Schoemanskloof: River Landscape and Transitions

River landscape between slopes and rock pools

The Crocodile River shapes Schoemanskloof over a stretch of approximately 55 km, running through the valley to Montrose Falls. Steep slopes and dense riverside forests line its banks. The section that runs through Schoemanskloof also features large rock pools, riffles and rapids. Families who enjoy taking in different types of scenery will find distinct riverside features here, rather than a single, uniform backdrop. At Montrose Falls, the Crocodile River and the Elands River meet.

These features give this stretch of river its own character: riverside forest and steep slopes lie alongside rock pools and moving water. The Crocodile River is therefore a natural focal point for travellers who choose Schoemanskloof for its scenery. The approximate length of 55 km describes the river's course through Schoemanskloof to Montrose Falls; it is not a measurement of the length of a particular route or outing.

Road, valley and notable transitions

The area's roads are also connected to its landscape. The Schoemanskloof Highway is one of the most scenic roads in Mpumalanga and marks the transition from the Highveld to the Lowveld. The scenic Schoemanskloof Pass runs through the valley. Travellers who enjoy making the drive through this landscape part of their trip can take the highway and pass into account when choosing Schoemanskloof as a destination.

Another notable landmark is Old Joe: the painted rock is associated with Schoemanskloof and marks the transition from the Highlands region to the Lowveld. Together with the landscape along the Crocodile River, it brings the area's character to life in a different way: it is not just about the river and its banks, but also about a named landmark with its own connection to the transition into the Lowveld.

Labyrinth, dining and local landmarks

At Old Joe's Kaia, a traditional labyrinth with seven paths is located in the lower wooded area. The paths are lined with various kinds of indigenous plants, and a spring-fed stream flows through the labyrinth. The seven paths are a distinctive feature for anyone who enjoys including an unusual discovery in their travel conversations. The plants and stream also give the labyrinth a connection to nature that differs from the river's rock pools and rapids. Visitors can stop for a meal at Old Joe's Kaia.

Another historical landmark is Joubert en Seuns Padstal, which was established on Geluk Farm in 1966. Anyone interested in the names and stories associated with a destination can consider this place alongside Old Joe and the labyrinth as a separate point of interest.

Activities and recurring events

Hiking is one of the activities mentioned in Schoemanskloof. Golf is another possible interest: the Mountain Links Golf Course near Drakenzicht is a nine-hole course with 18 tees. These two details describe different types of activity; which one suits your trip depends on your personal interests.

Travellers who take events into account when planning have two recurring occasions to consider: the Schoemanskloof Citrus Festival is held every year at Wolwekrans Lodge. Schoemanskloof is also the starting point for the annual Lowveld Crocodile Canoe Marathon. The festival and marathon each have their own focus: one is associated with Wolwekrans Lodge, and the other with Schoemanskloof as its starting point.

When choosing a holiday apartment in Schoemanskloof, you can first consider which aspect of the destination matters most to you: the Crocodile River and its different features, the transitions and landmarks, or an interest in hiking, golf and events.

Discover more destinations

If you would like to include more destinations in your search: Steenbok, Manyeleti Camp, Mbombela, Weimershoek, White River, Bushbuckridge, Louw's Creek and Emoyeni.

For the broader travel overview: Ehlanzeni.