Spend Easter weekend on a vintage train

Staff Reporter|Published 1 year ago

Wesley steaming through 1000 Hills.

The Railway Museum in the old Station Master’s House is one of the attractions of Umgeni Steam Railway.

Looking to infuse some vintage charm into your Easter weekend plans?

Why not hop aboard an 85-year-old Steam Engine for a delightful journey through the picturesque Valley of 1000 Hills?

The Umgeni Steam Railway invites families to join them on Saturday March 30, and Sunday March 31, for an unforgettable experience.

Departing from Inchanga at 9am, 11am, 1.30pm, and 3.30pm, these nostalgic rides promise a memorable adventure for all ages.

The last train of the day chugs back into Inchanga at 4:45pm.

For those riding on Sunday March 31, a special treat awaits: the Easter Bunny board, delighting children with Easter eggs as the train winds its way through the scenic landscape.

Embarking from Inchanga Railway Station, the approximately 75-minute journey offers panoramic views of KwaZulu-Natal's rolling hills. Passengers will pass through one of South Africa's oldest operating tunnels before reaching Botha’s Hill, where the train makes a turn for the return trip to Inchanga.

Before or after the ride, families can explore the Inchanga Station Craft Market, featuring a variety of treasures for sale, culinary delights to tantalize taste buds, and activities for everyone to enjoy.

Additionally, visitors can delve into history at the Inchanga Railway Museum housed in the Old Station Master’s House or indulge in a bit of model train spotting in the Modeller's Shed on the platform.

To streamline the experience, organisers advise bringing cash or using Zapper for purchases, as card facilities and ATMs are not available.

To ensure a spot on board, it's recommended to arrive at least half an hour before departure to collect tickets. With limited spaces available, booking and payment within 48 hours are essential to secure seats.

For more details and reservations, interested parties can visit www.umgenisteamrailway.com

The Umgeni Steam Railway proudly operates with the support of the 1000 Hills Community Tourism Organisation, embodying a spirit of community and heritage preservation.

As a volunteer-based organization, Umgeni Steam Railway also extends an invitation to train enthusiasts to join their ranks. No specific skills are required, just a passion for trains and a willingness to contribute.

Those interested can reach out to the organisation for more information on membership opportunities.

So, gather the family and embark on an Easter adventure steeped in history and charm aboard the Umgeni Steam Railway.