Monks Cowl

The Monks Cowl area is named after the peak of the same name and lies in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park between the imposing Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peaks. The landscape is characterized by rolling grasslands at the foothills of the towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls of the mighty Drakensberg.

There are excellent hiking opportunities catering for the casual hiker as well as for the more experienced and adventurous. For the not so adventurous, the lower berg offers easy walks to Stable Cave and Zulu Cave. The serious hiker can take the difficult route up Grey’s Pass to Inkosozana Cave at the top of Champagne Castle. There are a number of routes in this 22000ha nature reserve including places like Sterkspruit Falls, the Gorge or up to the Sphinx on the Little Berg. The weather can change very suddenly so hikers should be well equipped.

There are thirty campsites with barbecue facilities, 20 of which are electrified. All campsites have ablution blocks and facilities for dishwashing and laundry. There is also a tea garden and a curio shop at the campsite near the entrance gate.

Nearby towns are Bergville and Winterton.

Getting there: from the south, take the N3 to Estcourt and turn left at the Estcourt North/Giant’s Castle off-ramp. Take a left towards Loskop and at the 4-way stop turn left onto the R600. The road ends at Monks Cowl – allow 20 to 30 minutes from the 4-way crossing.

From the north take the N3 to Harrismith. Turn right onto the N5 towards Bethlehem/Bloemfontein. After 5km turn left onto the Bergville/Oliviershoek Pass road. At Winterton turn right onto the R600 and follow the road to Monks Cowl.

For bookings tel: +27 (0)33 845 1000 or Email