The Amble - Natural as Nature Indeed
$7.81 | £15.53 | €12.41 | | Time: 14:48 |  |
A detailed overview of the Amble area of the Midlands: Never at a Gallop
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A leisurely indulgence in nature’s finest moments
–
bountiful and world-renowned fishing, picture-perfect
vistas of rolling green landscapes and dramatic rocky
outcrops, teeming bird life and animals. Add to these
delights the warm hospitality promised by our wide-ranging
choice of accommodation, plus a fascinating mix of cultural
encounters, and The Amble is a treasure to be savoured at
length – not in haste. This 80-kilometre stretch of
unique
Midlands welcome is the ideal host for that much needed
escape, critical conference or day that begins a life of
wedded bliss, and we look forward to sharing with you all
the bounties of our dream-come-true.
Bishopstowe
‘Amble’ was originally an equestrian term, and the noble steed is appropriately a prime attraction of this historic settlement and surrounds - The Amble’s nearest starting point from Pietermaritzburg and just 10-kilometres from the city centre. Life in the saddle hallmarks both Thakazela Horse Encounters and Table Mountain Adventures, with outrides and pony parties setting free seasoned rider and novice alike to experience that pioneering spirit of yore. The latter establishment, which also offers camping or B&B after a rewarding day on the range, is named after the district’s easily ascended, 960-metre landmark and superb viewing site.
Table Mountain’s clearly evident sandy rock strata are the second oldest on earth, younger only than the ‘basement’ granites at the foundation of all continents, and placing it here some 250 million years before the Colonial-era residency of Bishop Colenso! Cumberland Nature Reserve lies at the heart of this undulating mix of deciduous woodlands and valley bush landscapes, where impressive birds of prey circle above many antelope and other small animal species. These include more than 60 reptile variants, and the proclaimed Natural Heritage Site is criss-crossed with comfortably negotiable trails for memorable, up-close encounters with our fascinating flora and fauna. Cumberland’s scenic walks are dotted with barbecue-equipped picnic sites for that daylong excursion, in addition to well appointed camping grounds for a sublime weekend getaway.
More outdoors ‘BYO lunch-spots’ in conservation- conscious surrounds lie within The Sanctuary, a wildlife rehabilitation centre, snake park and animal farm that caters especially for school tours and even hosts children’s birthday parties.
And all lovers of cuddly creatures will doubtless be left misty-eyed by a visit to Crafty Duck animal farm, high on Whispers Hill. After a light lunch, afternoon tea and shopping spree at the handicraft centre, settle down for a comfy night in The Duck’s Nest before another day of exploring.
Even smaller and more fragile are the delicately winged denizens of Butterflies for Africa, the continent’s premier walk-through butterfly conservatory, nursery and education facility. Be absorbed by these seldom seen delights, shop for the widest range of butterfly-related crafts, appreciate leading artistic talent, savour the coffee bar’s renowned culinary treats – in whatever order suits your newly-acquired amble. To marvel at hundreds of men and women clearly not relaxing, choose a shady valley vantage point alongside the rushing Msinduzi River each January, for the globally televised spectacle that is our famed Duzi Canoe Marathon to Durban, some 80 hard paddling kilometres away.
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Albert Falls
To get in shape for this gruelling event, or simply to enjoy some unsurpassed water-borne fun, journey a mere 20- kilometres from Pietermaritzburg’s city limits to the expansive Albert Falls Dam. Rated among the world’s most abundant bass-fishing destinations, it’s also a particular highlight of our wonderfully scenic Waterfall Country, and the powerful Mgeni River’s spectacular cascade into the dam is a majestic bonus. Anglers, row-boaters, wind-surfers and canoeists will find more than enough water to share with the more boisterous powerboat enthusiasts trailing skiers or para-sailing thrill seekers in their wake.
Surrounding Albert Falls Dam is a nature lover’s dream and the ideal environment to bring a fresh-air perspective to the more momentous occasions in life. While every board and lodging venue in the area offers bird watching and game viewing, via walking- or drive-trails, many are further equipped to bring city-associated activities into new and pristine surrounds.
Hosting conference, team building and other crucial business-related meetings is a highly sought after feature of the Albert Falls Resource Reserve, Boa Vista Game Lodge, Otto’s Bluff Guest House, Game Valley Private Reserve and Peattie’s Lakeside Resort. All will happily also witness your “I do!” in the most romantic setting imaginable, plus the last named will there and then tempt you to settle down into exclusive country living on a sectional title unit!
To experience a traditional rural lifestyle, make arrangements with Ecabazini Zulu Homestead for a cultural tour or overnight stay in authentic surrounds. Discover the mysteries and symbolism of Zulu folklore, music and dance, sample unique cuisine and home-brew sorghum beer, then see your future revealed in a throw of the bones – the pulse of Africa beats here!
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