Belfast

 

EMAKHAZENI LOCAL MUNICIPALITY

 

za-flag1 CREST

BELFAST
Belfast a small town in Mpumalanga South Africa which was established in 1890 on the farm Tweefontein and named after Belfast in Ireland, by the farms owner Richard O Neill, member of a well-known Ulster family.

Belfast is one of the coldest places in South Africa and renowned for its trout fishing and highveld scenery. Near theDrakensberg escarpment and 210km east of Pretoria. The grassveld district is known for cattle, dairy and sheep farming. The wattle and bluegum plantations are the oldest in Mpumalanga. The town also boasts a tulip nursery that attracts large numbers of visitors in spring. Coal, black granite, fire clay and kaolin are mined. Large deposits of chrome and iron are found in the area.

Many rivers and streams rise on this watershed. They are clear and cold and are renowned for their excellent trout (and bass) fishing conditions. It lies at an altitude of over 2 000 m and is the highest point on the railway line between the Witwatersrand and the coast.

Activities

  • Berg en Dal Monument: Anglo Boer war monument
  • Hiking Trails: Bospoort two-day trail through lush landscape. There are also the Rapids Waterfall Trail and Komati River Lodge Ravine trail.
  • Tulip Nursery: This is the largest in the country.
  • Trout Fishing: Belfast is a prime trout fishing destination.
  • Kwasimkulu: An archaeological site of the Ndzunda-Ndebele.
  • Tulip Nursery
  • Lakenvlei Lodge
  • Trout Stream

The trout, tulip and granite capital of Mpumalanga has become the gateway to the escarpment and the Highlands Meander. A major attraction to this sub-alpine town is the "flower farm" - an unforgettable sight in September when tulips and daffodils are in full bloom. Belfast's black granite, originating from one of only two open quarries in the world, has become known as the purest deposit internationally.

But ultimately, Belfast is renowned for its fly fishing. The spectacular Rapids Waterfall, is part of the picturesque surrounds enjoyed by fisherfolk and hikers alike.