M ATAT I E L E

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AWAIT

ALFRED NZO DISTRICT NORTHERN-EASTERN CAPE
 10
OVER MATA
SC

DI

TI
ELE
’S
Majestic OF T
HE B
EST

Matatiele Matatiele is rugged, rural and wild where

you want it to be and cosy, pampering and
relaxing where you need it to be – a perfect
destination for those who enjoy the adven-
turous side of life without forsaking home
comforts.

As the gateway to unforgettable adventure, Matatiele’s

reputation as the perfect home base for unparalleled out-
door exploration and action is well earned. Whether on
foot, horseback, mountain bike, four-wheeler, motorcycle
or 4x4, the numerous adventure trails pass through parts
of the country and scenery that few are lucky enough to
see. With a backdrop of the Southern Drakensberg, Mata-
tiele is the perfect adventure playground. What are you
waiting for – come experience outdoor adventure country
at its best.

1
 Sehlabathebe
Lesotho National Park

To Swartb
Maloti Drakensburg Route
Bloemfontein

erg
Lesotho
Matatiele is situated in the Durban Ramatseliso’s Gate

beautiful Northern-Eastern Cape. Matatiele

Qacha’s Nek
KwaZulu-
Mount Frere Mehloding
Port Edward Adventure Trail Natal
Find us on the map
Mariazell Mission Maluti R617
Queenstown Ongeluksnek
Nature Reserve Graded
Cradock Matatiele accommodation
in Matatiele
Eastern Cape Cedarville
Thabachitja
East London Matatiele
N
11
Nature Reserve R56

Port Elizabeth
N
4
N
1

Pretoria
Johannesburg
N
4

R56
Matatiele
N2
N
2
N
N N 3
N
1

Kokstad
14 11
N
5
Bloemfontein
N N
10 8
N
N
7
12 Lesotho Durban
South Africa N

Brook’s Nek
2
N
6

Lubaleko
UMZIMVUBU
N N
N 9 10
1 East London
Mount Fletcher
Cape Town N
2 Port Elizabeth
Matatiele
Knysna

Mount Ayliff 3
 Wildlife and
Bloemfontein Museums

Lesotho Pietermaritzburg

Outdoor
adventure

Matatiele R56
Route 56 is the shortest and most
R
Route 56 Matatiele

Kokstad
scenic route between the Cape and Great trout
fishing Mount Fletcher
Visit Molteno Museum
KwaZulu-Natal Experience
Maclear local culture
Steynsburg Elliot Ugie Discover rock art
R56 Middelburg
Dordrecht

Molteno Indwe Mthatha

Cala
Route 56
Queenstown Hiking with
Matatiele sits conveniently centrally on the R56
spectacular
Route between Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal Outdoor adventures -
Cradock mountain views
hang gliding &
and Middelburg in the Eastern Cape. Knowledge-
water sports
able travellers will know that this stretch of road is
a viable and scenic alternative to the busy N2 be-
tween Durban and the Eastern Cape. There is much ORE ROU
to be discovered in this neck of the woods, where East London PL

EX
travellers can take in spectacular mountainous foot-

TE
hills, rural villages, sparkling streams, indigenous ROU
TE

56

56
forests and top-of-the-world views.

The Matatiele area is just a few hours’ drive from

Durban or Mthatha, making it a superb weekend
destination. Port Elizabeth

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 10 OF THE B

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Visitors have two options to choose from tering chalets are also available.

