Cathedral Peak, Drakensberg

The spire-like Cathedral Peak is described by many as simply awesome and is one of the most instantly-recognisable summits in a line of free-standing peaks that have been separated from the main escarpment by erosion. Climbing the peak itself, although a fairly rocky scramble, is possible in a day and doesn’t require any rope work - although to look at it from the valley below it appears fairly daunting and shouldn’t be attempted by novice hikers.

The area of Cathedral Peak, surrounded as it is by wilderness and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery imaginable - the peak is bordered by two wilderness areas the Mdedeleo and Mlambonja - is a retreat for hikers, nature lovers, mountain bikers and rock climbers. The selection of winding trails through mountain scenery, streams, waterfalls, pools and overgrown trees make wandering this terrain an addictive experience.

Mike’s Pass, a steep but very convenient access to the crest of the Little Berg, south of Cathedral Peak, allows one the most breathtaking views of the central Drakensberg, and one can manage the road without a 4x4 vehicle - quite an alternative to peak-viewing from the lengthy and rather taxing climbing option, for those who aren’t into hiking.

There’s a day walk to Rainbow Gorge, named for the kaleidoscope that forms in the spray from the stream, that is not only home to the fairies, but is also an easier alternative, and certainly a flatter one, to the summit of Cathedral Peak.