Nestled in the valley below Van Reenen’s Pass and at the heart of Anglo-Boer War territory, Estcourt is a sizable town that, along with Winterton 40 km to the north, serves as a gateway to the central Drakensberg. Originally named Bushman's River due to its riverside location, the town was later renamed in honour of English parliamentarian Thomas Estcourt, who supported settler immigration to the area. Beyond its historical ties to the Anglo-Boer War, Estcourt is also known for its proximity to natural attractions like the Weenen Game Reserve and the Thukela Biosphere—a 100,000-hectare conservation area home to elephants, white rhinos, wildebeest, leopards, hyenas, warthogs, and various antelope species. Key historical landmarks include the Armoured Train Cemetery, where Winston Churchill was famously captured, and Brynbella Hill, 10 km away, which served as a strategic Boer position. The original stone wall used by both British and Boer forces during the November 23, 1899, skirmish still stands today as a national monument. Hiking and walking opportunities around Estcourt feature the New Formosa Nature Reserve, ideal for game viewing; the historic Furrow Walking Trail; and the Moor Park Nature Reserve, known for its scenic paths and exceptional birdwatching.