MATATI

T
– they can either explore the Mehloding Along the way, hikers can indulge in a
Adventure Trail on the own, or take part spot of moderate rock climbing, swim-
in a four-day tour. The latter is highly rec- ming in the cool streams and wildlife
Mehloding Hiking Trail
The area surrounding Matatiele of- ING ommended and the most popular option spotting along the footpaths.
HIK
fers unmatched views from on top of as the local guides are not only familiar The Mehloding Adventure Trail brings
with just about every nook and cranny visitors closer to nature and teaches
the world. There are guided walking in the area, but also provide a wealth of about the fascinating rural villages, indig-
or horse riding tours to local rock art interesting information. Along the way, enous trees, medicinal plants, rock art,
traditional chalets – built by local com- ferns, forests, wildlife and local history.
treasures, bird-watching escapes or munities - are available for overnight Guests are also able to explore the moun-
one could enjoy the clean, crisp air stays, and each has its own atmosphere tainous foothills of the Maluti Drakens-
and charm. Expect hot showers, stunning berg on a fully supported, guided moun-
on a stroll through the mountains. views and a friendly host to provide deli- tain bike and house back trail.
cious traditional home-cooked meals as Contact Mehloding Adventure Trail on
you put your feet up and rest in prepara- 0397373289 or visit www.mehloding.
tion for the following day’s hike. Self ca- co.za

Mehloding Hiking Trail

The Mehloding Adventure Trail, located in the rela-
tively unexplored southern Drakensberg, takes you
on a path of a rich, diverse, cultural heritage. It is
here where southern Lesotho, the Eastern Cape and
KwaZulu-Natal collide, and the area is rich in heri- Birding
tage and breathtaking landscapes. The name Matatiele originates from the So-
The route traverses spectacular mountainous foot- tho words ‘matata’, meaning wild ducks, and
hills and rural villages, taking in visits to ancient ‘ile’, meaning gone. Birders, however, need not
rock-art sites, sparkling streams, indigenous trees, fear, as there are still some 40 to 60 bird spe-
medicinal plants, craft projects and top-of-the- cies in the area, many of which can be found
world views – all through some of the cleanest air on on the slopes or rocky outcrops of the nearby
the planet. mountains.
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 Mountain biking
Mountain biking is one of the fastest-growing sports in the
country and it is hard to imagine a more suitable area to take
your bicycle off road than here at Matatiele. Whether on pre-
determined mountain-biking trails or out for a casual ride,
the area is home to an infinite number of rides for all levels
Matatiele is home to some of the very of skill.
best adventure biking terrain in the
world and it is not uncommon to see
whole families enjoying some time
riding their bikes out in the open. 10 OF THE B

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ES
MATATI

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Off-road motorbiking
Go Offroad

D
Matatiele is developing a healthy reputation as the ROA
heart of the country’s off-road motorcycling. Route
OFF
56 Matatiele Bike Adventures offers guided bike
tours to Ongeluks Nek, Rhodes, the Transkei Wild 4x4
Coast and Lesotho. The rides cover all terrain and Matatiele is conveniently situated at the south-
can be customised to suit the client’s needs and ex- ern border of Lesotho, making it the perfect base
perience. To find out more about this exciting activ- from which to explore this mountain kingdom and
ity, call them on 039 737 4486. the Southern Drakensburg. Considered by locals
to the ‘last outpost’, Matatiele offers three border
Matatiele is home to some of the very best adven- posts into Lesotho, of which two are 4x4 passes.
ture biking terrain in the world and it is not uncom- Other interesting 4x4 routes include the Onge-
mon to see whole families enjoying some time riding luksnek Nature Reserve and 4x4 Pass, Mariazell
their bikes out in the open. Mission and the Three-Sisters 4x4 Route.

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 3
TIELE 10 O
TA F Matatiele Mountain Lake is well stocked with rain-

MA
bow trout and the odd brown trout, with plenty of

TH
trophy-sized fish lurking under the surface. The fish-

E BEST
ing is excellent and the beautiful peaceful surrounds
compliment the healthy trout. There are also a num-
FIS
HIN ber of private farm dams in our area that sustain
G
healthy populations of large-mouth bass and carp.
To find out more about fishing in the area, contact
Flyfishing Matat on 039 737 4067 or find them on
Main Street.
If you enjoy the peace and quiet of
fly-fishing, you’ve come to the right
Catch of the day

place.

