The Sunday Mail
The concealed part of Boterekwa – picture by Kudakwashe Hunda
Historian Miriam Beard once said, “Travel is more than the seeing of sights, it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.”
Sometimes it is a great idea to take a break from all stress of the tiresome daily routines of work. Pack your bags, exit your comfort zone and embark on a journey to a place of relaxation and pleasure.
Become a tourist.
I am fortunate to be a native of Zimbabwe, a country rich in tourist attractions ranging from historical monuments to natural wonders.
From the rolling Eastern Highlands to the shores of Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe offers superb scenery, large concentrations of wildlife and favourable climatic conditions.
Don’t forget the warm and helpful people as well.
With the greater part of my life spent behind a computer, punching keys away while I stretch the boundaries of creativity within the walls of the newsroom, it is always refreshing to travel.
This past week it was to Midlands province.
On arrival in the small mining town of Shurugwi, the beautiful scenery immediately captured me.
Located 35km from the City of Gweru, this mineral-rich town could be the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of big city life, with its peaceful atmosphere and lush vegetation.
One of the most beautiful features of Shurugwi is Boterekwa Pass, home to a twisting road, which winds and turns as it negotiates the mountainous terrain.
Although, I have travelled this road several times, I had never been adventurous enough to explore the scenery deep inside the gorge.
This time around I decided to descend the steep road side and what I discovered when I reached the bottom was nothing short of amazing.
It was like walking in a totally different world, after the scene dramatically changed when I got to the bottom and saw a small stream flowing steadily, meandering through the rocky landscape.
The sound of the birds, crystal clear water and a touch of sun rays filtering through the dense vegetation was like a therapy of the soul and although I could not find the so-called Danraven Falls, walking up and down the stream in search of their location was a relaxing experience.
Despite being an athletic person, ascending back to the road proved to be a daunting task which drained a reasonable amount of energy from my system.
For those who take up fishing as a hobby, Gwenhoro Dam would be the ideal location with a large variety of fish within its depths.
In terms of accommodation, Nichrut Lodge rules the roost with a superb location and architectural mastery coming into play.
Boasting of several standard rooms, sharing rooms and executive suits furnished with state-of-the-art installations, the lodge is extraordinary on many fronts.
The kitchen boasts of unique dishes and the chefs stand by their numerous fish recipes. With Shurugwi being a rich mineral town, the lodge usually accommodates business tourists who are frequently visiting surrounding mines.
They also have a conference centre, which makes it a brilliant venue for workshops and weddings as well.
During my stay at the lodge, I happened to bump into the owner, Nicholas Gara, who told me that plans to expand the place were underway.
Nichrut also has a service station and a fast food court for those who are just passing though.
Other recommendable places to rest include Flame Lilly Lodge, Sungano Motel and Eagle Nest Lodge, which is located along the Gweru-Shurugwi highway.
The nightlife has been given a boost, with emergence of the new and vibrant Mzansi Night Club and Restaurant.
It was not pleasant saying goodbye to the town for the noisy, crowded and busy streets of Harare, but at least I managed to bring with me a few memories.
