Activities at Witsend
The unspoilt property on which Wits End is situated is a nature lover’s paradise with indigenous forests and mountain grasslands and a wealth of flora and fauna. Guests can take a leisurely stroll along one of our nature trails which wind through the forests, grasslands and along the dam and river.
Bird watching enthusiasts will find an abundance of species along the trails as well as amongst the chalets where the exclusively indigenous gardens are in keeping with our ecologically friendly policy. Other wildlife to thrive on the property includes various species of buck, Natal otter, water mongoose, civet cat, porcupine and jackal.
Our 10 acre dam is among the largest in the area. It is stocked with rainbow trout and Natal yellow fish so that guests can enjoy fly fishing as well as canoeing. Fly fishing at Wits End is for our guests only and is free of charge but operates on a strict “catch and release” policy. As the dam is not heavily fishes some good catches have been recorded. Recent catches include:-
30 November. Philip Schoeman- Western Australia. Caught some small Yellowfish.
19 November- Colin Freese- 25 Natal Yellowfish on Black Nymph
19 November- Gary Halversen 10 Yellow’s 150-200 mm
19 November Bruce Menny- 10 Yellowfish 200 mm.
20 October- Liz Bennett- 1 yellowfish 1 Rainbow Trout.
We also have a rock swimming pool with a kids paddling pool, a playground with a trampoline, table tennis and darts and a “chip and putt” green.
Wits End is a stone’s throw from the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park, one of only 7 sites world-wide to be awarded World Heritage status in 3 categories: Archaeology, Vegetation and Geology.
This a wonderful area for hiking, swimming in the crystal clear water of mountain streams, and discovering unique wild flowers and san rock art.
The internationally acclaimed Drakensberg Boys Choir School is across the road from Wits End so guests may attend the weekly term-time concerts. The school’s bi-annual music festivals are another attraction not to be missed.
Another famous local attraction is Champagne Sports Resort’s 18 hole Championship golf course. This is approximately 5 minutes drive from Wits End. For the more laid back golfer there is Monks Cowl Country club’s course which is also within 5 minutes of the resort.
One can hardly visit the Drakensberg without enjoying the views from horseback. There are numerous places to horse ride within 2 to 10 minutes of Wits End where the horses are properly looked after and the rides well organised.
Other nearby adventure activities include:
- abseiling
- kloofing
- mountain biking
- river rafting
- quad biking
- even archery.
(For further information on adventure activities see our “Teambuilding” page)
For the less adventurous there is still plenty to keep one occupied in The Valley. There are numerous local art studios, ceramic studios, weaving factories and a candle making factory. One can view bees in a glass hive or enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea at one of the many tea gardens.
There are various opportunities to indulge in retail therapy so don’t forget the cheque book! The Champagne Valley also boasts a number of health and beauty salons where one can enjoy treatments including massage, manicures, pedicures and facials to name but a few.
