Harrismith Attractions
Harrismith is an agricultural center and an important traffic hub, situated at the junction of N 3 (Johannesburg-Durban) with N 5, which runs from Harrismith to Bloemfontein. Harrismith has no particular tourist attractions apart from its Wild Flower Garden, but it is a good center for excursions to the northern Natal Drakensberg and the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Harrismith was originally founded in 1849 near Vrededorp, but subsequently moved steadily nearer the Wilge River, thus solving the problem of water supply. The town was named after Sir Harry Smith, Governor of the Cape Colony from 1848 to 1852. During the 19th C gold and diamond rush Harrismith became a post town and thereafter developed even more rapidly.
Harrismith was originally founded in 1849 near Vrededorp, but subsequently moved steadily nearer the Wilge River, thus solving the problem of water supply. The town was named after Sir Harry Smith, Governor of the Cape Colony from 1848 to 1852. During the 19th C gold and diamond rush Harrismith became a post town and thereafter developed even more rapidly.
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Drakensberg Botanic Garden
This garden highlights the three different zones found at changing elevations in the Drakensberg. Some of the garden is tended while other areas have been left natural and have hiking trails.
Harrismith's Surrounding
Around Harrismith are the Sterkfontein Dam and the Mount Everest Game Reserve.
Mount Everest Game Reserve
In a hilly region 20km/12.5mi northeast of Harrismith is the privately owned Mount Everest Game Reserve (area 1,000ha/2,500ac), home to more than 22 species of game. Visitors are taken round the reserve in open cross-country vehicles. There is accommodation for visitors in holiday houses and huts.
Facilities
On-site accomodations
Mountain Race
An important sporting event is the Harrismith Mountain Race, held annually on October 10th, whose origins go back to the Boer War. Near Harrismith is a hill, the Platberg (2,377m/7,799ft), of which a British officer, Major Belcher, spoke disparagingly, referring to it as "our little hill". Thereupon a citizen of the town, annoyed, bet Belcher that he could not reach the top in an hour. Belcher won the bet and established a prize for all future winners of the race.
Sterkfontein Dam
25km/15mi south of Harrismith is the Sterkfontein Dam, a favorite haunt of water sports enthusiasts and anglers (trout). The road from Harrismith into the northern Natal Drakensberg runs past this reservoir.
Town Hall
In a park in the town center is the Town Hall, a sandstone building erected in 1907. Near it lies a petrified tree, 27m/90ft long, which is believed to be 150 million years old.
