Pietermaritzburg

Pietermaritzburg, the Capital of KwaZulu Natal, is situated in the Msunduzi river valley and is rich with historical attractions, culture and natural countryside beauty. Pietermaritzburg, known as the "City of Flowers" for its beautiful azaleas, roses and stunning purple Jacaranda trees that line the city streets, hosts the annual Spring Open Gardens which attracts visitors worldwide.  It is home to the famous Dusi Canoe Marathon and internationally admired Comrades Marathon, a 90 km endurance road race. It is the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal's many game reserves and Drakensberg Mountain resorts and is a short drive to both the North and South Coast making it a good balance between city and country life.

Location
Pietermaritzburg is centrally located on the N3 National Road, approximately 80 km north of Durban and 100 km from Durban's International airport. Pietermaritzburg is a short drive to the vast Drakensburg Mountain ranges and KwaZulu-Natal's game reserves. It stands on the edge of the wonderful Midlands Meander, a great scenic drive with a variety of places to stop for art, craft, teas, meals, and local produce as well as country accommodation. There is also an airport with daily flights to Johannesburg. It offers homeowners the best of both worlds, being one hour from the beautiful Drakensberg and one hour from the warm Indian ocean.

Schools
Pietermaritzburg is home to some of the most prestigious schools in the country, namely Maritzburg College, Cordwalles Preparatory School, The Wykeham Collegiate, St Charles College, St Johns DSG, Epworth and nearby are world renowned St Annes Diocesan College, Hilton College and Michaelhouse.   

Medical facilities
The city also has excellent private and public hospitals, some being
Medicross Medical Centre
My Health Medical Centre
Capmed Centre
Civic Centre Municipal Clinic

Activities
There is a lot to discover and experience in this beautiful area. Enjoy a family drive through the beautiful Tala Private Game Reserve, explore the African Bird of Prey Sanctuary, view the amazing Tatham Art Gallery pieces, and enjoy quaint or sophisticated artisan restaurants serving delicious foods and fine coffees. Go on family walks and picnics with your 4-legged friends down to Wylie Park. In nearby surrounding areas, you will enjoy, Albert Falls Nature Reserve, Howick Falls, Midmar Nature Reserve, Queen Elizabeth Park and Worlds View, situated at the top of Pietermaritzburg offering exceptional views of the city.

Mountain biking trails are abundant, and cyclists, runners and paddlers enjoy living in this athlete's paradise where every alternate year Comrades Marathon runners line the streets at City Hall to start their down run to Durban, Dusi Canoeists eagerly await the start of a 3-day 120 km gruelling race and where the start of the Amashova cycling race was born.

Other exciting calendar events are the Royal Agricultural Show, Art in the Park, Cars in the Park, the Garden and Leisure Show and the BMX World Championships.

Restaurants
For the food enthusiasts, Pietermaritzburg has restaurants that cater to every palette.  Indulge in local cuisine at Sagewood, Coffeeberry, Lakeside Café and Tandoor kitchen. It is a foodies delight with many TripAdvisor Award Winning Restaurants to choose from.

Shopping
Midlands Mall
Cascades
Athlone centre 

Climate
Pietermaritzburg gets chilly in the early winter mornings but enjoys crisp, clear, bright winter days. Summers are hot and enjoyed around the pool with relaxed family braais.

To make Pietermaritzburg your next home, call a trusted property advisor at Harcourts Patrick & Co.