Fly-fishing
If you enjoy the peace and quiet of fly-fishing, you’ve
come to the right place. Matatiele is a popular trout
fishing hotspot and offers a number of pristine des-
tinations that are perfect for lovers of this cunning
sport.
We are spoiled for choice when it comes to fishing
in the area. With Matatiele being a water-rich area,
one can enjoy fishing for rainbow and brown trout,
bass and carp. There is a wide selection of fishing op-
tions available, with locations ranging from stocked
farm dams and a lake to cold mountain streams and
raging rivers.
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 The Ongeluksnek Nature Reserve, situ-
ated an hour’s drive from Matatiele, along
10 OF THE the Southern Drakensberg in the Eastern

4
LE Cape, opened in 2008 and forms part of

BE
E
the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier

MATATI

ST
Park, straddling South Africa and Leso-
tho’s borders. To find out more about the
reserve, call the Eastern Cape Parks and
KS NEK
ELU Tourism Agency on 043 701 9600.
ONG

Ongeluksnek Nature Reserve is locat-

Ongeluks Nek

ed on the Drakensberg Mountains,

which have globally significant plant
and animal biodiversity, with unique
habitats and high levels of endemism.

Ongeluks Nek Nature Reserve

Ongeluksnek offers fantastic hiking for all fitness
levels. There are several marked trails from 1km
to 12km, as well as longer mapped but unmarked
trails for the more adventurous - ideal for horses
or mountain bikes.

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 Mountain Lake Nature Reserve
0 O F T HE Located 12 km from town, on a plateau of rolling grasslands and
E1

5
Matatiele Nature Reserve
L wetlands. The reserve offers magnificent views of the Drakens-

BE
E
MATATI
berg. The lake covers 30 ha when full and offers excellent trout

ST
fishing (rainbow trout). The reserve is home to more than 80
species, including the rare Rudd’s Lark.

UR E
NAT

From Mountain Lake in Matatiele,

nesting site of the rare Rudd’s Lark,
to Franklin Vlei, home of the White-
winged Flufftail, this region offers Wilfred Bauer Nature
the professional and amateur orni- Reserve
thologist a wide variety of species to Situated 5 km west of town on
the Lesotho road the reserve
identify. offers picnic facilities, fishing,
walking and game view-
ing. Come and visit
the unique Zedonk
(a cross between a
Birding donkey and zebra)
Take a leisurely farm walk while identifying over 80 which roams the park.
recorded bird species. Or stand motionless beside a Other species include
wetland and view one of the largest remaining Wat- various bird life, Wil-
tled Crane populations in South Africa. debeest and Zebra.

15
 Heroes Acre
The Matatiele Heroes Acre was built in memory of the
A relatively new museum, the Mata- many fallen heroes who passed away during the struggle
tiele Museum houses exhibitions era. Many of the victims’ bodies were exhumed from coun-
tries like Lesotho and Botswana and buried in South Africa.
of the local prehistory, history and
cultures of the town and district from 10 OF THE

6
History and Heritage

Stone Age to present day. LE

BE
E
MATATI

ST
E
TUR
Matatiele Museum CUL
The museum building was originally a Dutch
Reformed Church that is made of sandstone and is
a National Monument, with the exhibits having been
kindly donated by the local historical society, which
Local Crafts
collected artefacts of historical interest.
For those interested in local crafts, the craftwork traditions of
the area include beadwork, sewing, pottery and weaving. Hand
The collections have been assembled and presented
woven materials comprise generally functional items such as
to tell the story and represent a moment in history,
sleeping mats, baskets, and strainers, while Xhosa ceremonial
especially Matatiele and surrounding areas.
clothing is often elaborately decorated with fine embroidery
work and intricate designs.
There is a good display on San people, mission-
aries and pioneers, with household objects and
bric-a-brac and early attire worn by the settlers, Traditional Dancing
fossils, Xhosa and Sotho artefacts, a small Zulu Mataiele’s highly rated dancers put on a fine show, dancing to
display, artefacts from a 19th Century Imperial army traditional Xhosa music in authentic local dress. To find out
that was stationed here, post boxes and post carts where they will next be performing or to book them, contact the
from the Matatiele Mail that started in 1938. Matatiele Municipality on (039) 737 3135.

