TOP
Exploring Tourism in South Africa
South Africa
icon Worldwideicon
Places to Visit Details

Kwazulu Natal

Valley Of 1000 Hills, South Africa

The breathtaking Valley of a Thousand Hills is an exciting component of Durban and South Africa's province of KwaZulu-Natal - the Kingdom of the Zulu. The Valley of 1000 Hills is one of those few holiday destinations that has something for everyone. Unspoilt nature, wildlife, magnificent scenery, wining and dining, and warm country hospitality just a half an hour's drive from the centre of Durban. The area is named after the thousands of hills which tumble down to the mighty Umgeni River, which flows from the distant Drakensberg Mountains to the warm inviting Indian Ocean.

 

The Outer West area of the city of Durban extends from Kloof inland andincludes the beautiful Valley of 1000 Hills, up the winding and picturesque Botha's Hill.

 

Botha's Hill, midway between the beaches of Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal provincial capital Pietermaritzburg, enjoys the most commanding views on the coastal side of the Drakensberg. At about 800m above sea level, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the berg and the ships on the Indian Ocean.

 

Overlooking the world-famous Valley of 1000 Hills with its living Zulu museum and many other cultural and natural attractions, Botha's Hill is on the route of the Comrades Marathon and Dusi Canoe Race. Named after Carolina Botha who opened the first inn there in 1849 to cater to wagoners, Botha's Hill has maintained this spirit of hospitality. Comfortable B&B guesthouses in Botha's Hill also offer self-catering facilities, and there is a well-equipped backpackers' lodge for the more adventurous. Shongweni Dam, Game Reserve and Polo Grounds are nearby, as are Inanda and Nagle Dams as well as Tala Game Reserve. A word of caution - if you want to stay in Botha's Hill during the Comrades or Dusi races, book well ahead!

 

Also out this way are many shopping centres such as the much-enjoyed Hillcrest Heritage Market with its beautiful rose gardens - a perfect place for a Sunday breakfast with the family, or after your mountain bike ride through Giba Gorge!

Check out more Places to Visit