Moffat Mungazi
Liberty Dube
Tourism Correspondent
NOT much is known about Penhalonga in terms of tourism offerings.
Instead, the settlement is primarily recognised for gold mining activities, which is the area’s oldest livelihood activity.
Surrounded by a rugged mountain range, Penhalonga lies in a picturesque valley where Tsambe and Imbeza rivers converge with Mutare River.
The area is bustling with artisanal miners, and the landscape is shaped by the intense activity of gold extraction.
Despite its rich mining history, Penhalonga lacks dedicated tourism sites.
However, there is the serene Lake Alexandra and the Small Bridge.
This tranquil spot offers a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty, standing as a rare attraction in a region dominated by mining.
This tranquil dam is a hidden gem, offering a range of rejuvenating experiences.
A visit to the dam provides an ideal retreat from the pressures of everyday life, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature.
The calm surroundings and scenic beauty create a peaceful ambiance, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and unwinding.
The soothing sounds of flowing water, rustling leaves, and birdsong contribute to a serene atmosphere, fostering stress relief and mental clarity.
It is an excellent spot for mindfulness, meditation, and overall well-being. Popular activities include boating, canoeing, swimming, fishing, and traditional braai, all adding to the charm of this peaceful escape.
Situated just 40 kilometres from Mutare, Small Bridge Dam lies upstream from Lake Alexander, nestled along the picturesque Odzani River.
Constructed in the 1980s after the establishment of Lake Alexander, this tranquil dam remains a hidden gem.
The lush, rainforest-like greenery near the site stands in stunning contrast to the vast savannah landscapes of Zimbabwe, offering a peaceful sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of city life.
In this tranquil haven, you will find yourself immersed in nature’s beauty, where the serene surroundings invite you to unwind and reconnect with the world around you.
There, you can sing with the angels.
The crystal-clear waters of the dam are a mesmerising spectacle, drawing visitors from all walks of life. This idyllic destination offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
The place is ideal for camping under the starlit sky, exploring the waters through boating or canoeing, swimming in the cool, tranquil dam, fishing along the shores, as well as enjoying a hearty braai with friends and family.
As an outgoing and fun loving traveller, there is absolutely no shortage of activities to fill your day.
Although the winding road leading to the site adds a touch of adventure as well as revealing stunning views as you approach the site, motorists are urged to exercise caution when driving through the meandering curves.
A walk along the bridge offers more than just a picturesque view.
It provides a serene escape from the madding crowd and busy city life.
In the peaceful environment, free from the distractions and stresses of everyday life, you can fully immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.
Sharing this tranquil moment with a partner or friend adds a special touch, allowing you to connect in a way that is often hard to find in the chaos of urban living.
The stunning views of the dam and its surroundings, makes one feel their worries melting away while rejuvenating both mind and spirit.
A visit to the area is a simple, yet profound way to reconnect with nature and with each other, offering a sense of peace and calm that only such a setting can provide.
Nature lovers will be enchanted by the symphony of songs from both indigenous and exotic birds, which fill the air with delightful melodies.
As the day comes to an end, the breathtaking sunset over the dam’s still waters creates an unforgettable moment, making it the perfect place to reflect, unwind, and connect with nature.
Before reaching the lake, a visitor may decide to have a beautiful and stunning view of Christmas Pass while standing at a hilly and craggy site where a popular tourism site and eatery Sabi Star is located.
The meandering curves along the Christmas Pass maybe clearly seen from Sabi Star which has stunning surrounding landscape.
Online Reporter