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St Monica’s Diosecan School

E BEST
Another school in Mataiele is St Monica’s Diosecan
EDU School, an English medium, non-racial co-educational
CAT school that provides a solid foundation for life in a
IO N multi-cultural world.

The Mariazell Mission is a beauti-

ful place, steeped in history. For
years it has served as a sanctuary for
African orphans, providing food and
education

Mariazell Mission Tholang High School

Education

The Mariazell Mission was built in 1904 and contains This previously disadvantaged school has kept a high pass rate
a self-sufficient hydro electrical system. A catholic for number of years.
mission, Mariazell is regarded as one of the best High
Schools in the area because of its high pass rate and
Mariazel High School
highly acclaimed politicians such as Patrick Lekota
Mariazel High School is known for producing some of the coun-
and Albertina Sisulu are alma maters. The institution
try’s finest.
is like a mecca for many catholic brothers and priests
from around the world.
Mvenyane High School
With the beautifully ordained church is certainly Mvenyane High is one of the best schools in the rural commu-
worth a visit. nity, and offers a hostel.

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 O F T HE
10

8
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MATATIE

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The Mehloding Hiking Trail and Freedom
Challenge Heritage event
S
VAL
This annual event that takes place in September and celebrates the
TI
FES people of Matatiele’s culture and heritage through horse riding and
traditional dance. The Freedom Challenge is a partner of the event
which focuses on youth development, thus the event includes a
The annual Matat Fees is an outdoor- cycle race.

based family festival held at Matatiele

Golf Club Club. For one weekend
Join the festivities

every year the spotlight is on Mata-

tiele, as the town becomes a hive of
The Matatiele Music Festival
activity and fun. The Matatiele Music Festival is an annual event that takes
place on the second Saturday of December at the Old Ruby
Field (Aerodrome). The event includes performances by
both national and local jazz artists.

Matat Fees
The Fees is made up of flea markets, stalls, live music,
activities, local crafts and outdoor sports – and this
year will see Matatiele hosting a senior and junior
National Enduro motorcycling race for the first time.
The Enduro promises to firmly place Matatiele on
the map as an adventure biking hotspot.

Look out for the Matat Fees from 18-20 October

2013. This is an event to be enjoyed by both young
and old.
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 Lesotho is the ultimate secret tourism des-
10 OF THE

9
LE tination, a place to discover the wonderful

BE
IE
mountain vistas and the culture of the Ba-

MATAT

ST
sotho people who inhabit the spectacular
highlands. This is a land of contrasts with
modern facilities and easy access in the
Y main towns. But, if you venture further
EWA
GAT afield, you can find yourself in a pristine
and rugged natural environment.
Gateway to Lesotho

Matatiele falls into the Maloti Route,

a tourism route that passes through
the Eastern Cape, Lesotho, East-
ern Free State and the Ukhahlamba
Drakensberg.

The Maloti Route – a truly idyllic me- or just soak up the breathtaking
Maloti Route ander through awe inspiring natural scenery. For the more adventur-
The trip is best suited to 4x4 travel and takes visitors beauty and picturesque mountains ous there are ski slopes, horse
into some of the most charming towns in the moun- where you can visit friendly villages trails, 4 x 4 and hiking trails. Ac-
tain kingdom – offering untamed mountain vistas at and towns, follow where dinosaurs commodation along the route in-
every turn. With three border posts, Matatiele is the prowled and left footprints, enjoy cludes graded hotels, luxury lodges,
considered the Gateway to Lesotho. arts and crafts of the highest quality, self-catering cottages and homely
fly fish, visit renowned rock art sites B&B’s.

