You don’t need to travel far to enjoy a day in the country … the marvellous Magalies Meander is less than an hour’s drive away. Wherever you travel along this route, expect to see spectacular, sweeping views of the beautiful Magaliesberg mountains. There are so many things to do and see … we’ve highlighted five of our favourite stops.
A haven of relaxation
If the outdoors and adventure don’t quite tickle your fancy, then a day at the spa is one of the best ways to achieve inner peace, apart from meditating or eating an olive branch. And we’ve got just the perfect spa in mind. The award-winning, luxurious Mount Grace Spa is located on a hilltop offering gorgeous views of the Magaliesberg mountains. Think serene gardens, a hydrotherapy spa, a jacuzzi, rock pool, reflexology walkway and top-notch treatments. Bliss. Details: tsogosun.com/mount-grace-hotel-and-spa
Up, up and away
Looking for a larger-than-life, unforgettable experience? Tucked away in the heart of Magalies and nestled within the gorgeous scenic landscape, the thrill of adventure awaits at Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris. It’s sunrise … the silence of the flight is punctuated only by the occasional blast of the powerful burners and the faint call of a bird or animal far beneath. The thrill is indescribable. You’re hovering gently above the treetops of the beautiful Magalies River Valley or drifting majestically high above the Magaliesberg mountain range as the sun creeps over the horizon. Peaceful. Something you have to experience at least once in your life. After landing, savour a scrumptious breakfast at the Clubhouse Pavilion and Restaurant. Details: balloon.co.za
An aerial adventure
There’s something exciting about cable car rides that’s hard to beat, especially if it’s a trip on the longest mono-cableway in Africa. Harties Aerial Cableway offers uninterrupted 360° panoramic views of the Magaliesberg mountain range, Hartbeespoort Dam and surrounding areas. But, the fun doesn’t end when your ride stops. There are restaurants, express food stalls and stunning seating areas and bomas, a Dassie Loop Walkway and Kidzone, making it the ultimate family excursion.
The Adventure Centre at the base station is the perfect way to end off the day, offering opportunities to paraglide, abseil, hike and more. Details: hartiescableway.co.za
For the love of cheese…
This may sound cheesy (see what we did here!), but a trip to Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij is something quite exquisite. You can do a tour around the cheese farm, which combines a demo of the cheese-making process with a special Dutch cheese tasting (and a slice of the most marvellous Dutch apple cake!). Or relax under the trees at Terrace Restaurant with beautiful views of the Magaliesberg mountains while you tuck into a cheese platter. They have lovely picnic hampers available as well, but you need to book at least a day in advance. And just before you hit the road, you really should pop into their Farm Shop for a variety of delicious cheeses, preserves, souvenirs and a wide selection of Dutch favourites. Details: vangaalen.co.za
Hearty country dining
Whether a family breakfast, lingering lunch or romantic dinner is right up your alley, pull in at The Fat Olive Restaurant. Situated on the banks of a natural irrigation dam with expansive views of the distant Magaliesberg mountains (once again!), expect to be treated to delectable dishes that fuse a Mediterranean flavour into your dining experience. Keep an eye out for the birds and wildlife. It’s common to see a zebra family wandering to drink water or a blesbok herd thunder past. Details: thefatolive.co.za
* Text: Rialien Furstenberg
