Top favourite places to visit in KZN
The holiday season is officially upon us. The province of KwaZulu-Natal plays host to tourists and South Africans alike, spending much-needed time off along the East Coast. From the province's historical battlefield sites to summer favourite, uShaka Marine World - here are the top five places to visit in KZN during the festive season.
5. KwaZulu-Natal's Battlefields
KwaZulu-Natal's BattleFields are situated in the northern and central parts of the province which include Isandlwana in Zululand, Rorke's Drift (southeast of Dundee) and Ladysmith's Spionkop. It's the largest cluster of battle and war-related sites and forms part of an important history in South Africa - that of the Anglo-Zulu War and the First Anglo-Boer War. Although visitors have the option of a self-guided tour of one of the sites - it's recommended that a tour guide is allocated to you and your family. Accommodation and eateries can also be found in the region.
For more information, visit these links on Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift.
4. Tatham Art Gallery - Pietermaritzburg
Established in 1903, the gallery is home to visual arts - serving the Msunduzi region. According to the official site, the gallery initially housed artistry created by British and French artists, and the first works by contemporary South African artists were collected and displayed from 1983 onward. Art lovers can indulge in finding ceramics, basket art, beadwork, and wood carvings. Open from Tuesdays until Fridays, at 9am to 4pm, Cafe Tatham is also found on the gallery's first floor and serves cappuccinos and light meals. Buffet lunches are held on Sundays from 12pm, with bookings essential.
For more information on this museum and current exhibitions, follow the link here.
3. Midlands Meander - Howick
KwaZulu-Natal's Midlands Meander lies north of Pietermaritzburg - stretching a massive 80km route. It's an arts and crafts hub first established by local artists on a small scale in 1985. It's since grown to include restaurants and bars, accommodation, and water sporting activities at the nearby Midmar Dam. Travellers can also make a stop at the iconic Nelson Mandela Capture Site and Museum. This part of the R103 became a historical site on August 2, 1962, when Nelson Mandela was detained - an arrest that resulted in Madiba's 27-year imprisonment.
2. The Litchi Orchid - Umhlali, north KZN
The Litchi Orchard is nestled in Umhlali, along KZN's north coast and is literally a litchi farm and - a haven of local food, decor and design. The family owned property runs a monthly market (the Makers Market) on the second Saturday of each month. You'll find an award-winning nursery, Muddy Boots Garden Centre; a gourmet restaurant, The Shed and craft store, Howie & Co. - to name a few attractions.
There will be a night market tomorrow with Christmas Carols, while on December 28, an 'Orchard Nights - Summer Night' event will be taking place.
1. uShaka Marine World - central Durban
Durban's marine theme park - uShaka Marine World is a family favourite. Situated on Durban's Golden Mile, uShaka Marine World is home to - Sea World which hosts marine animal shows, Wet 'n Wild a little world of slides and pools for the adventurous and uShaka Beach, a beach that's freely open to the public. Those who prefer the view of the ocean, can meander along The Village Walk - an open air shopping centre - with both stores and eateries.
