These days, Pietermaritzburg is, happily, better known for the fact that it is between here and Durban that the famous and grueling Comrades Marathon and the Dusi Canoe Marathon take place every year, drawing participants and spectators from around the world.
The big Midmar Dam, near Howick on the outskirts of Pietermaritzburg, hosts the enormously popular annual Midmar Mile swim, as well as other activities such as sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, canoeing and boating. The legendary Art in the Park annual Exhibition also been taking place here since 1962. The annual Mandela Day Marathon starting at Manaye Hall in Imbali Township and finishing at the Mandela Capture site in Howick, is growing both in numbers and popularity.
One of the prettiest parts of the country is the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, which starts just north of Pietermaritzburg. The climate in this area is markedly different from that of the coastal region. During the crispy autumns and winters, the leaves and grasslands turn burnt orange and yellow, and in the spring and summer the gently rolling hillsides are covered in carpets of wild flowers. There are green, well-watered farmlands, lovely streams, rivers and waterfalls, such as the Howick, Woodhouse and Karkloof falls, and thick indigenous and commercial forests. This natural beauty is ideal for horse riding, hiking, swimming,biking, quad biking,fishing, and of course, the exciting Karkloof Canopy Tour.
Boasting an outdoor pool, Emfuleni Bed and Breakfast in Pietermaritzburg offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking for guests who drive.
Guests at the bed and breakfast can enjoy a Full English/Irish breakfast.
KwaZulu-Natal Museum is 6 km from Emfuleni Bed and Breakfast, while Comrades Marathon House is 7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Pietermaritzburg Airport, 11 km from the accommodation.
• Howick Falls
• Bisley Valley Nature Reserve
• Ghandi Statue
• Maritzburg Golf Club
• KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden
• The Valley of a Thousand Hills and more...