There is something truly special about taking a caravan into the mountains. Whilst beach holidays certainly have their appeal, I have always found myself drawn to winding mountain roads, breathtaking viewpoints, the crisp morning air and the peaceful silence that only nature can provide.
Over the years, I have discovered that some of the most memorable caravan adventures are not necessarily the easiest journeys. In fact, the destinations that require a little extra effort often reward you with unforgettable scenery, incredible wildlife and a sense of escape that is hard to find anywhere else.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your next caravan getaway, here are some mountain caravan destinations that are absolutely worth the drive.
Mountain destinations offer a unique experience that combines adventure, relaxation and natural beauty.
One of the things I love most about taking a caravan into the mountains is that the scenery becomes part of the holiday. You wake up to views instead of buildings, the mornings can be wonderfully cool and there always seems to be another walking trail, viewpoint or quiet little corner waiting to be discovered. There is something particularly lovely about sitting outside with a cup of tea while the mountains slowly wake up around you.
Mountain destinations also give you plenty to do without making you feel as though you have to be busy every minute of the day. You can spend the morning hiking or exploring, stop to watch the birds or simply find a beautiful spot and sit for a while. And then there are those early mornings and evenings when the mountains seem to change colour as the sun comes and goes. Those are often the moments I remember long after the caravan has been packed away.
For me, there is nothing quite like waking up, stepping outside the caravan with a cup of tea and seeing mountains stretching into the distance.
When discussing mountain caravan destinations, it is impossible not to mention the Drakensberg.
The Drakensberg offers some of the most dramatic scenery in South Africa. Towering peaks, rolling valleys, waterfalls and crystal-clear streams make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Popular caravan-friendly areas include:
There is plenty to keep you occupied if you feel like getting out and exploring, from hiking and photography to fishing and birdwatching. And, of course, there is absolutely nothing wrong with doing none of those things at all. Sometimes a comfortable chair, a good book and a beautiful mountain view are more than enough.
The mountain views alone are worth every kilometre of the journey.
Hogsback feels like stepping into another world.
Known for its misty forests, waterfalls and magical atmosphere, this mountain village has long been associated with fantasy and creativity.
The drive itself is beautiful, winding through scenic countryside before reaching the forests of the Amathole Mountains.
There is plenty to explore here, from walks through the indigenous forests and hikes to beautiful waterfalls to browsing the local art galleries and craft markets. But Hogsback is also one of those places where you don’t necessarily need a packed itinerary. The misty forests and peaceful scenery make it very easy to slow down and simply enjoy being there.
I love Hogsback because it feels completely different from anywhere else in South Africa. The combination of mountain landscapes and ancient forests creates a truly unique experience.
Located in the Free State, Golden Gate Highlands National Park is famous for its striking sandstone cliffs that glow gold in the sunlight.
This destination offers some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the country, yet it remains surprisingly underrated.
There is plenty to do if you want to explore, including scenic drives, hiking, wildlife watching, horse riding and photography. For me, though, one of the great pleasures of Golden Gate is simply finding somewhere beautiful to stop and take it all in.
The park’s caravan facilities make it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding mountains.
Every time I visit, I find myself stopping repeatedly to take photographs because the landscape changes with every turn.
Golden Gate also makes a lovely base for exploring the nearby town of Clarens, which has to be one of my favourite places to visit.
The area surrounding Sani Pass is one of South Africa’s most spectacular mountain regions.
While not every section is suitable for caravans, there are excellent caravan parks and campsites nearby that allow visitors to explore the area safely.
The area offers plenty to explore, from mountain walks and birdwatching to taking an excursion into Lesotho and experiencing the scenery and culture of the region.
The dramatic scenery makes this one of the most rewarding mountain destinations in Southern Africa.
It also features the Highest Pub in Africa at the top of the pass, which is worth a visit. If you plan to visit, check the current access arrangements before setting off, as bookings are currently required for day visitors.
The Cederberg is unlike any other mountain destination.
Known for its unusual rock formations, ancient San rock art and rugged landscapes, it offers a completely different camping experience.
What makes the Cederberg special?
At night, the sky comes alive with stars, making this one of my favourite destinations for caravan camping.
Magoebaskloof is often overlooked, which is a shame because it is one of South Africa’s hidden gems.
There is plenty to do if you feel like being active, with forest walks, canopy tours, birdwatching, mountain biking and scenic drives all offering different ways to experience the area. I also love the fact that Magoebaskloof feels wonderfully green and peaceful, making it an appealing choice when you want something a little different from the more obvious mountain destinations.
The area combines mountains, forests, rivers and waterfalls into one spectacular destination. The cool climate and lush greenery make it feel worlds away from the busy pace of everyday life.
One of the largest green canyons in the world, Blyde River Canyon is a must-visit destination for caravan travellers. The surrounding mountain landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration.
Popular attractions include:
Every viewpoint seems more impressive than the last.
If you enjoy scenic drives as much as I do, this is one of those destinations where you could happily spend days simply following the road and stopping whenever the view takes your breath away.
Mountain travel requires a little extra planning. Before every trip, I make sure to check the following:
Mountain roads place additional strain on vehicles.
