18 Things to do within an hour’s drive

We’ve rounded up a list of must-visit destinations for this holiday season.

1. Harties Cableway

A visit to the Harties Cableway is an ideal outing. Think panoramic views of the beautiful Magaliesberg and Hartbeespoort Dam while sipping ice-cold cocktails and snacking on ready-made picnic baskets. A KidZone, Dassie Loop walkway, eateries and unique little shops will keep you busy for the day. Details: Contact them on 012 253 9910 or visit www.hartiescableway.co.za.

2. Uncle Harry’s Roadhouse

For the best dining experience, be sure to treat the family to a visit to Uncle Harry’s Roadhouse. This family restaurant aims to serve and deliver on its promise of quality food at the most affordable price. Treat yourself to Sunday lunch, or the most delicious pizza/ burgers/ milkshakes ever! Details: Visit them on the corner of Main and Randfontein Roads or contact them on 011 693 5203.

3. Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden

Voted Gauteng’s best picnic spot on many occasions, the Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden with its legendary waterfall and black eagles offers themed gardens, hiking trails, a kiddies playground, a kiosk, an outdoor gym, birding, events and concert. While you’re there, visit the Eagle’s Fare restaurant which is renowned for its delectable A la Carté menu, Sunday buffet, wedding venue and functions. Details: Visit www.sanbi.org.za / www.eaglesfare.co.za.

4. The Lion and Safari Park

Get closer than you could ever imagine to Africa’s most incredible wildlife. The Lion and Safari Park is a wilderness reserve offering guests an incredible opportunity to get up close to brown and white lions, wild dogs, cheetahs and over twenty different other African wildlife species. Details: Contact them on 087 150 0100 or visit www.lionandsafaripark.com.

5. Pretville

The little 50’s Rock’n’Roll town, Pretville is a true gem in Harties. Have a milkshake and burger in the delightful diner, stroll through the quaint little town and enjoy a free movie. It is open on weekends, public holidays, and from 9 December to 15 January. Details: Contact them on 083 266 8567 or visit www.pretville.co.za.

6. Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre

Visit the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre at De Wildt. Book a guided tour – see the cheetahs in action and watch the animals being fed. The Centre is also home to a breeding programme for wild dogs. Details: Contact them on 012 504 9906/7/8 or visit www.dewildt.co.za.

7. De Hoek Country Hotel

Want to leave the humdrum routine of busy city life behind you and enjoy fine dining, luxury accommodation and create memories that will last you a lifetime? Then surprise and treat that special someone by taking them on a romantic escape to De Hoek Country Hotel. Details: Contact them on 014 577 9600 or visit https://dehoek.com.

8. La Provence D’Afrique

A touch of French romance in the heart of Magalies awaits you at La Provence D’Afrique. Expect rustic cottages, picnic by the river, a forest Zen spa (offering the best stone therapy massages!) and immaculate gardens. Details: Contact them on 082 900 8205 or visit www.laprovencedafrique.co.za.

9. Combat Paintball

Close to Harties Cableway, Combat Paintball offers more than 1 000 square metres of playing space in a natural setting. Packages start at R100 per person. People of all ages can experience the adrenaline rush associated with the game of paintball. Details: Contact them on 071 643 6319.

10. Burger Box Roadhouse Grill

Neon signage, burger combos, mouth-watering ribs and double-thick milkshakes ... that is just a few reason why you should visit Burger Box Roadhouse Grill! Be spoilt for choice – from a variety of juicy chicken or beef burgers, shawarmas, toasted sandwiches, breakfast to cheesy tramezzinis. Details: Visit them at 193 Voortrekker Road, Krugersdorp or contact them on 011 955 6767.

11. Harties Is Africa Tented Safari Camp

Harties Is Africa Tented Safari Camp has five large luxury tents with queen- size, extra-length beds and private en-suite bathroom facilities. This camp does not feature telephones, internet access or TVs – it allows the sounds of nature to play the music you have almost forgotten. Details: Contact them on 072 999 3589 or visit www.hartiesisafrica.co.za.

12. Bankenveld House B&B & Coffee Shop

Bankenveld House B&B & Coffee Shop is situated on a scenic two-hectare holding surrounded by more than 50 majestic trees which make it the ideal place to unwind. All rooms are individually decorated with the theme of living beautifully while away from home. Rooms have separate entrances and safe parking is provided. A delectable breakfast is included in your stay. Details: Contact them on 082 378 8024 or visit www.bankenveldhouse.co.za.

13. Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park

The Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park has been a popular tourist attractions for many years. Visitors can see a wide variety of wild animal species and snakes. Don’t miss the snake and seal shows on weekends! They also have a water sport centre, offering a variety of water toys. Details: Contact them on 253 1162 or visit www.hartbeespoortsnakeanimalpark.co.za.

14. GOG Lifestyle Park

Boasting seven unique rides, a BMX track, a kids’ pump track, a climbing wall, zip line, giant inflatable products, trampolines and a sprint obstacle course – just to name a few – the GOG Lifestyle themed adventure park should be on your to-do list for this holiday! The best place to unwind with the family! Details: Contact them on 072 394 7437 or visit https://goglifestylelanseria.co.za.

15. Magaliesberg Canopy Tour

Magaliesberg Canopy Tour is a unique eco-adventure that takes you on a journey through the ecology and geology of the second oldest mountain range in the world. This is the perfect outdoor activity for individual thrill seekers, family getaways, student groups or corporate team building events. Details: Contact them on 014 535 0150 or visit www.magaliescanopytour.co.za.

16. Rapid Descent

A great outing for young and old, Rapid Descent (departing from the Lion and Safari Park) offers a two-and-a-half-hour trip down the river on a raft. You are sure to encounter some rapids, obstacles and tons of fun! Details: Contact them on 079 666 6571 or 082 820 5577 or email on rapidescentadventures@gmail.com

17. Ngwenya Glass Village

Ngwenya Glass Village is an ideal place for the whole family to visit, with loads to keep you busy. You’ll find two fab restaurants – Barefoot Kitchen, run by the successful foodie, Sharon Baumgart, and Gilroy’s Brewery with its beer-tasting, pub fare and great entertainment. Open Tuesdays to Sundays from 9am to 4pm. Details: Contact them on 011 796 3000 or 082 497 6054.

18. The Reptile and Conservation Park

The Reptile and Conservation Park at Chameleon Village boasts a large variety of reptiles, spiders and animals, among them monkeys, caracals, jackals and racoons. Come and enjoy live snake shows and animal interactions. Shows are on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Details: Contact them on 082 469 2979.
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