Paulpietersburg

Paulpietersburg is nested between Piet Retief and Vryheid, and this country town is recognised as a haven of history, health and homeliness. Housed in the beautiful Drosdy is a visitor's information office, a small museum, Koffee stube and a wealth of crafts for sale. There is a rich heritage resulting from the town's involvement in the Anglo-Zulu war (1879) and Anglo-Boer war (1899-1902), as well as the influence of early German missionaries and settlers. The healthy environment of the area is reflected in the establishment of three spring water bottling plants and the operation of a hot mineral spa. This is a popular venue for paragliding, while the town's Craft Annual Exhibitions draw many participants and visitors. For accommodation contact Hanna - 017 821 0764 www.hannas.co.za http://www.zululandzigzag.co.za/town_paul.php

Paulpietersburg

The picturesque town of Paulpietersburg is situated about 50km from Vryheid and lies in the foothills of the Dumbe Mountain. The town's name is a combination of the first names of President Paul Kruger and Commandant-General Pieter Joubert, both of whom were linked to the old South African Republic. The town has strong links with the South African (Anglo-Boer) War as it was here, at the nearby Egode River, that the peace treaty ending the war was signed. It also featured in the Anglo-Zulu war and visitors can see the battle site at Ntombe 30km away. The town gained municipal status in 1958. The small town has a rich cultural and historical legacy, and there are many memorials and monuments to be found. The Egode River Monument commemorates the site where Louis Botha met his troops before signing the Peace Treaty that ended the South African (Anglo-Boer) War, while visitors can peruse the library, originally the Dutch Reformed Church, and now a provincial heritage site. Another building of historic interest, and also a provincial heritage site, is the Old Drostdy of 1906, the first British colonial public building to be built in the area.  For accommodation call Hanna's 017 821 0764.

Hanna's Farm Guesthouse

Piet Retief Bed and Breakfast (Dinner on request)

Hanna's Farm Guesthouse is an ideal stop-over for holiday-makers and travellers on the N2 between Gauteng and the North-coast or Mocambique. Come & experience the warm atmosphere and personal care from your hosts on this established and successful mixed farming concern within a German farming community. Relax in one of our 3 tastefully decorated en-suite bedrooms, each with DSTV, honesty bar and fascilities for coffee & tea. Alternatively laze in our spacious lounge with DSTV and connecting dining and breakfast area. Step out of your room and enter a lush garden with lots of bird life, swimming pool and children's play area. Enjoy the spectacular view of hills lining the horison and cattles grazing on green pastures.

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Natal Spa - a secret Oasis

As children we spend most our easter school holidays at Natal Spa.  Fishing for Yellow Fish, swimming in the hot mineral pools, playing tennis, and having much fun.  Natal Spa is about 50 minutes drive from Piet Retief and 15 minutes from Paul Pietersburg.  An ideal day trip from Hanna's Guest House.

Natal Spa Hot Springs & Leisure Resort is situated on the road between Vryheid and Paulpietersburg on the Battlefields Route. Famed for its hot mineral waters, which have been in existence since the late 19th Century.

Set on 800 hectares of KwaZulu-Natal bushveld, the resort has access to about four kilometres of the Bivane River flowing through the property.

Facilities in the hotel include an airy dining room and terrace offering lovely views of the garden and pool areas. An additional restaurant is due for completion in April 2008. Buffet breakfasts and dinners as well as a ‘la carte dinners are served. Each room has tea/coffee making facilities and TV, offering 6 channels including M-Net.

The resort is also suitable for wedding receptions and conference facilities. Three well-equipped conference rooms can accommodate between 6 – 120 delegates are available. 

For the active there is quad bike trails, squash, tennis, hiking, birding trails, mountain bike trails and fishing. Indoor, relax with some snooker, table tennis or darts. The main attraction is of course the mineral waterpools and a great 110m long supertube. Future developments include a Wellness Centre which is scheduled to opens it’s doors in October 2008.