In the Berg

When driving down to the coast of KwaZulu-Natal I prefer not taking the N3. You might encounter a few (or sometimes many) potholes, but once you get off the highway the spectacular views of the Drakensberg make it more than worthwhile. 

It is, however, advisable to make sure that the road you choose is not in an extremely poor condition or currently being worked on. One example is the part of the R74 that goes past the Sterkfontein Dam. If you're heading to the Northern Drakensberg, an alternative would be to exit the N3 just past Ladysmith on to the N11 and proceed to Bergville. 

The Automobile Association's website is a good reference: http://www.aa.co.za/content/57/road-conditions/

This photo was taken just off the R74 on our way to the Royal Natal National Park in the Northern Drakensberg.