July 4th 2024

On our 15th Independence Day anniversary, Sally treated us to a few days in the Drakensberg at Cathedral Peak Hotel. Neither of us had been there before so it was a special treat for both of us.

Some of the scenery as we approached the hotel, showing the Drakensberg mountains.

And views from Cathedral Peaks hotel.

As you can see from the photos, the weather was gloriously sunny. However, when we set out on our morning walk the wind was blowing strongly and being well cocooned was imperative. As on all walks in the Berg, it is stupid if you don’t take a backpack of provisions like water, chocolate for energy and more warm clothes. It was also useful later in the day when it warmed up – somewhere to put all those warm clothes you started out with.

We set out at 09h00 heading to Blue Pools – top right of map above. And eventually got back at about 14h00. Here are some photos of the scenery on our walk.

Birds and animals were few and far between. Not surprising at this altitude and the habitat dry and in many parts burnt.

The following photos show pictures of the birds and animals lower down – around the hotel and on the way to and from the hotel.

Cathedral Peaks Hotel is an all-inclusive resort. The hotel rooms were well sized and decorated. The dining area large with help-yourself food everywhere – smorgasbord style. An island for breakfast staples like cereals etc, deserts at lunch and dinner, breads etc. Another location for coffees and teas. Yet another for cooked dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Another cooking location for trout and yet another for Stir Fry of your choice.

Then between main meals there was a between meals tea, coffee and cakes station outside the dining area.

The bar area was cosy with a fire and comfortable seating.

The range of activities was extensive. Catering not only for walkers with trail guides but also activities for children of all ages.

We enjoyed the location and social interaction.

Would we go back? Yes, but as pensioners, only on a special occasion.

Birding was best on our journey to the hotel and around the grounds. In all we recorded 45 different bird species in 2 locations: Cathedral Peaks and a Wetland near Winterton.. You can see our list by downloading the following link.

Cheers

Paul and Sally Bartho