The Escarpment is known for its abundant rainfall. The area has a wealth of hiking trails winding through pine and indigenous forests with age old tree ferns reflecting the unique charm. The region is also known for its seasonal grasslands strewn with wild flowers and panoramic views, proteas and aloes. The many streams of are rich with trout and fly fishing is a popular activity here. It has many spectacular waterfalls that are worth visiting. Popular waterfalls include Horse Shoe falls Lone Creek, Forest, Maria Shires, Bridal Veil and Mac Mac.
The Blyderivierspoort Nature Reserve stretches from Swadini in the north to the Pinnacle near Graskop. This reserve is characterised by striking rock formations and a rich variety of plants which support an equally rich and diverse fauna. The Bourke's Luck Potholes, which are deep cylindrical cavities formed by river erosion and the action of flood water, are situated within the reserve.
The panoramic views of God's Window provide views stretching across miles of thickly forested mountains, the fertile lowveld and the Blyde River Canyon. Lydenburg lies in a wide fertile valley against a backdrop of rolling hills and enormous cultivated forests. Lydenburg is well known for its well-preserved old buildings. East of the town you will find the Gustav Klingbiel Reserve which has antelope and over 100 bird species but is also the site of archaeological ruins from the Later Iron Age. The Lydenburg Museum is situated in the reserve.
Pilgrim's Rest is a living museum and has been transformed into a replica of an early gold mining town in South Africa. Gold was discovered here in 1873, and many of the restored miners' houses now serve as shops. Horse riding trails through the Pilgrim's Rest Nature Reserve surrounding the town are conducted daily.
Information on towns in the Escarpment Region
Belfast, Dullstroom, eMakhazeni, eNtokozweni, Graskop, Groblersdaal, Lydenburg, Machadodorp, Ohrigstad, Pilgrim's Rest, Sabie, Schoemanskloof
