5 stunning mountain towns to visit in South Africa this spring
· The South African
Spring is one of the best times to explore South Africa’s mountain towns.
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The cold of winter begins to ease, hiking trails become more inviting and, in many parts of the country, the landscape bursts into colour as wildflowers and other mountain plants come into bloom.
From the Maluti Mountains to the Drakensberg and the Cape Fold Mountains, these five towns make particularly good spring getaways. Take a look…
1. Clarens, Free State
Clarens is one of South Africa’s classic mountain escapes, sitting in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains near Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Spring brings fresh green landscapes and colourful blossoms to the town, while the surrounding mountains provide a spectacular backdrop. The town itself is worth exploring, with galleries, cafés, craft shops and restaurants clustered around the village.
For something more adventurous, the surrounding area offers hiking, mountain biking, horse trails and other outdoor activities.
2. Hogsback, Eastern Cape
Swallowtail Falls in Hogsback, South Africa. Image: canvaHigh in the Amathole Mountains, Hogsback is surrounded by indigenous forests, waterfalls and mountain trails.
Spring is a particularly lovely time to visit, when the landscape starts coming alive after winter. The misty forests and green hills give the town a distinctly magical atmosphere.
Spend the day hiking to waterfalls and viewpoints before returning to the village for a relaxed meal or a browse through its small collection of cafés and craft shops.
3. Montagu, Western Cape
Surrounded by the dramatic Langeberg Mountains, Montagu is a great choice for a spring weekend in the Western Cape.
The town combines mountain scenery with historic buildings, hiking trails, rock climbing and the famous Route 62. The warmer spring weather also makes it a good time to explore the mountains without the intensity of summer heat.
For something more relaxed, visitors can explore the town’s cafés, restaurants and nearby wine farms.
4. Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal
Montane grasslands in Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal. Image: canvaIf you want mountain scenery with a distinctly South African spring twist, head to Underberg in KwaZulu-Natal.
The town sits below the southern Drakensberg and provides access to some of the country’s most spectacular high-altitude landscapes.
Spring is a wonderful time to explore the Drakensberg grasslands, which can produce an impressive display of lilies, orchids, pelargoniums and other wildflowers.
Nearby Himeville and the Sani Pass area also offer plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking and exploring.
5. Ceres, Western Cape
Surrounded by mountains and fertile farmland, Ceres is a particularly beautiful spring destination.
The valley is famous for its deciduous fruit production and dramatic mountain scenery, while the surrounding area offers hiking, scenic drives and outdoor adventures.
It is also an excellent base for exploring the wider Cape mountain region, with scenic mountain passes leading into and out of the valley.
Why spring is the time to go
Spring gives these mountain towns a completely different character.
The days become warmer, landscapes turn greener, and wildflowers begin appearing across parts of the country. In the Drakensberg, montane grasslands can be particularly rewarding for flower lovers, while the Western Cape’s mountain landscapes start emerging from winter.
And if you prefer your spring getaway to involve mountains, hiking, small-town charm and spectacular scenery rather than crowds at the coast, these five are well worth putting on your list.