Voortrekker Piet Retief was the person for whom this town was named upon its 1883 inception. In the heart of massive timber plantations, it has enjoyed a rich and eventful history.
Voortrekker descendants were the founders of the original village, but settlers of all nationalities, among them Germans and Scots, soon found the tranquil grass and timberlands setting attractive.
Today the town is a well-located, hospitable place, where modern amenities and one of the country's most importent timber industries mingle with an aroma of tradition.
Activities
Birdwatching
The southeastern area around Piet Retief offers much for the bird enthusiasts.
Candle Factory
A charming collection of local designed candles are for viewing and for sal at Rohr's Country Guest House.
Dutch Reformed Church
Now a national monument, this is a fine example of the work of well-known architect Gerhard Moerdijk.
Fishing
All dams and many rivers and streams in the area are well-stocked, particularly with indigenous yellowtail and Natal yellowfin, offering excellent fly and coarse fishing.
Hiking
Excellent trails in the area including Assegai Hiking Trail, a popular trail through mountain scenery, Phongolo Highlands Hiking Trail System, featuring hikes from one to five days or longer through near pristine countryside, including the Ngcaka and Mpisi Routes.
Horse Riding
The splendour of the wetlands and surrounding mountains can be enjoyed on horseback.
Mondi Forest Pulp & Paper Plant
Informative tours of this paper company, whose environmental concern is well-noted, are on offer for the industrial tourist.
Oribi Conservatory
The only sanctuary in the country devoted to the protection of this graceful antelope.
Piet Retief Game & Bird Sanctuary
Magnificent local fauna and flora can be seen here, on the outskirts of town Endemic aloe species can also be seen.
Piet Retief Library & Information Centre
An informative look at the history of Piet Retief, near the town centre.
War Memorial
The area featuress many sad commemorations to the senselessness of war, including the Zulu War Memorial, the Heinrich Filter and Nils Larsen Monument, and the Monument and Gravesites of the many British soldiers who died in the Intombe War.
