When it comes to mountain travel, many just think of riding up to a cabin, hibernating with a book under a quill or risking it all and climbing a mountain covered in layers of gear.
But that’s not how it has to be. South Africa has a long list of mountains and regions with plenty to explore and uncover.
When it comes to South African mountains, winters are spectacular with some getting frequent dustings of snow.
The best time to visit is a seasonal choice and whether you fancy spring, summer, autumn or winter exploration, adventure is always guaranteed.
There is also a range of experiences and activities to enjoy in these mountain regions. If you are looking for a touch of luxury, here is where you can go to redefine what mountain travel means to you.
Wine experience in the Cederberg Mountains
The Cederberg mountains are located near Clanwilliam, approximately 300km north of Cape Town in the Western Cape.
Though the rugged mountains of the Cederberg may seem an unlikely place to discover lush vineyards, the mountain’s unique high-altitude environment is home to a handful of pioneering wine farms earning a global reputation for producing world-class wines.
This makes the place the ideal place for a relaxed wine tour and taste best wines from the region with the backdrop of the mountains in sight.
As you explore the region, you can visit the Cederberg Wines tasting room or go on a Cederberg Wine Tour with Bushman’s Kloof learning about the history and culture of the region.
Consider a stay at Bushman’s Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat starting from R8 260 a night for 2 on the Discover BK package.
History, mountain and safari experience at the Lebombo Mountains
Learn about the history of the Zulu and Shangaan tribes and go on a safari experience with the back drop of the Lebombo Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal.
The mountains stretch from Hluhluwe in KwaZulu-Natal, prime safari territory, in the south to Punda Maria in the Limpopo Province in South Africa in the north. Parts of the mountain range are also found in Mozambique and Eswatini.
Ghost Mountain in Mkuze and part of the Ubombo or Lebombo Mountain range was the customary resting place for chiefs and a cave on the mountain was used as a tomb by generations of the Gaza family.
For the safari experience, you can visit Mkuze Game Reserve close to the mountain range.
uMkhuze harbours an astonishing diversity of habitats ranging from the eastern slopes of the Lebombo Mountains to stretches of rolling acacia savannah, swamps, woodlands and riverine forest.
Wildlife includes black and white rhinos, elephants, giraffes, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo and a multitude of plains game.
Consider a stay at Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge starting from R8 502 a night.
Hot air balloon experience in the Magaliesberg Mountain region
Magaliesberg is a mountain range extending from Pretoria in the north of the Gauteng Province to a point south of Pilanesberg, in the North West Province, South Africa.
Magaliesberg separates the lower-lying, hotter bushveld to the north from the cooler Highveld to the south, extending in an east-west arc between Rustenburg and Pretoria in the province of Gauteng.
The best way to explore the magnificent beauty of the Magaliesberg region is with a hot air balloon ride with views of the Magalies River Valley and Mountains.
The region is known to offer some of the best ballooning weather in the world and The Magalies River Valley Scenic Balloon Safari package departs daily from the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO world heritage site.
There are also plenty of other activities to do around the region including a visit to Hartbeespoort. Consider a stay at the Magalies Mountain Lodge starting from R1 000 a night for 2.
Nature and wellness experience in the Maluti Mountains
If you are seeking a tranquil escape from city life, then a visit to the mountains is best way to detach.
The village of Clarens on the foothills of the Maluti Mountains near the Golden Gate National Park and the mountain kingdom of Lesotho offers the perfect home base and escape.
The tranquil village ambiance combine with scenic views and a mild climate makes for the ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers from Johannesburg, Bloemfontein and Durban.
These cities are all approximately 300km from Clarens or a comfortable 3 to 4 hours drive away. The village has become known as the “Jewel of the Free State” – rich in beauty, with an aura of peace and tranquillity.
The town is known for the many art galleries and craft shops that offer the visitor a wide range of curios and original artwork. Another feature, which adds to the picturesque atmosphere of the village, is the many sandstone buildings.
Consider a stay at Mont d’Or Clarens with breathtaking views of the Lesotho Highlands from the comfort of your 4-star luxury room starting from R2 514 a night for two.