12 Amazing Facts about Amahlathi.

1)  The indigenous forest at Stutterheim is the second largest expanse of natural forest in South Africa.

2)   Amahlathi is the only place in the world where 3 species of cycads grow in vast colonies, in close proximity to each other in the wild.  They are Encephalartos friederici-guilielmi, princeps and caffra.

3) The diversity of environment in the Amahlathi region provides shelter for several endangered  or rare species; the Cape Parrot, Samango Monkey, Hogsback Frog, Amatola Toad, Kubusie Damsel, Keilandia (scorpion), Golden Mole,  and Penningtons Opal Butterfly.

4)   A new plant, part of the Fire Lily or Cyranthus family has been discovered in the Quanti area.   It has been named Cyranthus macmasteri after Cameron Mc Master who found it.

One of the Eastern Cape’s best hidden treasures, Wriggleswade Dam lies nestled between the rolling grasslands of the Amabele farming area. Stretching across 17km and covering 1000 hectares, this expanse of water has fast become a haven for avid fishermen and those who enjoy water sports.

The idea of building a dam was first conceived as early as 1959 but took a further 26 years before the work began. When the farm Wriggleswade was chosen above two other sites, excavation started on the first tunnels in 1985. More than 2000 jobs were created in an area with high unemployment constructing 100km of tunnels and canals which would carry water to King Williams Town, Berlin and East London. By the end of 1991 the wall was completed and the Kubusie River flowed into the area and started to saturate the land, but it was not until 29 February 1996 that it was filled to capacity for the first time.

Roger Carter, the manager and head chef, has used his passion for cuisine to create a vast and varied menu at exceptionally competitive prices. From light Greek breakfasts to the Full English or House breakfast which keeps even the energetic hiker satisfied all day, a simple breakfast soon becomes a delightful experience.

Below is a listing of all the accommodation on the eScape route, with pricings, star rating, GPS co-ordinates and contact details included. If you wish to find out more about a specific location, you can click on the “Click here for more information” link to be forwarded onto the full article.

You will also be able to request a booking from any of the establishments by clicking on the BOOKING REQUEST button. Note that your request will be e-mailed directly to the establishments