The Magaliesberg is actually a great place to get away this Spring. Just over an hour’s drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, Magaliesburg is rich with history, wildlife, outdoor activities and family outings.
Avukile Mabombo, Group Marketing Manager for Protea Hotels by Marriott Hotels said they are often asked to recommend places in the area.
“There is something for everyone. We enjoy hearing and speaking to our guests about the adventures they’ve had as well as giving advice about hidden gems in the area,” he says.
Mabombo provides some spots people should try when they visit this Spring.
The Cradle of Humankind
The Cradle of Humankind is an obvious choice for a day’s adventure. Both educational and fun, the Cradle of Humankind site is a strip of dolomite limestone caves that house fossilised remains of prehistoric animals, plant and homonids.
Seven of the twelve sites have yielded hominid remains producing over 800 fossils collectively. Of these the Sterkfontein Caves is a must see just 10 kms from Krugersdorp.
The Australophthecus Africanus was found here, affectionately known as Mrs. Ples. She was one of the first fossils to indicate that walking upright evolved well before any significant growth in brain size.
The Hartbeespoort Dam
The Hartbeespoort Dam is a frequent trip for locals. It’s a favourite for good reason, with a wide variety of activities on offer including boating, quad biking, climbing, paragliding, hang-gliding, hot-air ballooning, and a wide range of watersports.
For the slightly less adventurous there’s regular old hiking, or the option of a trip up the Harties Cableway for majestic panoramic views of the dam, the Magaliesberg mountain range and surrounding areas.
Miracle Waters Diving Centre
Miracle Waters Diving Centre is a dive getaway in clean spring water’ in view of the Magaliesberg mountains.
The centre offers instruction to complete beginners, with ‘no major hazards or extreme depths’, five training platforms, and equipment for hire.
A sunken bus and airplane can be reached by more experienced divers. Pre- or post-dive, or for visitors more interested in land-based activities, the venue offers birding, game enclosures, a trampoline and swimming pool for children, as well as picnic and braai facilities.
Mountain biking
The area is also a hive of activity for mountain bikers and trail runners with the Mountain Sanctuary Park MTB trails which form part of the Magalies Monster race. Parts of the course are kid friendly and one can picnic at the local braai sites near the swimming pools. Booking ahead is necessary as daily quotas are applied.