiking trail
On the N4, take the Sabie/Sudwala turnoff, 10 km after the road becomes dirt, turn right at the Uitsoek Hut Sign and continue till you reach the Uitsoek Forest Plantation. Once there you can make your choice of which trail you would like to take. The day trails are Bakkrans or Beestekraalspruit. There is also an overnight trail, Houtbosloop.
Bakkrans Trail
With this trail, you start by heading out into the pine plantations. From there you head into the gorges and the landscape changes to indigenous scrub forest. Along the route, you will cross several small tributaries and also pass the Bakkrans Waterfall.
The trail is about a distance of 11 km and can be moderately difficult. Remember to bring water, a snack, hat and sunscreen as it can get hot.
Beestekraalspruit Trail
You start this trail with a gentle climb through the pine plantations and continue climbing through the indigenous forest until you reach the edge of a cliff of the Beestekraalspruit. From here you will crisscross the Beestekraalspruit about 20 times using wooden bridges which cover a distance of 4 km. After leaving the stream you gradually climb back to the starting point.
The trail is about 11 kilometres and it is considered moderately difficult.
Houtbosloop 2 Day Trail
On the first day of this hike, you will start in the foothills and climb up to the plateau. Along the way, you will cross several streams before reaching the Lisabon overnight hut. On the second day, it will be a decent into the Houtboslopp Valley. The trail will take you from indigenous forest to the Lowveld Sour Bushveld and also the scarce North-Eastern Mountain Sourveld.
The first day of the trail is a distance of 14.5km and the second day is a distance of 13.5 km. To do the 2 day trail, you will need to be fit as it is a difficult trail.
There are plenty of exciting hiking trails close to Nelspruit and a stay at our Nelspruit Lodge is the perfect place from which to enjoy hiking holiday.
Oct 11, 2019 | Things to in and around Nelspruit
If mountain biking is your kind of hobby, then Sabie has got to be one of the most exciting places to do it. The area is ideal for both novice and experienced mountain bikers and the self-guided trails are well marked, safe and amongst some of the most breath-taking, in terms of the scenery. During the wet season, it is advisable to not use slick or semi-slick tyres as these routes and trails can get very slippery and muddy. It is also advisable to take along your pump and spare tubes. This area can get humid in the summer months so be sure to take along enough water and a snack for the road. All of these routes start and end at the Sabie Municipal Caravan Park and it is essential that you obtain a permit before embarking as you will be going through a private forest.
The trails are as follows:
Yellow Route
This is a 6 km route that is fairly easy and should take you less than an hour. You start by following a jeep track that runs parallel to the Sabie River and then turn right at the foot of the densely overgrown and moist cliffs of Castle Rock. The trail takes you over slippery loose slate and rocks, a dense bush tunnel and then back onto the jeep trail that will bring you back to the finish. This trail can be done at night too.
Green Route
This route is 15 km long and an intermediate ride that can take up to 2 hours. On this route, you will find yourself going from a single track to a jeep track, over a wooden bridge then up some steep inclines till you reach an altitude of 1.250 meters. Once at the top it’s a winding series of single tracks that loop you all the way back to base.
Blue Route
This is an intermediate route that can take up to 3 hours and is 25 km long. The start is 8 km of flat riding that will take you over a wooden bridge as you head towards Lone Creek Falls. From there you will climb for about 1 km followed by 9 km of jeep track that leads to Bridal Veil Falls. From there you will be on forestry roads till you get back to the starting point.
Black Route
This route is most definitely only for experienced riders. It is a difficult 13 km ride that starts with a single track along the Sabie River. From then on it is 4 km of uphill riding on a jeep track that becomes a single track of slithery loops. A final one km push ends with a drop-off. This track runs behind a shooting range so if the roads are barred, please don’t use the track.
Red Route
This difficult trail is 30 km and requires some skills. You start out along the banks of the Sabie River and then pass through the Pine Plantations before coming to Oelof’s Dam. Then it is onto an undulating gravel road to Bridal Veil Falls. The next 4 km is an off-road climb up to the Ceylon and Tweefontein boundaries. From here the view of the Sabie Valley is simply amazing. The way down is a technical single track of about 10 km.
Mountain biking guests can stay at Nelspruit Lodge and spend their days enjoying these magnificent tracks. Be sure to book your stay with us this summer.
Sep 22, 2019 | Accommodation in Nelspruit, Nelspruit Accommodation, Things to in and around Nelspruit
All Lowvelder’s are spoilt by the weather. Although the summers can get swelteringly hot, the winters are mild and whether its summer or winter, it is always picnic weather in our part of the world.
