On Zimbabwe 's eastern border, running some 300kms from North to South, is a string of mountains quite striking in its rugged beauty. For a holiday-maker in search of adventure , its appeal is obvious: it offers peace of mind, in a tranquil yet stunning environment.

The landscape of this region varies greatly between the gentle rolling countryside of Nyanga to the craggy granite of Chimanimani. Mutare, the provincial capital of Manicaland, is famed for its tree-lined streets that are an almost year- round blaze of different colours, from the red-gold of the Msasa tree to the blue haze of the jacarandas and the deep orange of the flamboyant. The town has restaurants, markets, curio shops, camping sites, fine hotels and budget accommodation in a beautiful mountainous landscape.

Mutare is the starting point of any excursion into the mystical Bvumba region. It has a good tarred road that winds up through the steep mountain ranges. The mountains in Mutare are known as Mountains of the Mist. Dotted in the Mutare mountanous region are many country hotels renowned for their good cuisine, hospitality and tranquility. One of the most famous hotel, The Leopard Rock Hotel, comes complete with a world-class 18-hole golf course and magnificent views down into Mozambique .

Nyanga & Chimanimani

North of Mutare is the Nyanga area, with picturesque pine forests and beautiful dams that are a haven for trout fishermen. There is another great golf course at the Troutbeck Inn that was designed to satisfy even the most stringent requirements of golf enthusiasts .

Mount Nyangani 2592m, the highest mountain in Zimbabwe , can be conquered on foot while the less energetic may prefer a game drive along many of the scenic routes in the Nyanga National Park . Both are experiences to savour.

At the southernmost tip of the Eastern Highlands are the Chimanimani Mountains , immediately recognizable by their sharp and jagged volcanic peaks. All or part of the exquisite mountain ranges can be conquered with only a little mountaineering skill. The region has a number of enchanting rivers with clear sparkling water and the Bridal Veil Water Falls .