Always check:
A little preparation before you leave can make a big difference once you’re climbing winding mountain roads or travelling somewhere where help may not be close by.
Mountain weather can change rapidly.
Pack:
Even during summer, temperatures can drop unexpectedly.
I would much rather pack one extra warm jacket and blanket than wish I had brought them once the temperature drops. Mountain weather has a way of reminding you that summer doesn’t necessarily mean warm all day and all night.
Some mountain roads may have restrictions for larger caravans.
I always:
I also like knowing where we’re going to stop for fuel before setting off, particularly when towing. It is much nicer to enjoy the scenery when you aren’t quietly wondering how far the next filling station might be.
I think there is something wonderfully restorative about getting away to the mountains. Life can become noisy and busy without us even realising it, and sometimes the best thing we can do is put some distance between ourselves and the usual routines.
There is no constant traffic outside the caravan, no list of household jobs staring you in the face and no need to rush from one thing to the next. Instead, there is the sound of the wind, birds in the trees, a fire crackling outside and that first cup of tea in the morning when the mountains are still quiet.
Perhaps that is one of the reasons I enjoy mountain caravan trips so much. They give me permission to slow down. You can walk when you feel like walking, explore when you feel like exploring and spend an entire afternoon doing very little at all. And sometimes doing very little is exactly what a holiday is supposed to be about.
Some of my favourite family memories have happened during mountain caravan trips. They weren’t expensive attractions or luxury experiences. They were simple moments.
Some of those memories are as simple as watching a sunrise over a mountain valley or sitting around a campfire sharing stories long after we should probably have gone to bed. There have been unexpected wildlife sightings, cups of coffee enjoyed surrounded by nature and scenic drives where we didn’t even have a particular destination in mind. Sometimes the best part of the drive is simply seeing where the road takes you.
I also love the memories that involve my adult children. Hiking together, having a big family “fry up” breakfast under the trees or finding a shady spot to stretch out in a hammock for an afternoon snooze might not sound particularly exciting when you write them down, but those are the moments that stay with you. They are the little pieces of a holiday that you find yourself talking about years later.
Looking back, I think those are the moments that make caravan trips so special. It isn’t always the big attractions or the places you planned to visit that stay with you. Sometimes it is a morning coffee with a mountain view, a conversation around the fire or everyone sitting outside long after dinner because nobody is quite ready to go inside. Those are the memories that don’t cost anything extra, don’t require an itinerary and somehow become the stories we tell again years later.
For me, that is what makes a mountain caravan trip so special. It isn’t simply about finding somewhere beautiful to park the caravan. It is about the journey there, the first cup of coffee in the cold morning air, the meals cooked outside, the conversations that seem to last a little longer and those views that make you stop whatever you are doing just to look.
Some destinations are worth the drive because of what you find when you get there. Others are worth it because of how you feel while you are there. The mountains have a way of giving you both.
So, if you’re planning your next caravan adventure, don’t automatically choose the easiest destination to reach. Sometimes the winding road, the extra kilometres and the mountain waiting at the end are exactly what make the journey worthwhile.
Yes, but it’s important to ensure your towing vehicle is in good condition, check your brakes and tyres and research road conditions before travelling. Some steep mountain passes may not be suitable for larger caravans.
Pack warm clothing, waterproof jackets, extra blankets, emergency supplies, hiking shoes, binoculars, a first aid kit and enough food and water in case weather conditions change unexpectedly.
The Drakensberg and Golden Gate Highlands National Park both offer a range of outdoor activities that can suit families, including hiking, scenic drives and wildlife experiences. As with any mountain destination, I would check the specific campsite facilities and activities available before travelling with children.
They can be a lovely option during the warmer months, particularly in areas where the mountain climate is cooler. However, temperatures and weather can change quickly at higher elevations, so I would always check the forecast and pack accordingly.
For me, one of the nicest things about mountain caravan travel is the opportunity to slow down and step away from everyday routines. Sitting outside with a cup of coffee, enjoying the quiet and spending time with family can make a holiday feel wonderfully restorative. Everyone experiences travel differently, of course, but I certainly find that getting away to the mountains gives me the chance to switch off for a while.
Some of the best memories I’ve made while caravanning in the mountains have come from the simplest moments – enjoying a hot cup of tea at sunrise, relaxing in a comfortable chair while watching the birds or sleeping soundly knowing everything is set up properly. These are the products that help make those moments possible and that I happily recommend to fellow caravanners.
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Portable washline – This retractable clothesline is perfect for travel and camping. Comes with 12 clips for all your drying needs.
First Aid Kit – This first aid kit is perfect for keeping at home, in your car, or for camping!
Battery lanterns – Stay prepared with these portable camping lanterns! Great for camping, hiking, and emergencies.
Camping chairs – Great for camping, these chairs have a high weight capacity and padded seats!
Portable braai – Great for outdoor grilling when you want to cook something simple while you’re camping.
Portable fire pit – This fire pit is perfect for outdoor fun! Compact, portable and great for any backyard gathering.
Caravan levelling ramps – Check out these RV camper levelers, perfect for leveling your RV or camper. Comes with a handy storage bag!
Binoculars – These binoculars are perfect for any adventure! Great for bird watching or travel.
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