Perched on the edge of the Drakensberg escarpment, the hamlet of Swinburne is the last (or first), town in the Free State before you enter (or leave) Natal. Conveniently situated just off the N3, the national road linking Durban and Gauteng, Swinburne lies 20 kilometres east of Harrismith towards the seaside town of Durban 2.5 hours away.

This is magnificent mountain country offering the usual mountain pursuits of rambles, hikes and rock climbing or scenic drives to view bushman paintings in secluded caves.

Swinburne’s proximity to Harrismith allows visitors to take advantage of all the amenities and activities available here, including access to the 18 hole golf course which is the third oldest course in the country.

The Sterkfontein Dam, a short drive from Swinburne, offers a variety of water sports and excellent fishing opportunities, while The Spioenkop Dam and Nature Reserve offer nature lovers the chance to view Rhino, Giraffe and numerous species of Buck in their natural surroundings.

With the historic town of Ladysmith situated less than an hours drive away, Swinburne travellers can relive history by visiting the battle sites which abound on The Natal Battlefields Route.