Best Place for a Picnic
A favourite picnic spot for locals has got to be the Lowveld Botanical Gardens. The Crocodile River is at the entrance to the gardens bringing an air of coolness with it. The eastern bank of the Crocodile River is home to a tropical rainforest. The gardens are always well maintained and alive with over 600 indigenous trees. The Lowveld Botanical Gardens also have cycads and a wide variety of shrubs and plants. And nestled amongst the vegetation are some of the most tranquil picnic spots.
Just outside of Sabie is a well-known landmark; the Lone Creek. An easy 200 meter walk from the parking area is a waterfall that will truly take your breath away. The waterfall is 68 meters high and falls in into a tranquil pool at the bottom. After viewing these spectacular falls there is a beautiful picnic spot. The falls have been declared a National Monument.
For the more adventurous, there is the option of spending a day at the Mafunyane Riverside Water Park. Here the outdoor enthusiast will have 7 water attractions to experience. The names Cheetah Callenge, Leaping Leopard and Boomslang Bungee are bound to bring out the child in most adults. Here are super slides and sparkling pools to satisfy adults and children. Be sure to bring your picnic basket to enjoy on the lawns, as all that swimming will leave you hungry.
If nature’s peace and quiet is more your thing, the Steiltes Nature Reserve is the place for you. Found in town in the suburb of Steiltes, this gem is an undisturbed piece of nature not to be missed. At the centre of this reserve is a massive granite dome. Here the rocky terrain is a haven for all kinds of wildlife, including the klipspringer. On the rocky outcrops, you will see Rock Figs, Stumvrug and a wide variety of aloes. Running through the middle of the reserve is a stream. The stream is lined with gigantic Matumi and Waterberry trees that make it a perfect hunting ground for the Crowned Eagle. For the avid birder, there are a wide variety of birds that nest in the reserve. And adding to the beauty are numerous butterflies. Other trees to be seen are the Kiaat, Silver Cluster Leaf and Marula. A picnic can be enjoyed in the open grassy areas. Baboons can be heard and care should be taken in summer as snakes live in the reserve.
The Horse Shoe Falls are located on the Sabie Rivers. After taking a short walk that is alive with birds and small wildlife you will find this unique cascade. When you see the falls you will know why it was called the “Horseshoe” falls. This exquisite waterfall is in the shape of a horseshoe. These falls are not that high, but their circular appearance makes them quite unusual. The Horseshoe Falls have been declared a national monument. Not to be missed at the falls is the trout fishing. While enjoying the tranquil beauty of the area, you can have a picnic and also a swim in the refreshing pools.
When staying at our Nelspruit accommodation, don’t miss out on the opportunity to spend some time enjoying a picnic.
Sep 2, 2019 | Accommodation in Nelspruit, Things to in and around Nelspruit
The areas surrounding Nelspruit were born on the backs of the ancient mines. Dotted all around Barberton, Kaapsehoop, and Pilgrims Rest, to name but a few of the old towns, are mines going deep down into the earth. These same mines are the reason why our small part of the world is so filled with interesting history, and is the very reason why some places are now ghost towns.
When staying at our Nelspruit accommodation, you can easily spend a morning or afternoon visiting one of the old mining towns. The one closest to Nelspruit is Kaapsehoop and it is today an attraction that entices countless visitors, many of whom are from Nelspruiters seeking some peace, quiet and mountain air.
A bohemian town today, but a gold diggers delight back then, Kaapsehoop is well known for many reasons, including its mining heritage. And some of the oldest mines in the area can be found in and around the village of Kaapsehoop.
No one is quite sure exactly who first started mining here, or exactly where they came from. Although their artefacts and tools have been uncovered here. Few people have recorded history from this period, but the Mining Commissioner of Kaapsehoop at the time, David Wilson, did keep a record of a few of the examples of these early miners’ activities.
When the government at the time requested that a shaft be sunk for mining, in order to uncover the source of alluvial gold, an object was found. Once they reached a depth of 17 feet, what was initially thought of as a nugget was actually a square hinge. The one side of the hinge had a small piece of parchment upon which characters were written while on the other side was a piece of human hair. The scribbles on the parchment were not recognised. The outside of the hinge was decorated with figures.
The locket was such an interesting discovery that it was sent off to the Masonic Lodge in Barberton, as it was agreed that the symbols on the locket were masonic in origin. Since then the peculiar object has disappeared.
Other objects were also found, also with markings, but they too have been lost to history. The other notable artefact is a sarcophagus cut out of stone. This remarkable piece of stone was discovered on a rock lodge some 2000 feet above the plain between Lydenburg and De Kaap Valley.
The scatterings of history and the people who once made their living from the earth can be seen all across Kaapsehoop and a little digging back in time presents numerous fascinating stories. When you travel through this part of the world, don’t leave Kaapsehoop off your map.
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