Port Edward is a sleepy little town in an awe-inspiring location. Lying in the southern part of KwaZulu Natal, it not only has beautiful sea-views and access to loads of clean beaches, but is surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation typical of the Hibiscus Coast.
The Hibiscus Coast, which stretches from just south of Port Edward up to Port Shepstone, is a short stretch of KwaZulu Natal coastline which is characterised by its colourful mix of blooming flowers set against tropical greenery and the changing blue hues of the Indian Ocean.
Port Edward, while very much alive in this sense, is quiet most of the year and then becomes inundated with holiday-makers over the Christmas and New Year’s Eve season. It also receives an influx of people during the annual salmon run which happens between May and July.
Port Edward is a great choice for people who wish to explore the quirks and splendour of this section of coast. Within 20 kilometres of Port Edward, the Lake Eland Game Reserve, set in the Oribi Gorge, is one of the must-see attractions of the area. Within the reserve you are guaranteed to spot zebra and wildebeest, as well as giraffe and the elusive eland, if you’re lucky. The park also offers some spectacular viewing sites over the gorge and if you are so inclined, horse-riding and rental mountain bikes are available in the reserve.
Under 50 kilometres away in Margate, golf enthusiasts can practise their swing at San Lameer, the first golf course to be developed in South Africa. Visit the Riverbend Crocodile Farm to learn a bit more about these intriguing creatures.
The Umtamvuna suspension bridge, as the oldest steel suspension bridge in South Africa, may be of interest to engineers and is significant as the bridge which connects the provinces of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal.
There are a number of blue flag beaches in and around Port Edward but even if you hardly set foot outside your hotel, your time will not be wasted. If you are staying for awhile, take up one of the many self-catering options around town and make it your home away from home.
The sleepy atmosphere and beautiful surroundings of Port Edwards make it the ideal place for those wanting to just chill out and relax.
