Exciting adventures for the whole family in and around Hillcrest

Hillcrest is the go-to suburb of the Upper Highway area. It is popular for its beautifully designed homes, temperate climate, friendly residents, and a wide range of attractions for the entire family. Whether you are new to the area or just visiting for the holidays, there are a plethora of adventurous activities in and around Hillcrest suitable for the whole family. 

For the adventure seekers

• Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park

The Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park is a favourite for both amateur and advanced riders. 
It boasts various clearly marked trails as well as an obstacle course with ramps and bridges.
The 5km long green trail is a steep trail while the orange trail is double the distance but traces its way along the valley. The BMX track is also much loved by the young and old enthusiasts. If you are looking for something to do while your loved ones are off biking, you can enjoy a leisurely coffee at the coffee shop in the tranquil atmosphere that Giba Gorge provides.

• Climbing and mountaineering in Monteseel

Considered one of the oldest places to climb, Monteseel is an unspoilt rocky crag found outside Hillcrest. Located on the edge of the Valley of 1000 Hills the area is the oldest and biggest climbing area in KwaZulu Natal. There are over 300 different routes of varying difficulty for avid climbers. The crag is divided into two main sections known as the eastern and western buttresses. Thrill-seekers do not require a permit to climb here as the crags are on public land.

For the kids

• Wet Rock Adventures

Wet Rock Adventures is certainly a must-visit for all. No matter your age is, you can enjoy an action-packed trip down the kid and adult-friendly slides or a splash around in the lazy river. To satisfy your hunger after much fun you can grab a scrumptious bite at the Wet Rock Café. What's more, the amazing indoor heated water park is open all year round.

• Winsome View Animal Farm

The Winsome View Animal Farm is fun for the whole family. You get to learn about animals while interacting with a variety of them. Such as ducks, geese, chickens, squirrels, pigeons, guinea fowl, pigs, goats, sheep, donkeys, ponies, as well as rabbits. If you need a break from the activities, the venue also has a lovely little tea garden.

• Waterfall Equestrian Centre

Whether you are interested in casual or competitive horse riding, children and adults can both have fun with a variety of horse riding lessons and equestrian activities at the Waterfall Equestrian Centre. There are also trail rides and pony camps at the centre. 

The centre was established in 2017 by Louise Ann Mitchell. She completed her Horse Mastership Course and was a long-standing instructor at New Market Stables. 

For the laid back

• Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market

If you are looking for the best of local goods that the Upper Highway has to offer, then the Shongweni Farmers Market is worth the visit on a Saturday morning. Located just 15 minutes from the heart of Hillcrest, you can browse the stalls and shop for fresh produce, delicious fruity jams, a cake for tea time, decadent pancakes, homemade bread, and a whole lot more at the friendly market.

• Umgeni Steam Railway

While you are in Hillcrest, you have to experience a ride on the famous Inchanga Choo Choo train. You get to see the captivating landscape of the Valley of a Thousand Hills on this magnificent ride. There is also a craft market with food stalls and a picnic area to sit and relax when the train stops. While at Inchanga, you can also visit the Museum in the Station Master's House next to the station. 

The Umgeni Steam Railway operates trains on the last Sunday of each month between Kloof and Inchanga, with special trains running from Pietermaritzburg to Inchanga and Nottingham Road.

• Camelot Golf Club

Situated in the heart of Hillcrest, the Camelot Golf Club is a golf enthusiast's heaven. The 9-hole course is a charm with tranquil surroundings, sloping fairways, and well-manicured greens to ensure a pleasant golfing experience. The Goblet Pub and Restaurant serves as a hallway house for players who need to fuel up on scrumptious food and drinks. 

For the nature lovers

• Krantzkloof Nature Reserve

If you love the outdoors and becoming one with nature, then the 532-hectare Krantzkloof Nature Reserve is worth the visit. The reserve prides itself with an abundance of flora and fauna. There are about 50 mammals, 253 birds, 35 reptiles, 150 butterflies, 273 trees, and over 1500 plant species found here. Visitors can marvel at the spectacular views across the well-forested gorge cut by the Molweni River, as well as the Everton Waterfall. The Kloof Falls is an added attraction at the reserve. 

• Valley of a Thousand Hills

Named after the countless hills which tumble down to the mighty Umgeni River, the breathtaking Valley of a Thousand Hills has something for everyone. The unspoilt nature, wildlife, magnificent scenery, and warm country hospitality is a mere 15 minutes away from Hillcrest. There are over 60 restaurants and eateries, hiking, camping, train rides, horseriding, farmer's markets, sporting events, and many other exciting options for visitors to explore. 

Hillcrest is a breath of fresh air for those looking for a permanent residence or simply visiting for the holidays. There are activities and attractions for all ages to enjoy. If you are keen on making this top-notch location your home get in touch with the area experts to help you find your humble sanctuary.