ATKV Drakensville is a holiday resort located in the Northern Drakensberg region of South Africa, on the R74 route between Harrismith and Bergville, near the border between the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.
The resort is situated near the foothills of the Drakensberg Amphitheater, a world heritage site, and boasts a pleasant cool mountain climate. It is about three hours’ drive from Johannesburg and Bloemfontein, and about two and a half hours from Durban. The resort is owned and operated by the Afrikaanse Taal- en Kultuurvereniging (ATKV), which is a cultural organization that promotes Afrikaans language and culture. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, including chalets, self-catering units, and camping sites, as well as facilities such as swimming pools, a restaurant, and sports fields. It also offers a variety of activities and entertainment options, including hiking, fishing, and cultural events. It was established as a worker’s village during the construction of the Drakensberg Pump Scheme and after the completion of the project it was sold and later bought by ATKV.
Activities to enjoy at ATKV Drakensville
ATKV Drakensville offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy during their stay at the resort.
Hiking:
The resort is located near the foothills of the Drakensberg Amphitheater, which offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors of all fitness levels. Hikes range from easy walks to challenging ascents, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Fishing:
The resort is located near a number of rivers and dams, which offer excellent fishing opportunities for both the experienced angler and the novice. Visitors can fish for rainbow trout, yellowfish, and bass.
Swimming:
The resort has a number of swimming pools, including a heated pool, that are open to visitors.
Sports:
The resort has a number of sports facilities, including tennis courts, a mini-golf course, and a soccer field, which visitors can use.
Cultural events:
The resort hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, theater productions, and art exhibitions. These events are aimed at promoting Afrikaans culture and language.
Children activities:
The resort has a children’s play park and also offers a variety of children’s activities such as a mini-train ride, pony rides, and a playground.
Other activities:
The resort also offers other activities such as a spa, a gym, and a restaurant. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area by taking a scenic drive or going on a guided tour.
All these activities provide a great way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Drakensberg region while experiencing the cultural diversity of South Africa.
What attractions are in the areas surrounding ATKV Drakensville?
The surrounding area of ATKV Drakensville offers a variety of interesting attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Drakensberg Amphitheater:
The Drakensberg Amphitheater is a world heritage site and one of the most iconic natural features of South Africa. It is a spectacular cliff face that stretches for over 5km and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike to the top of the Amphitheater to get a panoramic view of the area.
Sani Pass:
Sani Pass is a scenic mountain pass that leads to the Lesotho border, it’s a challenging drive but with beautiful views. It offers an opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Drakensberg region and to learn about the history and culture of the local Basotho people.
Royal Natal National Park:
The Royal Natal National Park is located a short drive from ATKV Drakensberg and offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, rock climbing, and fishing. Visitors can also see the famous Tugela Falls, which is the second-highest waterfall in the world.
Golden Gate Highlands National Park:
Golden Gate Highlands National Park is located about an hour’s drive from ATKV Drakensberg. It is known for its golden sandstone cliffs, grasslands, and wildlife such as the Bearded vulture, Eland and other antelopes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking in this beautiful park.
Vulture restaurant:
The vulture restaurant is a unique dining experience at the base of the Drakensberg Mountains, where visitors can enjoy delicious food while watching vultures feeding from a nearby feeding station.
Falconry displays:
Visitors can watch and learn about the ancient art of falconry at the nearby Falconry Centre, where trained birds of prey put on displays and visitors can even have a chance to handle the birds themselves.
All these attractions and activities provide a great way to explore the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the Drakensberg region and make the most of your stay at ATKV Drakensville.
