Great festive season excursions for the whole family
Staying home this holiday? There's loads to do in the Cradle of Humankind.
Here are some great one-day or weekend family excursions to consider in nearby Muldersdrift and the Cradle of Humankind’s World Heritage site …
Explore your origins
The Maropeng Visitor Centre is at the centre of the World Heritage Site of the Cradle of Humankind. It has won awards for its interactive displays focusing on the origins of the human race, and will be enjoyed by both adults and kids. It is situated on the R400, just off the R563 Hekpoort road, and is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Call 014 577 9100, email info@maropeng.co.za or visit www.maropeng.co.za for more information.
Outing to a village
Take the family for a drive into the countryside and visit the picturesque Ngwenya Glass Village, which is renowned for its glass-blowing demonstrations and beautiful glassware, excellent restaurants and an array of quaint shops filled with all sorts of items of interest. Lots for the children to do too! Ngwenya Glass Village, off Beyers Naudé Drive, near the N14, in Muldersdrift. Call 011 796 3000 or visit the website, www.shadesofngwenya.co.za for more information.
Fancy a spot of fishing?
Muldersdrift has a host of wonderful trout fishing venues. Pack a picnic basket and make a day of it at Brookwood Estate Trout Farm. This family-owned business, which specialises in recreational fishing, is situated in the natural beauty of Kromdraai near Muldersdrift in the Cradle of Mankind World Heritage Site. Call 011 957 0126 or 082 856 2448 (between 6am and 6pm only), e-mail info@brookwoodtroutfarm.co.za or go to www.brookwoodtroutfarm.co.za for more information
Bergsig Trout Farm and Log Cabins are ideal if you are thinking of camping out. Call 061 091 1010 (office hours only), or go to www.bergsigtroutfarm.co.za for more details.
Feeling energetic?
The Cradle of Humankind is believed to be the place where humankind found its roots, where life itself began … but for many cycling enthusiasts, it is also the beginning of a series of long-distance trails that are ideal for cyclists of any skill level. The recently tarred, old country backroads – just 20 minutes’ drive from Sandton and Fourways – are any cyclist’s dream, with farmland on either side as far as the eye can see.
There are a number of great options for cyclists looking to explore The Cradle on two wheels. Riverstone Lodge is just off the N14 in Muldersdrift and is an amazing place to start a ride, with ample secure parking. Further along the R114 is a venue called Something Country, which is an official institution for cyclists in The Cradle. It offers safe surrounds for children and family who may wish to engage in other activities while you enjoy your ride.
One of the best things about The Cradle is the fact that it is one large circuit. Cyclists who just want to get their blood running can get on their bike and do a single loop. Veteran cyclists who are in the mood for a 150km route can simply ride the loop three times – after all, there’s little chance they’ll get tired of the scenery.
If you are looking for a countryside riding adventure that won’t cost the world in travel expenses, The Cradle is the number one choice on the Highveld.
Another one just for the cyclists
If the thought of the trails is just a tad daunting, what about trying Misty Hills’ Park and Ride, specially for a well-deserved energy boost. Start the day with a plated breakfast and bottomless cup of coffee, hamburger or bunny chow before heading off. Finish the day will a well-earned Refresh and Revive leg massage. Visit www.mistyhills.co.za or call 011 950 6000 or mail sales@rali.co.za to find out more.
Pamper yourself
Muldersdrift is one of those special places in Gauteng that still feels relatively untouched. Visitors can spot birds of prey, rolling landscapes and views that make it the ideal setting for wellness centres and spas.
The area offers a menagerie of spa options, from those with an African flare, to uniquely themed spas like Chicama Country Spa’s Vineyard theme at Glenburn Lodge, and those dedicated to conscious living and holistic wellness. Call 011 668 1615, email health@glenburn.co.za or go to www.chicama.co.za.
Try the Soulstice Day Spa at Silverstar, the Woodlands Spa and Centre for Conscious Living or (for something completely different) try the Misty Hills Spa in the Country, overlooking the Kromdraai Valley in Muldersdrift. It relies on the use of indigenous African herbs, flowers and spices to embody a natural approach to body and skin wellness. Contact Soulstice Day Spa on 011 662 7500, email info@soulsticedayspajhb.co.za or go to www.soulsticedayspa.co.za
Kick back for a relaxing Sunday lunch
If you’re just looking for a wonderful lunch venue in the beautiful countryside, then chose from any one of the many hotels and restaurants in the area. Many are offering wonderful Christmas and New year specials as well. Visit www.magaliesbergmap.co.za; www.facebook.com/Magaliesburg; or Twitter and Instagram: @magaliesinfo to find a venue that is ideal for you.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at krugersdorpnews@caxton.co.za or phone us on 011 955 1130.
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