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 10 OF THE

10
LE Coffee Shops

BE
IE
MATAT

ST
Enjoy a wide array of light lunches, muffins and cakes with tasty imported
Italian Coffee. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in a beautiful garden setting
equipped with playground to keep the kids busy.
NESS
BUSI
Come and do business

Matatiele offers well-equipped

conferencing facilities as well as
quaint coffee shops, perfect for your
business meeting and conferencing
needs.

Conferencing
Matatiele offers well-equipped conferencing
Come and stay facilities at Resthaven Guesthouse, Ntabase
Situated on the R56, Matatiele is the gateway to and the Royal Courtyard Hotel. Delight clients
Southern Lesotho and the Maloti Route and is the with warm hospitality and friendly service in
scenic alternative route from Cape Town to Durban. Matatiele.
The ‘uncommercialised’ vibe of Matatiele matches
its laid back, friendly hospitality. Pictures courtesy of Resthaven Guesthouse
25
Taste the Difference

Matatiele is well known for its 100%

organic red meat from the many
surrounding local farms.

Traditional Food
What could be a better taste of your trip than to dis-
cover the favourite food of the locals. If you have an
Organic Meat insatiable appetite for alimentary authenticity, Xhosa
Matatiele is well known for its 100% organic red cuisine is for you. From rhabe wild spinach to amasi
meat. Whether you sample the delicious meat at fermented milk, Xhosa cooking is deliciously diverse
a local restaurant or on your braai, you’ll taste the and tasty. Contact Ntabase B&B who can arrange tra-
difference. ditional meals on request.

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 Addis Guest House Edendale Guest Farm Matatiele Nature Reserve Sara Lee
D i n n e r, B & B | M a t a t i e l e Along R56 Nature Reserve D i n n e r, B & B | M a t a t i e l e
Call: 039 737 3747 Call: 039 737 3842 Call: 039 737 3565 Call: 039 737 3432
Email: [email protected]
Caravan Park Half Acre B&B Mehloding Chalets
Caravaning | Matatiele D i n n e r, B & B | M a t a t i e l e Chalets | Along Southern Berg Semphethe B&B
Call: 039 737 3333 Call: 039 737 3414 Call: 039 7373289 B&B
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Call: 039 7374546
Cedarberg Guest Farm
Guest Farm | Before Matatiele Lala Lapha B&B Ntabase
B&B
Top House
Call: 039 757 5535 D i n n e r, B & B | M a t a t i e l e D i n n e r, B & B | M a s a k a l a V i l l a g e
Email: [email protected] Call: 08 3 2 4 3 7 3 7 6 Call: 039 737 4997 Call: 039 737 3852
Email: [email protected]
Where to stay

Clainheim B&B Laphola Guesthouse Ongeluksnek

B&B | Matatiele Guest House Along Southern Berg
Tevleigh
Call: 039 7373337 Call: 039 737 4898 Call: 039 2564888
Call: 039 7373330
Email: [email protected]
De Berg Maluti Star Hotel
Top House B&B
D i n n e r, B & B | M a t a t i e l e Hotel | Maluti Resthaven Guesthouse
B&B
Call: 039 737 3000 Call: 039 256 0133 D i n n e r, B & B | M a t a t i e l e
Call: 039 737 3852
Email: [email protected] Call: 039 7374067
Masakala Traditional Email: [email protected]
Up Market Accommodation
Dula Le Rona Guesthouse Guest House D i n n e r, B & B | M a t a t i e l e
Guesthouse Guest House Royal Courtyard Hotel Call: 039 737 4074
Call: 079 256 8024/073 396 3022 Call: 039 737 3289 Hotel | Matatiele
Call: 039 7373100
 M ATAT I E L E
Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency Route 56 Matat Matatiele Municipality
Tel: 047 531 5290 Tourism Office Tel: 039 737 4067 Tourism Officer Tel: 039 737 3135

Proudly sponsored by the Matatiele Local Municipality and Alfred Nzo Development Agency

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ITE ES
D W E PROGR