Backyard Playground
Once a lovely dam way out in the Highveld countryside (so far out in fact that they cooked up nuclear weapons there in secret), Hartbeespoort is now pretty much an extension of Pretoria, with its own suburbs, namely Schoemansville, Kosmos, Pecanwood, Ifafi, Melodie and Moorhof.
It's still extremely lovely though, with the huge buttresses of the ancient Magaliesberg rising directly from the dam's northern shore. Fishing here is very much for the beer-in-hand and hat-over-the-eyes types, but you'll get a lot more excitement on weekends watching hang-gliders, paragliders and balloonists plying their skills through the skies above. The dam really is central, situated close to Pretoria, Johannesburg, the Cradle of Humankind and the Crocodile River Ramble - not a bad backyard playground.
For the Adrenaline Junkies
Fly in the face of vertigo along a 1.2 km cableway to the summit above the Hartbeespoort Dam. It is fun for the whole family, with gut-thumping views across the Magaliesberg, Hartbeespoort Dam and their immediate surrounds. You can even sip a cocktail at the top, or explore the Dassie Loop on foot.
The De Wildt 4x4 route might not over-excite the hardcore 4x4 fraternity, but you are sure to see loads of game while having maximum fun.
Change your perspective, and your view, by rising high above the crowds on a hot-air balloon flight. Float with the breeze over the Magalies River Valley for a view that looks like a vivid Cubist painting. The only requirements are that you are able to 'jump unassisted from a height of 60 cm', be able to get up very early before the sun causes thermals, and not be perturbed by huge flames above your head. Oh, and you'll need to admit your true weight, with clothes.
Go rolling on a cheese farm, if you will … Van Gaalen Cheese Farm is rated as one of South Africa’s top singletrack destinations, with literally miles of purpose-built MTB tracks traversing the reed beds, riverine woodland, grassveld and river banks. Once you’re off the bike, don’t forget to sample some handmade cheese!
Game Viewing and Relaxation
A combo of aerial game viewing and high jinks while sliding along a steel cable system? Only in Africa, buddy.
If you live in Gauteng and you've got little ones, you'll want to find cool places to take them on weekends and holidays. The Hartbeespoort Animal Park, half-zoo, half-animal rehab and education centre, has all manner of creatures from wild cats and wild dogs to lions, sea lions and vultures - and of course the stars of the place, the snakes. Although virtually on the doorstep of the mega-city, it involves a scenic drive to get there. There's also a waterfront tea garden with calming views of mountains and lakes, as well as half-hour ferry boat rides. It's one of the most underrated places in the North West province, where you can enjoy the wonders of nature.
Make time for a trunk call with Amarula, Temba or Mvusu at the Elephant Sanctuary, or go for a savannah walk with these ever-so-gentle giants. Relax with a cold one in hand while cruising on Hartbeespoort Dam, or up the ante on a high-speed inflatable if you need an adrenaline fix.
Expand Your Cultural Horizons
The Welwitschia Country Market (featuring 40 wooden shops along brick-paved lanes and built around a charming aviary) is a dead cert when it comes to pleasing both mum and the kids. And if dad gets bored, he can claim time out and grab a drink at the bush pub. If you feel the need for more retail therapy, South Africa’s largest indoor craft market is also close by.
Spend an unforgettable night in an authentically restored ox-wagon.
Experience the magic of Africa’s many cultures and traditions at a village aiming to recreate the tribal folklore and ancestral customs of our Rainbow Nation.
The annual Solstice Festival, held every September, is a gathering of like-minded souls keen on enjoying mind-expanding music and craft beer. Held in nearby Broederstroom, it is a festival not to be missed, especially if you’re into the idea of boutique beers brewed using only natural ingredients. After all, if it is only hops, yeast, malt and water, chances of a hangover should be seriously slim.