Take Some Time Out at Hartebeespoort Dam
For a break from the fast paced lifestyle of Johannesburg, many flee to the tranquil and breathtaking surroundings of Hartebeespoort Dam. Tourists that have come to travel South Africa are also lured to this magnificent hideaway, because of its natural splendor and the activities that it offers. Hartebeespoort Dam is a gem that lies a mere forty-five minutes away from both Pretoria and Johannesburg, but is far removed from the bustle of city life.
Surrounded by the Magaliesberg Mountain Range, this wonderful 1 620 hectare water retreat is somewhat isolated from nearby cities, allowing weary city slickers to leave behind a world of time management for a place where time does not matter. Even though the area here looks almost untouched, visitors will not be bored here. Around the dam there are beautiful arts and crafts markets and stores, with a range of curio shops and food stalls. There are various dining venues including a waterside restaurant with live music.
Hartebeespoort Dam has gained popularity on the property market, with many tycoons constructing lavish holiday homes on the shores of the dam. Water sports and adrenalin adventures, such as windsurfing, jet skiing, water skiing, para-sailing, hang-gliding, paragliding and hot air ballooning, are popular attractions at Hartebeespoort Dam. For those who prefer to keep both feet on solid land, the dam also has a snake park, an aquarium and a zoo. Or visitors can take to the hills for a scenic hike amongst the natural beauty of the Magaliesberg Mountain Range. Visitors can also enjoy a relaxing dam crossing on the African Water Safari, and the dam is also the start of the Heritage Route that winds through the spectacular countryside, past the Pilanesberg National Park and the Madikwe Game Reserve.
In the areas surrounding Hartebeespoort Dam visitors can look forward to stopping off at the Cheese Factory, Hans Kretschmer, Hartebeepoort Cableway, South East Harbor Development, Tan’ Malie se Winkel and the Magalies Park that offers golf, canoeing, tennis and a variety of other activities. The home of the late Gustav Preller, Preller House, has been opened as a national monument in memory of this extraordinary author and journalist who gained fame in the 1920s. Malakani Bird Sanctuary is an interactive establishment that not only features a wonderful variety of bird species, but also has bird shows and fascinating educational workshops and tours.
Hartebeespoort Dam might be located on the doorstep of Pretoria and Johannesburg, but it is a destination that should not be missed if you are traveling in South Africa. It is a majestic mixture of culture, tradition, adventure and history, with a world of wonder and beauty.
