The challenging mountain terrain of Wartrail & New England offers a wide range of activities for those who wish to fill their lungs with the cleanest air imaginable. Whether you wish to hike the highest peaks, mountain bike in peace and quiet, ride beautiful horses or paddle down the river, the choices are magnificent. Whichever activities you prefer, you will love the safe and pristine wilderness that is Wild Mountain Country. After a healthy day outdoors, you can relax and unwind in a charming guest cottages, put those tired feet up in front of a roaring log fire and refuel with delicious farmhouse fare. Unless otherwise stated, all activities are available at any of the guest farms in the Wartrail & New England area.
HIKING
Whether you fancy taking a gentle family walk down the river or a lung-busting hike to the top of the peaks, our terrain has something to offer everybody. The Wartrail & New England districts offer true mountain wilderness, with summits reaching over 2,500 metres. You can climb the peaks to have an eye to eye encounter with the eagles that soar the skies. If hiking up the slopes doesn’t take your breath away, then the views at the top will. Gaze down on gorges, valleys, streams, buck and wild flowers, revel in the freedom and enjoy the silence. Quench your thirst from the crystal clear streams and fill your lungs with clean mountain air. The beauty of this little-known hiking paradise is the sheer lack of people – this is one place where you can truly get away from the crowds.
RUNNING
This area is a premier region for running as it is safe and offers a wide variety of routes. The softer dirt surface and ample hills of the roads, or the challenge of mountainous terrain allow for perfect training opportunities. Meet up with family and friends after your run at one of the many rock pools for a picnic and refreshing swim
HIKING & RUNNING EVENTS
There are events for all levels of people who enjoy tackling our tough mountain terrain in a competitive environment:
• Garmin Wartrail Tri-Challenge – March – 65km extreme
• Rhodes Marathon – July – 52km
• Lammergeier Half Marathon – September – 21km
• Salomon Skyrun – November – 100km extreme
Check our events page for current dates and further information
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Mountain bike trails abound in this farming district and there are routes for all abilities and levels of fitness including undulating district roads with little traffic, district road, but with stiffer climbs and descents, jeep/twin track – easy or more technical as you wish, single track including steep descents for the adrenaline junkies. The region’s MTB trails offer spectacular views, combining climbs, flats and descents with river crossings, gorges and open farmland. Great riding can be accessed from any of the guest farms in the area.
• MTB Guiding: Ray Sephton – 045 971 9087
MTB EVENTS IN THE EASTERN CAPE HIGHLANDS
• Garmin Wartrail Tri-Challenge – 90km – March
• Ride to Rhodes Freedom Challenge – 550km – May-June
See our annual events page for current dates and further details
HORSE RIDING
Horse Riding in the Wartrail & New England area offers guided trails on lovely horses ranging from just a couple of hours to fabulous 3 day trails to the Lesotho border that are an experience of a lifetime. Your hosts can provide you with further information.
SKIING & SNOWBOARDING
A winter wonderland – the Wartrail & New England valley experiences on average 4 or 5 snowfalls a year between June & August.
Snowball fights, skiing, bum boarding or snowboarding are just some of the ways you can experience the thrill of being in the snow.
Enjoy the convenience of skiing at Tiffindell Ski Resort in the winter months as a day visitor and staying in the Wartrail & New England valley where you enjoy sumptuous meals and warm beds at the end of an exciting day – a more affordable & homely option. Or experience our exceptional hospitality on your way to or from your Tiffindell Package.
For the less adventurous, a lovely evening spent in front of a fire or solid fuel heater may be a more attractive option.
PLEASE NOTE TIFFINDELL IS CURRENTLY CLOSED
MOTORBIKE & QUAD TOURS
Snow Valley Adventures offer guided scrambler and motorbike tours to those with their own vehicles. Contact Chris or Kath on cell 082 837 8066 or see our Motor page for further details.
Annual Events for bike enthusiasts include:
• Snow Valley Bike Ride – December
• Clifford Rally – March
See our annual events page for current dates and further details