Friday, April 9, 2010

Champagne Valley, Drakensberg

After a long drive yesterday evening, we arrived safely at The Champagne Castle Hotel - situated deep in the Drakensberg Mountains. En route from Durban we drove towards an stunning red sunset behind the mountains. Unfortunately by the time we arrived at the hotel, it was completely dark and we had no idea what the surroundings looked like.
Champagne Castle, Drakensberg Mountains, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa
Champagne Castle, Drakensberg Mountains, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa
In the morning we were treated to the most spectacular view of the mountains all around us. It turns out that the hotel is actually situated directly under the Champagne Castle ridge and we had great views of Cathkin Peak (3149 m), Sterkhorn, Mount Memory, Monk's Cowl and Dragon's Back. A stunning view that I would struggle to survive. I suddenly wished that I had done a bit more research into the mountains and that we were staying longer. I was drawn to the ridge but we had not the time or any equipment. Still... an amazing place... that must be revisited in the future (something else for the list!).
Champagne Castle, Drakensberg Mountains, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa
Champagne Castle, Drakensberg Mountains, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa
Emily and I at Champagne Castle, Drakensberg Mountains, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa
Emily and I at Champagne Castle, Drakensberg Mountains, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa
We set off down the road again down the Midlands Meander tourist route towards Pietermaritzburg.
It would be the big day for Terri and Bini very soon and we were due to stay with Terri's parents in Pietermaritzburg. Before the wedding the plan was for us all to head to Cape Town to meet up with the rest of their UK guests - can't wait!