Barkly East is a pretty little town, known for its crisp winters as snow is commonplace, its breathtaking scenery and beautiful starry nights. Set in the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg, Barkley East is on the historic 157 km Aliwal North-LadyGrey-Barkly East railway line, which meanders through the Witteberg Mountains.

Known as the 'Switzerland of South Africa', Barkley East is not only one of the highest towns in South Africa but it is also close to the Tiffindell Ski Resort and staying here means a holiday filled with skiing or snowboarding. The resort supplements natural snowfalls with its own snowmaking equipment and professional ski instructors are on hand to show you how its done.

All is not devoted to the worship of snow in Barkly East, as the mountains also mean trout and fly fishing as well as some wonderful hikes and bird watching. There is a wild trout and partridge festival held in Barkley East every April, an interesting museum and magnificent examples of San Rock Art in surrounding sandstone caves.