Top 3 places to go for snow in South Africa this Winter
April 2022 already brought the first snowfall of the year in Lesotho and if there is a repeat performance of the weather patterns of the last few years, then we are bound to see some snowfall this winter in a few places. So, if you want a holiday with a difference, why not consider a break during the winter months where there are snow-capped mountains and magnificent scenery…and the chance of snow.
Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group has seen his fair share of snow, and whilst he acknowledges that weather is unpredictable and snow is never a ‘sure thing’, here are his three favourite places to search for snow in SA when the weatherman heralds its arrival:
Underberg: Snowfalls in the Underberg can occur anywhere from May through to October. The highest recorded snowfall in the area and, therefore, possibly the best time to go in search of snow, is August. Situated a mere 40kms from Underberg, Sani Pass is a great snow spot to explore, with the first winter snowfall having fallen there in late May this year. Be advised though that you need a 4 x 4 to drive up the pass.
If you are looking for great accommodation in the Underberg area, look no further than Bushman’s Nek Berg and Trout Resort, situated in the picture-perfect foothills of the Southern Drakensberg. It features a selection of beautifully appointed hotel rooms, affordable self-catering apartments and rustic log cabins. With great food, a wellness spa, horse riding, paintball, conference and wedding facilities, as well as loads of family entertainment, this is a sought-after destination, whatever your budget.
Golden Gate: The winter months in Golden Gate are very cold and temperatures can plummet to between -9 and -15°C. Snow is no stranger to this area.
For accommodation just an hour away from Golden Gate and all its winter delights, Qwantani Berg and Bush Resort offers affordable, quality self-catering chalets at Sterkfontein Dam, centrally situated within virtually equal travelling distance from Johannesburg, Bloemfontein and Durban. Qwantani’s prices and facilities are geared for both family holidays, as well as individuals and couples getaways and boasts an on-site restaurant and a spa. The accommodation is pet-friendly too!
Midlands: Winter in the Natal Midlands is cool and dry, with occasional snow and frost and average temperatures of 6°C. August 2021 saw the KZN Midlands transformed into a white-blanketed wonderland along with other large parts of SA previously untouched by it.
Check out Whispering Waters for a magnificent place to stay in the Midlands, offering luxurious accommodation located near Nottingham Road. It is just 1.5 hours drive from Durban and 4 hours drive from Johannesburg. All the self-catering units offer spacious accommodation and feature state-of-the-art appliances, including extras such as underfloor heating, espresso machines, fireplaces and WiFi – who could ask for more after a day of fun in the snow with the family or any of the other many activities on offer in and around the area.
Then, of course, there is Midlands Saddle and Trout which also gets its fair share of snow when conditions allow. It offers reasonably priced, superior rustic country accommodation with quality self-catering chalets, conference facilities and excellent amenities for the whole family. Each tastefully furnished unit has magnificent views of the rolling Midlands, a fully equipped kitchen, flat screen television, WiFi and of course, a fireplace to enjoy on those cold winter evenings. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment, enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, practice your putting skills on the putting green or follow the famous Midlands Meander route and experience all the attractions and hospitality for which the Midlands is renowned.
Don’t leave it too long though, you don’t want the snow to melt before you get there.
For the latest information on where to chase the snow, go to https://www.facebook.com/snowreportsa/.
Shaun concludes, “The very mention of snow conjures up images of snowmen and snowballs, log fires, gluhwein and loads of fun, so why not make your next magical, lasting (snow-laden) memories at one of these incredible destinations?”
For more information about these properties, or to make a reservation, please visit www.firstgroup-sa.co.za.
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