Somerset East, Greater Addo
Apart from its beautifully preserved buildings that are worth a visit in their own right, Somerset East is perhaps best known because it is on the Blue Crane Route in the Eastern Cape. This picturesque and quaint town is at the foot of the Boschberg Mountains that provide both a forested and mountainous backdrop to what is a rather dramatic setting - there are no less than 16 waterfalls within sight of the town.
The Blue Crane Route meanders along the R63 from Pearston, via Somerset East, to Cookhouse and was created as part of an alliance of farms on the route to save the Blue Crane from extinction. As South Africa’s national bird and part of the country’s heritage, collisions with power lines and fences, agrochemicals, getting caught in baling twine and being stolen for the pet trade are still reason for concern with regards to the bird’s conservation. Somerset East is very close to the Boschberg Nature Reserve, which has a number of very popular hiking trails. This is bird-watching country and the natural beauty of this haven is yet a relatively undiscovered treasure.
Other activities in the area include trout fishing in two of the local dams; a highly rated 9-hole golf course, said to be one of the most beautiful in the country and local game farms provide malaria-free safaris. Events include the Spring Rose and Flower show for which Somerset East produces some of the finest roses in the country.
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Featured Attractions in (or near) Somerset East
Addo Elephant Park
Situated in a malaria free area the magnificently diverse Addo Elephant Park offers a wide variety of game viewing, outdoor adventure, accommodation and cultural experiences. You will be amazed at the variety of South Africa Wildlife that can be experienced in one easily accessible destination ... more information
Bosberg Nature Reserve
Set on the southern slopes of the Bosberg Mountains, the Bosberg Nature Reserve is a thickly wooded nature reserve that looms over the town of Somerset East. The lower slopes and sheltered kloofs are covered with beautiful Outeniqua yellowwoods, white stinkwoods, cabbage trees, wild peaches and olives ... more information
Mountain Zebra National Park
The craggy heights of the Mountain Zebra National Park's Bankberg embrace rolling plains and deep valleys, and has become an entrancing preserve for the Cape mountain zebra. The proclamation of the park in 1937 saved these animals from extinction, and currently their population stands at 350 ... more information
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Events and/or Festivals in Somerset East
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On Holiday in Somerset East
• Somerset East Accommodation
• Somerset East Hotels
• Greater Addo Accommodation
• Greater Addo Hotels
• Eastern Cape Accommodation
Visiting Somerset East?
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