Eastern Cape Provincial Article - South African Vacations

Three characteristic aspects of San rock art, i.e. idiosyncratic images,
paintings of colonists and significantly differentiated human figures, are all
represented in the rock art of the Maclear/Ugie area.
Dinosaur footprints: One of the most excellent examples of dinosaur tracks
can be found on Oakleigh Farm, north of Maclear. The eight tracks on this
farm are believed to be at least 200 million years old and are the earliest
evidence of the existence of dinosaurs in Southern Africa.
San rock art at Chamisso: One of the best San rock art sites in the area is
situated at Chamisso, on Mondi’s, (North-East Cape Forests) land. A 4x4
vehicle is needed to reach the site. The paintings are mostly of eland
antelope.
San rock art at Craigmore: The images at the Craigmore site on the
Prentjiesberg Hiking Trail have definite supernatural meanings, an aspect
characteristic of San art.
San rock art at Rainbow Retreat: Situated near Ugie, Rainbow Retreat offers a
scenic walk to the site of the rock paintings and the dinosaur footprint close
by.
San rock art at Woodcliff trails: Visit a large painted rock art site and pass on
to a second site with fewer paintings but with accommodation facilities.
NATURAL WONDERS
Gatberg: Wind erosion has created a large hole at the summit of the mountain
called Gatberg (“Hole Mountain”), situated south-west of Maclear.
MIDDELBURG
The name of this strategically-placed Karoo town means “town in the middle”.
It was established in 1852 in the middle of the area created by the towns of
Graaff-Reinet, Cradock, Steynsburg, Colesberg and Richmond. Like many
other towns in the area, it was also founded as a result of the need for a new
Dutch Reformed community. The town’s uniqueness lies in the fact that,
despite its position in the semi-desert, no water restrictions have ever had to
be imposed. The rich supply of borehole water has created a permanent oasis
where vegetation flourishes.
ADVENTURE AND SPORT
Hiking: Several well-known hiking trails have been mapped through the
splendid Upper Karoo scenery. The keen hiker can choose from the
Kompasberg, Ventershoek and Trans-Karoo Trails. For more information
contact the Middelburg Municipal Offices.
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