Stutterheim

Stutterheim is situated just 70km from East London, at the foot of the eastern slopes of the Kologha Mountains, in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Surrounded by the Khologha Forests, the second largest indigenous forests in S.A. after Knysna, the whole area is one of the most naturally beautiful parts of the country. Mountains, rivers, waterfalls, dams and farmland are ideal for eco-tourism.

In the last decade Stutterheim received widespread recognition for its achievements in community building, community development and sound local government.

The town’s primary industries are farming (cattle, sheep and citrus) and forestry and associated industries such as saw milling. The Dohne Merino sheep breed was developed at the Dohne Agricultural Research Institute just north of Stutterheim. The last several decades have also seen the development of a successful light manufacturing industry and recently, the establishment of a growing tourist industry.

The richness of the flora and fauna of Stutterheim and environs offers a feast for the nature lover. Whether your interests are wild flowers, birds, butterflies or just hiking and exploring in breath-taking landscapes, the wealth of nature that you will experience in Stutterheim will astonish you.

The climate of the district is mild and benign – plentiful rainfall to sustain the lush forests and grassland, never too hot in summer or too cold in winter, with many glorious sunny days to explore the beauty at your doorstep.

Things to do in Stutterheim

Enjoy top notch horse trails in this scenic part of the world. It is not surprising that Ginger Driver of Hillside Horse Trails identified Stutterheim as an ideal spot for a horse establishment. The indigenous forests are perfect – dappled trails, mountain views, waterfalls, flora and fauna and birds galore. Ginger’s rides cater to all levels of experience, so if you are a beginner, you are in the right hands.

The Khologha Indigenous Forests are a magical outdoor experience, with excellent trails for hiking, biking and horse riding. The second largest indigenous forest after the Knysna Forest, the wonderful canopies keep you shaded and are home to wildlife and birds, waterfalls and streams.

 The Stutterheim Stationary Engine Museum is believed to have one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of restored stationary engines, all in mint running condition, in the world.

Halfway between Keiskamma Hoek and Stutterheim, at the foot of Mount Kubusie, is the Gubu Dam, reached by a magnificent forest drive. Fly Fishing, boating, hiking and mountain bike trails are all on offer, and a magnificent camp site awaits the visitor.

One of the Eastern Cape’s best hidden treasures, Wriggleswade Dam lies nestled between the rolling grasslands of the Amabele farming area. Stretching across 17km and covering 1000 hectares, this expanse of water has fast become a haven for avid bass fishermen and those who enjoy water sports.

Experience true Xhosa hospitality on the delightful day trip to Mgwali Village, the oldest village in the Eastern Cape. Taste traditional food and enjoy the entertainment and true African culture. Visit the market place for traditional garments and local crafts, visit the museum and sangomas and enjoy traditional lunch cooked in 3 legged pots. Opening hours: Day tours by arrangement. Telephone: +27 (0)43 726-3748 or +27 (0)82 920-8040

The Stutterheim Country Club for a round of golf or to have a drink in their friendly pub. This course has been consistently rated as one of the best 9-hole courses in the region and is both challenging and affordable. You will find the course on Ken Muzzel Avenue.

Due to its rich biodiversity Stutterheim is a must destination for bird watchers. Many species can be seen within a relatively short distance of each other due to the fact that the Amahlathi region encompasses 5 different biomes. These biomes are Southern Mistbelt Forest, Amathole Montane and Mistbelt Grassland, Kei and Eastern Cape Escarpment Thicket. Each of these boasts rare and endemic birds including the Cape Parrot.

For more information on the Amatola Region, visit ShowMe Amatola.