East coast calling

While the rest of the country still clings to their electric blankets, residents of KwaZulu-Natal are already swanning around in their cozzies. We pitch camp in the north and south of the province.

-  Leon Botha

The year's longest night in June is a distant memory, yet spring is stingy about giving us warmer days. And by now, most of us need a break as we head into the last few months before the December holidays. Perhaps those few days off in October is just the medicine you need.

We pitch camp at the Anchors Caravan Park at the lower end of the South Coast, and discover a peaceful campsite where you can recharge so you can return home filled with energy. And if the South Coast is simply too far away, head to the other side of Piet Retief, about a four-hour drive from Gauteng and 250 km from the North Coast. Get your first taste of summer at the mineral hot springs of Gooderson Natal Spa.

ANCHORS CARAVAN PARK

Terrace tales

The coastal town of Hibberdene lies 100 km south of Durban. Once you get there, you're where the corresponding latitude and longitude intersect. This line runs from around Lichtenburg diagonally through South Africa to Hibberdene in the south. Stick your toes in the sand at the coordinates $30.576 E30.576, where these two imaginary lines meet.

Cross the Mzimayi River just one kilometre down the beach, after which the Anchors Caravan Park sits on your right against the overgrown koppie. The river flows past the resort and empties into the Indian Ocean, 180 m to the left of the bridge.

The turn-off to Anchors is 700 m past the bridge where you enter the residential area. The road ascends the koppie, through vegetation so thick you'll think you're in the Amazon. The blue sky is barely even visible. Turn right almost at the top of the koppie and arrive at the gate 100 m later.

Although the resort isn't located right on the beach, the ocean is barely a five-minute walk away. It's actually a blessing in disguise, as the wind won't get you here you can leave your storm straps back home.