Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
1. Newcastle River Walk
A scenic walking trail along the Mkomazi and Mngeni rivers, offering views of diverse wildlife and birdlife.
- Natural Beauty: Provides a peaceful escape from urban life
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to see various species of birds and small animals
- Accessibility: Easy access from city center and multiple entry points
2. Gonubie Beach Front Promenade
A coastal walkway that stretches from Gonubie's main beach to the popular surf spot, Nahoon Reef.
- Beach Access: Direct access to beautiful beaches along the promenade
- Surfing Opportunities: Ideal for surfers of all levels at Nahoon Reef
- Sunset Views: Breathtaking sunsets over the ocean
3. Midmar Dam MTB Trails
A network of mountain bike trails surrounding Midmar Dam, with varying difficulty levels.
- Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of Midmar Dam and surrounding hills
- Different Terrains: Offers a mix of challenging single tracks and family-friendly routes
- Water Sports: Adjacent to the dam for canoeing, swimming, or fishing activities
4. Nahoon Nature Reserve
A coastal reserve with walking trails that offer views of dolphins and whales during migration.
- Marine Life: Opportunity to observe marine life up-close
- Bird Watching: Home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered Black Oystercatcher
- Historic Lighthouse: Visit the historic Nahoon Point Lighthouse
5. Mngazi Nature Reserve
A large nature reserve with walking trails and picnic spots, home to diverse wildlife.
- Wildlife Encounters: Opportunity to see elephants, rhinos, and other wildlife in their natural habitat
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the Mngazi River Valley
- Picnic Facilities: Well-maintained picnic spots for a relaxing day out
6. Uvongo Boardwalk
A wooden boardwalk that follows the Uvongo River, offering views of waterfalls and lush vegetation.
- Waterfall Views: Gorgeous views of the Uvongo Waterfalls
- Bird Watching: Ideal for bird watchers with a variety of species present
- River Activities: Opportunity for canoeing or fishing in the Uvongo River
7. Kwandandebele Nature Reserve
A coastal reserve with walking trails that offer views of dolphins and whales during migration.
- Marine Life: Opportunity to observe marine life up-close
- Bird Watching: Home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered Black Oystercatcher
- Historic Lighthouse: Visit the historic Kwadwankwa Lighthouse
8. Mkhuze Game Reserve
A large game reserve with walking trails and picnic spots, home to diverse wildlife.
- Wildlife Encounters: Opportunity to see elephants, rhinos, and other wildlife in their natural habitat
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the Mkuze River Valley
- Picnic Facilities: Well-maintained picnic spots for a relaxing day out
9. North Coast Bike Trails
A network of bike trails along the North Coast offering views of the sea and lush vegetation.
- Sea Views: Breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean
- Different Terrains: Offers a mix of challenging single tracks and family-friendly routes
- Nature Appreciation: Opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the North Coast
10. Pennington Beach Front Promenade
A coastal walkway that stretches from Pennington's main beach to the popular surf spot, Granny's Pool.
- Beach Access: Direct access to beautiful beaches along the promenade
- Surfing Opportunities: Ideal for surfers of all levels at Granny's Pool
- Sunset Views: Breathtaking sunsets over the ocean
11. Mkumbane MTB Trails
A network of mountain bike trails in the Mkumbane Forest Reserve with varying difficulty levels.
- Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of the Mkumbane Forest Reserve
- Different Terrains: Offers a mix of challenging single tracks and family-friendly routes
- Forest Exploration: Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Mkumbane Forest Reserve
12. Scottburgh Beach Front Promenade
A coastal walkway that stretches from Scottburgh's main beach to the popular surf spot, Aliens.
- Beach Access: Direct access to beautiful beaches along the promenade
- Surfing Opportunities: Ideal for surfers of all levels at Aliens
- Sunset Views: Breathtaking sunsets over the ocean
13. Umtamvuna Nature Reserve
A coastal reserve with walking trails that offer views of dolphins and whales during migration.
- Marine Life: Opportunity to observe marine life up-close
- Bird Watching: Home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered Black Oystercatcher
- Historic Bridge: Visit the historic Umtamvuna Suspension Bridge
14. Port Shepstone Boardwalk
A wooden boardwalk that follows the Mngeni River, offering views of waterfalls and lush vegetation.
- Waterfall Views: Gorgeous views of the Mngeni Waterfalls
- Bird Watching: Ideal for bird watchers with a variety of species present
- River Activities: Opportunity for canoeing or fishing in the Mngeni River
15. Mtamvuna MTB Trails
A network of mountain bike trails surrounding the Mtamvuna River, with varying difficulty levels.
- Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of the Mtamvuna River and surrounding hills
- Different Terrains: Offers a mix of challenging single tracks and family-friendly routes
- River Activities: Adjacent to the river for canoeing, swimming, or fishing activities