When you think of South Africa’s best mountain escapes, the Overberg, Clarens, Hogsback and Cederberg may spring to mind.
But tucked into the foothills of the southern Drakensberg, Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal, is quietly emerging as a destination worth putting on your travel list.
The rural farming town sits in the Mzimkhulu River valley at the foot of Hlogoma Peak, close to the Lesotho border.
It is best known as the gateway to the iconic Sani Pass, but increasingly, travellers are discovering that Underberg is a destination in its own right.
Why travellers are discovering Underberg
The region has already received something of a celebrity stamp of approval. Television personalities Jonathan Boynton-Lee and Fezile Mkhize have showcased Underberg as an adventure destination, while actress Renate Stuurman recently enjoyed a peaceful cabin escape in the mountains.
Her winter getaway offered a glimpse of the destination’s appeal: sunny days, dramatic mountain views, snow-capped peaks and warm jacuzzi baths - the ingredients of a restorative countryside break.
“Every traveller finds their own unique draw to the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg, including the Underberg region,” says Siphelele Luthuli, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife marketing manager.
“The mountain vistas are excellent, the rugged rocky outcrops, or the lush green slopes, the landscape is breathtaking.”
Adventure, nature and the Sani Pass
For adventure seekers, Underberg offers plenty to do. The area is a base for exploring the southern Drakensberg, with hiking, fly-fishing, mountain biking, horse riding and river activities among the experiences on offer.
Its proximity to the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park also puts dramatic landscapes and ancient San rock art within reach, while the famous Sani Pass provides a route into Lesotho.
“Adventure lovers revel in world-class hiking, tranquil fly-fishing, and starlit camping,” says Luthuli.
“The region caters for all kinds of visitors.”
A winter escape with a chance of snow
Then there is the weather - one of Underberg’s biggest seasonal attractions.
“The other beauty with Underberg is the occasional snow, due to its proximity to Sani Pass. That’s another highlight,” says Luthuli.
For South African travellers, the possibility of waking up to snow-capped Drakensberg peaks adds something special to a winter getaway, particularly for those looking for a mountain experience without leaving the country.
The Underberg also lies in close proximity to South Africa’s border with Lesotho, allowing travellers the opportunity to take day trips and visit the highest pub in Africa at Sani Escape, which sits on top of Sani Pass at an elevation of 2,874 meters.
From luxury lodges to music festivals
Underberg caters to different types of travellers, with luxury lodges, cosy bed and breakfasts, self-catering accommodation and camping facilities available.
The town is also home to Splashy Fen, South Africa’s longest-running music festival. Held over Easter on a farm near Underberg, the festival attracts thousands of music lovers and creates one of the area’s biggest seasonal tourism peaks.
Yet the destination’s appeal extends beyond major events. Its rural setting, outdoor experiences and slower pace make it particularly suited to travellers seeking an alternative to busy city and coastal holidays.
“Best of all, everything is conveniently close; major attractions and entertainment hubs are just a short drive away, allowing visitors to pack multiple adventures into a single, unforgettable day and still return to their chosen accommodation facility,” Luthuli adds.
For travellers in Durban, Pietermaritzburg or Johannesburg, Underberg is an appealing road-trip destination in KwaZulu-Natal.
As travellers increasingly look beyond the obvious holiday destinations, this Drakensberg gem could be the next mountain getaway to watch.
zamandosi.cele@nationalmg.co.za