8 things to do in and around Underberg for an ideal getaway

Posted by Jordyn Johnson on 13 December 2022

Underberg lies at the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg about two and a half hours outside of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

Glorious summer days canoeing, tubing, swimming, and any other river activity you could possibly think of. Frosty winter mornings collecting pine cones for the fireplace, and cosy coffee shop visits.

My countless Underberg holidays remind me of a Hallmark Christmas movie. If that description hasn’t convinced you enough, maybe these 8 things to do in and around the Underberg area will.

1. Canoeing and tubing

underberg getaway

Beg, borrow, hire, or bring your own canoe or tube, and take it down the fresh Mzimkhulu River. Spend a morning paddling or lazing as the river takes you past dairy farms and old oak trees. The rapids add a level of excitement to the activity, and the cool water is perfect for those high summer temperatures.

2. Fly fishing

Picture: Unsplash

Trout is the fish on offer in the rivers and dams in and around the Underberg area. Fly fishing is incredibly popular, and there’s nothing like an early morning or late afternoon spent by the water, especially for avid fishermen. Enjoy a delicious trout-based meal after spending a day enjoying all that’s on offer in Underberg.

3. The Olde Duck

underberg getaway

This place is perfect for adults and children alike. The animal farm and big Jungle Jim will keep the kids busy for a very long time, while you sip your coffee or enjoy one of their lunch menu options. Sit beneath the tall trees and wide green spaces and breathe in that fresh country air at The Olde Duck.

4. River Glen Farm Cheese

underberg getaway

One of my favourite stops in Underberg is the River Glen Farm Cheese store. Drive past the jersey cows with their long lashes to get to the shop. Walk past big windows where you can see the cheese-making process in action, and then step into a giant fridge where the cheese is kept. Sample the different flavours of cheese, among other dairy products, and visit the calves in the nearby stalls.

READ: Where the heck’s Himeville?

5. Kenmo Lake

Many people will tell you that the best time to visit Kenmo Lake is in autumn when the trees turn shades of orange, yellow, and red. The reflections of the colours in the water are beautiful, and the area is perfect for a picnic, exploring, or spotting birds in the bird hide.

6. Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Park

Mohale Dam Lesotho

Picture: Tyson Jopson

A declared World Heritage Site, the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Park is home to more than 40 000 bushmen paintings. This cross-border protected area is the largest outdoor gallery of rock paintings. Definitely make the short drive to this exceptional park to appreciate South Africa’s history, as well as the exceptional scenery.

7. Himeville Arms Restaurant and Pub

Photo: Michael Roger Denne – Flickr

The Himeville Arms is situated in the neighbouring area of Underberg. This historic pub serves craft draughts and local wines, as well as offers idyllic views of the Drakensberg mountains. Enjoy a drink, or stick around for a delicious pub lunch/ dinner next time you’re in or around Underberg.

8. Hiking

Whether you want a short hike, like the Hlogama Mountain Trail, or a longer one, like the Underberg Town Trail, there’s something for everyone. Underberg’s hiking trails offer scenic views of the Drakensberg mountains, farmlands, and rivers. Be sure to check the weather to make sure you don’t land up hiking during a violent afternoon thunderstorm.

Pictures: Jordyn Johnson

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ALSO READ: 10 underrated small towns and villages in South Africa






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