Top 10 Amazing Facts about Tiffindell 

Tiffindell during summer. Photo By Hendrik – Wikimedia Commons

Top 10 Amazing Facts About Tiffindell 

Tiffindell Ski Resort is a year-round alpine resort. Alpine is a classification in the sport of skiing that specifically refers to forms of downhill skiing where events take place on a downhill course.  

Tiffindell was established in 1993 by avid skiers, in the Southern Drakensberg. Since then, the resort has grown to become a true Alpine resort for all seasons. 

Here, skiers can test their skills, while beginners can try this exciting sport for the very first time. It is rated number 19 on CNN’s “Top 100 Ski Runs of the World” 

Here are 10 amazing facts about Tiffindell. 

1. Tiffindell is The Only Ski Resort in South Africa 

With mountain ranges that are some of the oldest and most beautiful in the world, South Africa has several high peaks that snow in the southern hemisphere winter season. Tiffindell Ski Resort is the highest and the only ski resort in South Africa.

It is located at 2,720 m (8,920 ft) on the south-facing slope of Ben Macdhui Mountain to ensure that the snow lasts as many days as possible. This mountain is the highest in the Eastern Cape with an elevation of 3,001 m (9,846 ft).  

The resort is 24 km (15 miles) above its nearest town of Rhodes, and about 212 km (132 miles) east of Aliwal North Town. 

2. The Resort Has Snow For 3 Months Annually 

Photo by CHUN FEI CHIN on Unsplash

Tiffindell has natural snow during the South African winter months of June, July, and August. Even though these months can be very cold, the resort at times has to produce extra snow to ensure that the slopes are perfect for skiing and snowboarding.  

The resort uses snowmaking and grooming machines to maintain the ski areas. The snow they make covers over 1,000 meters (3,300 ft) of the ski runs. 

3. There are Beautiful Rooms For Accommodation

Tiffindell resort can sleep about 150 guests in well-appointed, timber chalets. These rooms are clean and centrally heated plus they are within 100m of the slope and the main lodge. They offer ski packages of 3-, 4- or 7- days during winter that include ski lessons.

There is a choice of budget or Luxury Private Chalets, Family Chalets, or Mountain Suites. They also have self-catering sleepers that can accommodate 6, 8, or 10 people.

The resort provides all bedding, linen, towels, plus tea and coffee in all rooms. The amenities include an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and free parking. The food is good and so are the portions.

4. They Offer Daycare Services  

Skiing is a great sport for all. Tiffindell resort encourages everyone above 5 years to spend more time on the snow developing skills and fostering a love of the sport.

However, for children from 16 weeks to 5 years, this resort has a daycare center that operates from 8 am to 5 pm daily.

The friendly, knowledgeable childcare providers ensure that the children are entertained and comfortable while the parents take a little time for yourselves on the snow. The children join their families for lunch though.

5. The Rest of the Year Has Activities Too 

Photo By Hendrik van – Wikimedia Commons

Tiffindell ski resort is not only operational in Winter but has other recreational activities during Summer, Spring and Autumn. Families visiting during the other seasons will be spoilt for choice with activities like high-altitude hiking, mountain biking, and grass skiing.

Other Popular activities are mountain boarding, photography, rock art, birding, quad biking, and fly fishing. Rhodes is known as a prime fly-fishing spot. One can also explore the famous “8 Passes” routes for cyclists, motorcyclists, and motorists. 

In January and February, Tiffindell blooms and is known internationally as a beautiful and unique flower haven. Flora enthusiasts from all over the world come here to enjoy, learn and research.   

6. The Roads Are Dangerous, Be Very Careful

Getting to Tiffindell is part of the adventure. Due to the high elevations and exposure, the roads are subject to strong winds and rapid weather changes. Some are in bad conditions and others are worse with no cellphone network.

High winds blow all year long so be prepared for the cold wind. Allow approximately an hour and a half to get to the resort.

7. The Barkly Pass Route Has The Best Views 

Tiffindell during summer. Photo By Hendrik – Wikimedia Commons

Barkly Pass is the only one of the eight passes in the Eastern Cape that is tarmacked.  It is also the only one you can use when winter snow starts to fall. Even with the tarmac,  it gets slippery up on the pass so be very careful. 

The sandstone buttresses and rock formations are magnificent. The views are well worth it.

8. The Resort Hosts Skiing Competitions Annually

Tiffindell holds the South African National FIS Championships annually and has successfully run International Ski FIS Races since 2014. 

The Ski Resort is generally well maintained and has 2000m of pistes within 15 acres of terrain. It is suitable for all abilities and has ski lifts, a ski shop, and a ski school. You can find all the information you need on their website.

9. A Beginner Course is Compulsory For First Timers

Photo by Matthieu Pétiard on Unsplash

The resort has highly experienced local and international instructors that teach guests how to ski or snowboard quickly and safely. A beginner ski or snowboard course is compulsory for first-timers.

They teach in a controlled and safe environment since there is a main slope and a few flat beginner slopes. As one gains confidence, they move onto the main slope. Private, beginner, intermediate and advanced lessons are also available upon request.

10. Important Information

Ignore your GPS and PRINT this Route Guide.  Take the guide with you and stick to it. It is advisable to call in advance, especially during winter.

Fill up your car’s fuel tank in Barkly East. There is no fuel in Rhodes or Tiffindell. Please note that the Petrol Station is CLOSED from 10 PM – 6 AM.

You will need a low-range 4×4 vehicle with a high ground clearance to safely complete this drive. 

Have a Travel and Medical Insurance Policy that covers winter holidays and sports. It may carry a higher premium so check with your insurance agent before you leave.

Driving the route in severe weather and especially when there is heavy snow is NOT recommended. Tiffindell is often windy and cold even in summer so take appropriate clothing with you.