INDUSTRY JOURNAL Vol . 8
The hikes take one through mountain grassland punctuated by ancient pockets of forest harbouring waterfalls and crystal-clear mountain streams . The estate has its own dam ( in a very remote picturesque location ) that is stocked with rainbow trout , ready to take the fly – any takers ?
Champagne Valley is host to multiple activities for the whole family :
• Paragliding
• Golf courses
• Hot-air ballooning
• Horse riding
• Ziplines
• Tubing / kayaking
• Bird shows
• Gliding and helicopter rides
• Reptile centre
• Bowling
• Multitude of restaurants
• Accommodation ranging from camping , caravanning and glamping to self-catering chalets , hotels , lodges and , for the more adventurous , overnighting in caves in the Drakensberg Mountains .
This estate attracts young couples who live and work overseas ( the valley has good connectivity ) and like to escape for periods of time , as well as retired couples who enjoy the peace and quiet , looking at the many faces of the mountain range while sitting on their verandas . Having a holiday house here for friends and family to enjoy is popular – and for good reason .
Cathkin Estates is four-and-a-half hours from Johannesburg , one hour and forty-eight minutes from Pietermaritzburg , and two hours and thirty-nine minutes from Durban , making it very accessible and easy to get out of the rat race and into this very peaceful valley . The crime rate , it must be said , is exceptionally low – time has really stood still here in Champagne Valley . If you are looking for peace and tranquillity and healthy living , you will find it here – guaranteed .
cathkinestates . com
47