A chain of rugged basalt heights complete with dramatic peak and gorges, accessible foothills , a wealth of flora and fauna and a generous helping of resorts borders Natal on the west. Here, where the air is like wine, you will find crystal clear trout streams, wild flowers, waterfalls, hiking and horseback trails, and bushman’s rock art. (more…)

So, as it turns out, Top Gear hits Durban on 15 – 16 June 2013! If you feel the need for speed come on over to Durb’s for some fun in the sun!

Great cars, great music, pretty girls and lots of beer and Braai’s happening over that weekend.  If you are looking for accommodation well then you have come to the right place FINALLY! (more…)

With rolling hills and, massive water and looming mountains, the view from Qwantani Resort set on the shores of the picturesque Serkfontein Dam within the Sterkfontein Nature Reserve, are truly breathtaking.

Watch a storm come down and change the nature of the tranquil waters. The golden hills in winter are just as appealing as the green summers ones and watching a yacht or two glide silently add to the feeling of peace and tranquility. (more…)

For those of you who don’t know much about Mpumalanga, here is a little History of the land, and some really nice places to stay at while on  holiday. (more…)

So we all know that Easter is around the corner. A time for eating chocolate bunnies and not really worrying about ones waistline.

If you have not yet booked your Easter accommodation, we recommend you do it NOW before it is too late. Call Optima on 0860 333 666 to find your dream holiday resort. In the meantime, take a few minutes to relax and read this article. (more…)

Today, I felt adventurous and wanted to write about some of the crazy things we can do, as South Africans and international travelers visiting our beautiful country.  Activities every person should experience at least once in their lifetime! Well, here goes… (more…)

Here in South Africa, we do Christmas a little different.  We don’t have a ‘White Christmas’, with land covered in snow, and Santa on a Sled.  Here, we have Santa driving a Land Rover with his Reindeer huddled in the back, all trying to steal a chance at flapping their tongues in the wind.

Instead of roast Chicken or Turkey and Cranberry sauce, we Braai Chops and Wors with a side dish of Salad Greens, Baked Beans, Spicey Curry dishes, Pap and freshly baked rolls. (more…)

The Comrades Marathon is a cherished national treasure and attracts thousands of runners, spectators and television viewers every year. We invite you to participate in this great event and experience the worlds greatest race.

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Travelling safely in South Africa is vitally important to all, foreigners and locals.  Knowing your country and its people is important for general day to day interaction and survival.  But in this article we cover ‘Knowing South Africa’ for travellers.

South Africa is one of the top countries to have welcomed ‘Going Green’ with open arms.  So why not ‘Go Green’ whilst you travel? Keep in mind your carbon footprint, what you leave behind, and what you can add to this beautiful country. Optima Breaks is proudly South African and supports Going Green. (more…)