Eastern Cape Provincial Article - South African Vacations

San Rock Art: There are several superb rock art sites in the Rhodes area.
However, as most of the sites are situated on private farms, viewing is by prior
arrangement only. For more information, contact the local tourism office.
San Rock Art at Buttermead: This San rock art site is close to the Martindell
site, easily accessible by foot and includes images of eland, birds, the
“lightning bird” and distorted human figures.
San Rock Art at Martindell: The San rock art at Martindell is one of the best
preserved in the country and includes scenes of a hunt.
STERKSPRUIT (including Herschel)
This charming mountain town was part of the former “independent” Republic of
Transkei.
CULTURAL/COMMUNITY TOURISM
Xhosa Traditional Village: Visit this traditional village to gain insight into the
traditional Xhosa way of life. Visitors who want to see traditional dancing or
enjoy some of the traditional cuisine need to make prior arrangements.
HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE
Witteberge Mission Station: This mission station was the birthplace of the
renowned South African author, Olive Schreiner, author of “The Story of an
African Farm”.
STERKSTROOM
The small town was established, like so many others, out of the need for a
new Dutch Reformed Church parish. Its name, meaning “strong stream”,
refers to the Hex River that runs through the town. Sterkstroom is situated on
the main railway line from the coast to Johannesburg. The town boasts
several historical buildings dating from the beginning of the twentieth century.
ADVENTURE AND SPORT
Bass-fishing: The Henry Edward Hales Waterfowl Reserve allows bass-fishing
within its borders.
Hiking: There is a three-hour hiking trail laid out in the Henry Edward Hales
Waterfowl Reserve and, for the more adventurous, there are hikes through the
remote wilderness of the Black Eagle Nature Reserve.
Hunting: Deer-stalking, trophy-hunting and partridge-shooting are allowed in
the Black Eagle Nature Reserve.
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