Some wild winter escapes

“Even though South Africa is renowned for its sunny skies, every winter snow falls on mountain ranges throughout the country,” Ewart-Smith says. “You don't have to shell out for an overseas trip to get a taste of snow - just a few hours' drive from our major cities there are parks and nature reserves where you can indulge your winter fantasies. Hike past snow-dusted peaks, spend time game-viewing in the warmer lowlands or get comfy in front of a roaring fire.”

The Editor's Choice of the top five winter escapes are:

• Golden Gate National Park, Maluti Mountains
• Giant's Castle, Drakensberg
• Cathedral Peak, Drakensberg
• Cederberg Wilderness Area
• Limietberg Nature Reserve, Du Toitskloof Mountains

“A winter break is a great way to recharge your batteries,” Ewart-Smith says. “In our protected areas you're far removed from the stresses of daily life yet you don't have to give up life's luxuries. Ultra comfortable chalets and log cabins have television and fireplaces, but if you really want to get away from it all you can choose a stone cottage out of cellphone reach.

“Best of all, the parks and reserves offer great value. You can get a rustic cottage from as little as R380 or stay in luxury for R1 260 in a family cabin.”

All the details are in the winter 2009 issue of Wild, available now from SANParks, CapeNature, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Msinsi Resorts and Big Game Parks of Swaziland. Wild magazine is published for the Wild Card programme by Tip Publishing and appears four times a year.