South Africa’s Fairytale Holiday Destination & Fairy Capital Perched on the very edge of the dramatic Amatola Mountains, surrounded by indigenous forests and pine plantations, the little town of Hogsback is the stuff fairytales are made of. No wonder that so many come especially to get married in the unique little St Patrick’s chapel on the hill.
In winter, Hogsback is often blanketed with snow, and that’s when it’s time to kick back and cozy up in front of a roaring log fire or to take a brisk walk in the clear, bracing air. Hogsback is an enchanting, tranquil place that begs exploration.
Seasonal changes are spectacular and the beautiful spring gardens deserve special mention. Here, where massive trees such as ancient yellowwoods shade thickets of ferns and fields of St Joseph’s lilies, where streams and waterfalls tumble down the mountain side, you can enjoy birding, trout fishing, rock climbing, swimming, abseiling, mountain biking, horse riding and a 4x4 route through indigenous forest. Or take a trip to one of the nearby game parks to round off a day’s exploring.
Visit the Ecology Shrine, follow marked hiking trails, marvel at beautiful gardens, do the Tolkien trail, meet local artists and crafts people, challenge your innerself at South Africa’s largest labirinth or relax and rejuvenate in the capable hands of the various complementary health therapists who practice their healing arts in the peaceful, countryside atmosphere.
Accommodation ranges from backpackers’, guest houses, B&B’s, hotel rooms and self-catering chalets/cottages. Annual events include X-mas in July, the Hogsback Festival (September) and the Hobbiton Mountain Bike Race.
