The panorama route
The road R36 to the north marks the beginning of this scenic route which ends at Graskop 72 km further south. It crosses a region that belongs to the protected natural area of Blyde Canyon . The views and the mountains offered by this route will take your breath away . You will also discover original geological formations ( the three rondavels , The Bourne luck potholes , the Pinnacle .. to name just a few ) . Don’t miss the new Grakskop lift . It is a must-see attraction . You will be able to dive into a Gorge surrounded by lush indigenous vegetation thanks to a stunning elevator or enjoy activities like a 130 meters long zip line… If you extend your route to Sabie, 20 km further south , you will drive the famous waterfall route and enjoy wonderful ones . To do this route, you can choose your own car or one of our partners for an informative guided tour. For now, I’m taking you virtually on the scenic route. Let’s go !!
The three Rondavels
These three rocky columns ( mostly dolomite and quartz) that also nicknamed the three sisters proudly dominate the landscape at more than 700 meters high. They are reminiscent of the native Zulu huts called rondavels. They are sometimes nicknamed with the expression “Chiefs troublesomes wives”. Indeed, the flat top peak located right next to the 3 sisters represents Chief Mapjaneng. The three rondavels offer a beautiful mosaic of color between the green of the vegetation which covers them and that of orange and ocher of their rocky base. Stopping at the Rondavels is therefore seeing one of the most beautiful panoramas of South Africa . Expect to be breathless at the view of the Blyde River Canyon!
The bourne luck potholes
Another geological curiosity that Mother Nature offers us. Located at the beginning of the Blyde canyon, more precisely at the confluence between the Blyde river and Treur, these are kinds of large pools dug in the limestone rock by erosion. They owe their name to an unlucky gold digger Tom Bourke who was convinced to find gold there. This was not the case but his name has not been forgotten thanks to this wonder of nature. Many wooden bridges will offer you a magnificent view of these potholes located several ten meters below. The colors of the place are also spectacular and vary depending on the time of day and the composition of the river water. There are a multitude of shades of ocher, brown and amber, that will be offered to your eyes. You already understood that this is a must-see stop along this scenic route …
Bourne luck : the potholes
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Bourne luck potholes: The waterfall
Enjoy the waterfall route
You will find a lot of waterfalls along the panorama route , especially near Sabie town .Most owe their name to the nationality of the miners who flocked to the area in the 19th century.Each waterfall has a specific shape and the observation points are also different.
So for Berlin Falls and Lisbon Falls, you will have an aerial view while it is from their base that you can admire the spectacle of the lone creek falls or the horse shoe falls . Definitely , you will find the waterfalls road gorgeous .Do you want more in-depth information about these wonders, click on the button below.
Waterfall route : Gorgeous falls
Waterfall route : Near Sabie
Waterfall route : Wonderful viewpoint
Pilgrim rest
Located 10 minutes drive from Grasktop, the town of Pilgrim Rest was born during the Gold Wine Rush of the 1800s. When visiting Pilgrim Rest, you will feel the special atmosphere of this era . It is also a classified site (National Heritage site) and which is therefore part of the South African heritage. You can visit a beautifully preserved and decorated museum which tells about this fascinating time. In addition, pancakes are a specialty of this charming city! It is therefore an essential halt on the scenic route.
Pilgrim rest : the Gold rush
Pilgrim rest : The town , special atmosphere
Pilgrim rest : Enjoy this national heritage site
The Graskop lift
It is a whole new must-see of this scenic route. This lift will take you 50 meters down into a beautiful Gorge. At the bottom of the gorge, thanks to elevated walkways , you will walk through a lush indigneous forest . The must-see of this path ,a magnificent viewpoint of the Graskop waterfall. Thanks to carefully placed panels, you will learn a lot on the local flora and fauna.
Not to be missed, two attractions for adrenaline junkies: a 68-meter bungee jump , and a zip line ! You will also enjoy a 52 meters suspension bridge between the north and south edges of the Graskop Gorge . This bridge will provide you a dramatic view on the gorge. Below a galery to illustrate the beauty of this stop along the panorama route .
Graskop lift : The zip line
Graskop lift : the 50 meters lift
Graskop lift : Bungee jumping
So much to discover...
This scenic road well deserves its name . Indeed, you will find fantastic views at just about every turn . That of God’s Window will give you stunning views over South Africa’s Lowveld and you will be surprised by dramatic cliffs that plunge 700 meters . If you enjoy a good weather , your view will reach as far as Kruger Park. Do you want one wonder more , do not miss the Pinnacle, an impressive column of quartizte rock .… This route is undoubtly a must-see for nature lovers with so many hiking trails and adventure activities in every town. Click on the button bellow to access the section of your blog dedicated to this amazing road
God’s windows : stunning viewpoint
God’s windows : Trail in lush and indigenous vegetation
What to do : The Pinnacle
