Nearby Attractions
Things to do for:
Explore KwaZulu-Natal
Oaklands Country Manor is situated in a uniquely beautiful part of South Africa, with many of KwaZulu-Natal's premier attractions within short driving distance. Guests looking to venture beyond the Manor grounds are spoilt for choice with inviting distractions including quaint little towns, historic battlefields, and a majestic mountain range.
Ardmore Guest Farm arts & crafts
Ardmore is an internationally respected ceramic art studio where 50 local Zulu artists sculpt and paint beautiful pieces, some of which find their way into the world's most famous collections. At Ardmore guests can also visit African Loom, a local weaving business, as well as view or purchase an impressive range of Amangwe beadwork.
Basotho Cultural Village
An hour and a half's drive from Oaklands, the Basotho Cultural Village is nestled at the foot of a large sandstone mountain on the border of the Golden Gate National Park. Experience an indigenous South African tribal way of life , and observe traditional home building, food preparation, and cultural dancing.
Clarens
Clarens is a quaint artists' village less than 2 hours drive from Oaklands. Situated in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains it is within close proximity to the Golden Gate National Park and the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. Spend a day wandering through arts and crafts shops and galleries, and indulging in wholesome produce from local eateries.
The Drakensberg
Stand atop one of South Africa's most magnificent natural features and marvel at the sweeping views that this unique vantage point affords. Just an hour and a half away the Drakensberg mountain range is a magical and breathtakingly beautiful location, a must-see for hikers and nature lovers.
Golden Gate National Park
The Golden Gate National park is famous for its extraordinary sandstone cliffs and a diversity of fauna and flora . Wildebeest, eland, springbok and zebra are some of the mammals which inhabit the reserve, while the rare bearded vulture and bald ibis are bird watching attractions.
Ingula Dam Nature Reserve
Ingula is a pumped storage hydroelectricity scheme being developed by Eskom which consists of two dams connected by underground waterways. Due for completion in 2012, the plant will have an estimated power capacity of 1332 MW. The area surrounding Ingula is a nature reserve with lush wetlands, rich birdlife and an archeological site where several fossils and petrified trees have been discovered.
The Natal Midlands
The Natal Midlands is one of the province's most remarkably beautiful regions, prized for its rich natural splendour and charmingly rustic atmosphere . Take a slow drive along the Midlands Meander , admire the breathtaking scenery, and stop over at one of several country farm stalls and arts and crafts studios.
Spioenkop
Spioenkop is an area steeped in South African history and natural beauty. The battlefield is an easy 30km drive from Oaklands , with the dam situated a further 10km away. Discover how the brutal battle of Spioenkop unfolded during the Anglo-Boer war, or spend a relaxing afternoon in the wilderness at Spioenkop Nature Reserve.
Sterkfontein Dam
Sterkfontein Dam is the main attraction in a beautiful nature reserve, which is home to a variety of wild antelope and 200 species of bird. The dam has some of the world's best yellowtail fly fishing and is an ideal location for watersport, particularly sailing when conditions are windy.
Van Reenen
A 7 km drive from Oaklands will take you to this charming little town. Van Reenen is situated on the border of the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal, and visitors can take their pick of several exciting outdoor activities or guided tours of the region. Van Reenen's annual calendar features a number of events from horse races and mountain bike challenges, to cultural festivals and hunting the hounds (drag hunting).
