Maclear

The beautiful mountains of the Eastern Cape Highlands in Maclear give rise to 1000km of pristine river frontage – not just any river frontage, but waters that are so well stocked with trout and yellowfish that it attracts fly fishermen from around the world.

The Maclear River Festival, held annually in the second last weekend in May, had its inception in 1996, when the club decided to have an event to celebrate and showcase the rivers of the Maclear and Ugie area. It has, over time, become branded as the “The Rapture of the River”, after the book by Sydney Hey about his fly fishing exploits in the area in the early 1900’s. Visitors to this festival are treated to two days of guided river fishing, country-style meals in the evening, and lots of fun and camaraderie with fellow anglers who love the pursuit of wild river trout. The Ugie Ladies Flyfishing Festival is held annually over the long-weekend in September.

The custodian of most of these waters is the Maclear Fly fishing Club – Contact Theuns Botha (073 674 3326) or Noel Wagenaar (045 932 1038). Day permits are available at Stone Junction Coffee Shop.

Maclear was first chosen as a favoured place to stay by dinosaurs and then our ancient ancestors. Dinosaur footprints and skeleton site and one of the best preserved rock art sites in South Africa are food for the archaeologist in you.

For golf lovers, there is a well-kept nine hole golf course. The third hole is considered one of the most spectacular in the Eastern Cape, and if you are in Maclear in November, try your luck at the Kapaailand Classic golf tournament. Visitors welcome. Contact Matthew Burger 082 7528242 or The Country Club, Tel: +27 45 932 1566/1138 for info.

The 4×4 Bastervoetpad that links up with the Barkly Pass, offers a driving challenge to the off-road fraternity as well as ample photographic opportunities.

Hike the Woodcliffe Cave Trail in the lovely Joelshoek Valley approximately 22km outside Maclear. Mountains, waterfalls, stunning scenery and crystal clear streams make this 2,3,4 or 5 day hike a popular choice.

The Ecowa Trail, 27km outside Elliot, is a challenging 18km hike that offers splendid views, cascading streams, precipices and rocky ravines. It starts below Gatberg (a sandstone peak with a hole through it) and ends at Barkly Pass.  No more than 10 hikers are allowed on the trail at any one time. Direction: From Elliot take the Ugie / Maclear Road (R56), drive 19 km, turn left to the Gatberg at the mushroom sign and follow the gravel road and mushroom signs for another 8 km. No overnight accommodation. Contact: Tel: 078 814 1007.

Abseiling at the the spectacular Tsitsa Falls, zipline, kayaking and other eco adventures are offered by The Falls Adventures.

Tractor Museum- Situate in President Street Ugie, 22km from Maclear displays Mr Bob Kaschulas lifetime of passion for old tractors. There are +- 50 Tractors on display. Entrance Free. Open weekdays.

See the Sivewright Bridge in Station Street. This magnificent sandstone bridge is a national monument.