The community of Himeville lies snuggled at the foot of the Southern Drakensberg, in the KwaZulu Natal province. Its high altitude, extreme climates and heavy snowfall caused it to be the last place for the pioneers to farm here, yet it had rich soil, an abundance of water and the most breath-taking scenery.
Himeville is named after a road engineer and the elected prime minister of Natal in 1889, Sir Alfred Hime. It is here that every year the increasingly popular festival Splashy Fen is held.
Formerly the land of San hunter-gatherers, the Himeville Museum, which is located in what was once a fort built in 1900, has a valued collection of San artefacts and an insightful interpretation of their life and of those ancient times. There are many things to keep any visitor to this area busy. From Trout fishing to canoeing, rafting and tubing. The abundance of water in this region means that water-sports is the thing to do. Visit the Himeville Nature Reserve for some magnificent birdlife.
There is no shortage of accommodation options including self-catering houses, guest houses and lodges.Himeville has a thriving little business community and provides a wide range of goods and services to its residents and holiday makers.
Himeville-Underberg is a great place to visit and offers plenty of delicious options for dining out. There are numerous restaurants in the area serving up local favourites and international cuisine. From traditional South African fare such as braais, bobotie, and boerewors rolls, to Italian pizza and pasta dishes, you're sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. There are also several pubs and bars offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy drinks with friends while watching the sun set over the Drakensberg Mountains.
Explore Hiking Trails: Embark on family-friendly hikes in the surrounding Drakensberg Wilderness Area. Trails cater to various skill levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy stunning scenery and fresh mountain air. Don't forget to pack a picnic and binoculars for birdwatching along the way.
Visit a Local Farm: Introduce your kids to farm life by visiting one of the nearby working farms. They can interact with animals, learn about sustainable agriculture, and even participate in farm activities like milking cows or collecting eggs.
Discover History at Himeville Museum: Take a trip back in time at the Himeville Museum, where exhibits showcase the area's rich history and cultural heritage. Kids can marvel at artifacts, photographs, and displays depicting life in Himeville through the ages.
Go Fishing: Enjoy quality family time by casting a line into one of the region's pristine rivers or dams. Fishing is a popular pastime in Himeville, and kids will love the excitement of trying to reel in their catch of the day.
Horseback Riding: Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Drakensberg scenery. Many local stables offer guided horseback rides suitable for riders of all ages and experience levels.
Picnic at Cobham Nature Reserve: Pack a picnic basket and head to Cobham Nature Reserve for a day of outdoor fun. With sprawling green lawns, shady trees, and ample space to play, it's the perfect spot for a family picnic surrounded by nature.
Birdwatching: Himeville is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to an abundance of bird species. Grab your binoculars and explore the area's forests, wetlands, and grasslands in search of colorful feathered friends.
Stargazing: Clear night skies in Himeville offer excellent opportunities for stargazing. Spread out a blanket, lie back, and marvel at the vast expanse of stars twinkling overhead. It's a magical experience the whole family will cherish.
Try Local Cuisine: Sample delicious local cuisine at one of Himeville's eateries. From hearty farm-style breakfasts to traditional Zulu dishes, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Attend Cultural Events: Keep an eye out for cultural events and festivals happening in Himeville throughout the year. From craft markets to traditional dance performances, these events offer a glimpse into the vibrant local culture.
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