Nestled in the picturesque Drakensberg mountains of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, the Himeville Nature Reserve offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Proclaimed to its present size of 104 hectares in 1973, the reserve stretches along the eastern boundary of the charming village of Himeville.
One of the main draws of the Himeville Nature Reserve is the opportunity to partake in trout fishing in the two dams that are situated within the reserve. While boats are no longer available for hire, anglers are welcome to bring their own small rowing craft or flotation tubes (please note that power boats are not permitted on the dams). Fishing permits are required and can be obtained at the reserve office.
In addition to fishing, visitors to the Himeville Nature Reserve can also enjoy birdwatching, as well as taking leisurely walks throughout the reserve to view limited wildlife such as blesbuck and black wildebeest. The reserve is also only 14 km from the nearby Cobham Nature Reserve, which offers enjoyable walks and hikes for the whole family.
Popular destinations and activities near Himeville Nature Reserve
In addition to the activities offered within the Himeville Nature Reserve, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the surrounding area. One popular attraction is the nearby Cobham Nature Reserve, which is known for its scenic walks and hiking trails. This reserve offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful Drakensberg mountains and see an abundance of wildlife, including various bird species, buck and the rare Grey Rhebuck.
For history buffs, the Himeville Museum is a must-see. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the area and showcases artifacts and exhibits that give insight into the lives of the early settlers in the region. The museum also offers guided tours to visitors.
For those interested in outdoor activities, the Drakensberg Mountains offer plenty of opportunities for adventure. Visitors can go rock climbing, abseiling, horseback riding, or even take a hot air balloon ride over the mountains. For a more relaxed experience, the area is popular for picnics and is home to a number of beautiful picnic spots.
For the more adventurous, the Sani Pass is a popular destination, and the pass is only about 10km away from the reserve. The Sani Pass is a challenging mountain pass that winds its way up to the Lesotho border, and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the pass on a 4×4 vehicle.
Overall, the Himeville Nature Reserve and its surrounding area offer a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, an adventure in the great outdoors, or a glimpse into the region’s rich history, you’ll find something to suit your tastes in this beautiful part of South Africa.
For those looking to spend the night, the Himeville Nature Reserve offers basic camping facilities in an open area. Guests can set up their tents or park their campers, and a maximum of ten sites are available. There are plug points and cold water taps available for caravans, and firewood is sold at the office.
Himeville Nature Reserve is a peaceful and natural retreat for nature lovers, anglers, and families looking for a secluded getaway in the heart of South Africa.
