Rhodes, Northern Ukhahlamba
The term ‘frozen in time’ takes on new meaning when applied to the little village of Rhodes, perched in the Eastern Cape Highlands virtually on the border with Lesotho at the foot of the highest mountain pass in South Africa. Firmly stamped with quaint and charming examples of Victorian architecture - this part of the world was frequented only by migratory San, before white farmers ventured into the area.
From Barkly East one reaches Rhodes along a narrow and winding gravel road. Rhodes is a remote village, and, because of this inaccessibility, has benefited by remaining one of the most obscure and least frequented little towns in the country. It has, nonetheless, been ‘discovered’ by property seeking executives, resulting in the typical village-style weekend and holiday homes that remain shut up for most of the week. But don’t let this daunt you, as the village retains its immense appeal despite this. Rhodes was declared a conservation area in 1997 and serves as a retreat from civilisation, its 100-year history providing hours of interesting exploring. Styles of homes are across the board and range from flat-roofed ‘kerk-huise’ to grand traders’ residences, including a Herbert Baker-designed stone school house; and the tree-lined streets add to the appeal. The nearest towns are Maclear, Ugie and Elliot.
There is no shortage of activities, if you want to exert yourself after slowing down in keeping with the atmosphere of the village. Many artists make Rhodes their home and galleries are a must. There are also incredible mountain walks and sightings of the rare bearded vulture, known as the lammergeyer. The area, because of its height above sea level and the tendency towards winter snowfall, is also the ‘skiing capital’ of the country and Tiffindell is just above the village of Rhodes on the slopes of Ben McDhui - the highest peak in the Cape.
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Featured Attractions in (or near) Rhodes
Carlisleshoek Pass
Just before the top of Carlisleshoek Pass (also spelt Carlisle's Hoek) there is a signboard that suggests that you 'engage lowest gear, keep up revs and take corners wide'. It closes off by saying that you should 'drive confidently', which is one attribute you are probably no longer feeling considering the aforementioned ... more information
Lundean's Nek Pass
Lundean's Nek Pass, also sometimes spelt as Lundin's Neck, links the little mountain farming community of Wartrail with the Telle bridge Border Post into Lesotho. In broader terms it links the Witteberge Mountains with Lesotho, and is one of the eight passes you will find in the Eastern Cape. The scenery on ... more information
Naudé's Nek Pass
Naudé's Nek lies in the southern end of the Drakensberg in the Eastern Cape, and connects the towns of Maclear and Rhodes. It is probably most well known as the highest dirt road in South Africa, with a summit of 2.920 metres. But is also famous for its public telephone in the middle of nowhere. Even if it doesn't make ... more information
The 8 Mountain Passes of the Eastern Cape Drakensberg
The Eastern Cape Drakensberg is a developing and unspoiled area, perfect for 4×4 enthusiasts and currently offering superb value for money. For the ultimate driving adventure combining spectacular mountain views with some of the highest passes in South Africa, see if you can complete the ‘Eight Passes Challenge’ … more information
Volunteershoek Pass
By all accounts, Rhodes has a colourful history dating back to the 1880s and features many Victorian buildings. In 1997 the entire village was proclaimed as a Conservation Area in the Government Gazette which gives it official protection in order to preserve its unique character - it is the only ... more information
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Things To Do in Rhodes
4x4 and Quad Trails in Wild Mountain Country
Where: Barkly East
How much (per person): On Request
The Barkly East and Rhodes area is ideal for the 4x4 and bike enthusiast. Steep mountain tracks (up to 2750m) and challenging river crossing ... more information
4x4 Trails in Northern Ukhahlamba
Where: Rhodes
How much (per person): On Request
A spectacular drive from Telle Bridge through to Lundeans Nek on good gravel road brings you to Reedsdell. Trails are guided by Chris, rangi ... more information
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Events and/or Festivals in Rhodes
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On Holiday in Rhodes
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