Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

This delightful city in has strong Victorian roots with evidence in the well preserved architectural style of the buildings and general ambiance. The surrounding countryside has attractive forests, rolling hills and valleys and it is not surprising then that the Voortrekkers, who arrived here in 1837, decided to settle on fertile land alongside the Umsindusi River.

Pietermaritzburg was founded in 1838 and named after two leaders of the Voortrekkers Pieter Retief and Gerrit Maritz. The village was later taken over and made into a British military garrison as a defence in case of attacks. Many German and British immigrants settled here over the years as the town flourished, quaint Victorian and Edwardian buildings and features remain today. This city is now the administrative capital of the KwaZulu-Natal province.

Pietermaritzburg is centrally located between Durban, the mountain range of the Drakensberg and KwaZulu-Natal's game reserves. It also stands on the edge of the wonderful Midlands Meander, a lovely scenic drive with many places to stop for art, craft, teas, meals and local produce as well as country accommodation. This city is on the main N3 highway approximately 80km (50 miles) north of Durban by road; there is also an airport with good connections to other cities.