Oh no, not another post about something that is not in Gauteng. Oh yes! Sutherland may be some 1200kms south west of Gauteng but with so many driving to and fro to the Cape via the N1, it is definitely worth seriously considering stopping over for a night or two at this little known but very interesting little town.
Opposite the turn off to the historical Victorian settlement of Matjiesfontein is the R354 which leads to Sutherland situated some 110 kms away almost 1500m above sea level in the Roggeveld Mountains. Vying with Molteno as the Capital of Cold (about -18c!), it was chosen some years ago to be the Capital of Astronomy thanks to the lack of light pollution and its position relative to the Milky Way.
Sutherland is a busy little town catering to a constant flow of astronomers from around the world and, of course, tourists. Lets take the astronomers first. Following the R354 east of town for approximately 15 kilometres a plateau is reached and it is here that more than 20 telescopes have been built. One telescope is unmanned and is operated over the internet from the Korean university that owns it!
But undoubtedly the star attraction is the South African Large Telescope or SALT, the largest optical telescope in the southern hemisphere with an 11 metre mirror comprised of 91 hexagonal mirror panels. So sensitive is this giant telescope that a candle on the moon can be detected, not that SALT is used for such mundane events. Because their body temperature and humidity could affect the mirrors, the astronomers sit in a separate control room using computer screens for observation!
Less than two hours drive from Sutherland lies the town of Calvinia, the area that has been chosen to host the hub of what will become the most powerful radio telescope in the world, the Square Kilometre Array or SKA. One of the factors that influenced the international board to award the buidling of SKA to South Africa, was the expertise and the
international reputation that has been developed at Sutherland over the
years. The SKA is that important that it warrants a separate post on its own but it can be read about by following the URL quoted below.
Sutherland is not just about astronomy though. On the way to the observatory plateau lies Saltpeterskop, the youngest volcano in the southern hemisphere. Located on the edge of the Tankwa Karoo means that the unique flora of this region is easily accessible and to make it even easier, the owners of Kambrokind B & B (our favourite) have compiled a directory giving exact directions and descriptions of some examples. Surprisingly, the cold climate is also ideal for propagating tulip bulbs (by a Dutch company) and the fields, when they are in flower prior to being lifted, provide a stunning sight.
An interesting museum houses exhibits depicting the personalities of the town and the area. Visits can be arranged by appointment. On the outskirts of town is the cemetery, the headstones bearing evidence of skirmishes between the Boer and the British forces. Unusually, two headstones bear the same name. A soldier died in a flash flood and was buried in a communal grave but was later re-buried upon being awarded the Military Cross. A novelty is a ride around the town on a donkey cart and even a game of golf can be enjoyed.
In nearby Fraserburg, the "Honeymoon Garden" is an area of rock with adult and juvenile dinosaur footprints embedded in it. Well preserved examples of corbelled houses can also be seen in the vicinity.
A variety of accommodation options are available from farm houses to luxurious B & B's and guest houses. Somewhat unexpectedly, there are some excellent restaurants that could hold their own in the Metropoles, in town as well.
Both daytime and night tours of the observatory can be arranged but booking in advance is essential. SALT is used for the night time star gazing but an equally impressive alternative is Sterland on the edge of town. Jurg and Rita, the owners of Kambrokind have created a telescope 'park' with three 16 inch computer controlled telescopes which provide spectacular viewing accompanied by interesting talks and explanations.
All in all, if driving to or from Cape Town, Sutherland is a fascinating and unusual stop over destination
www.sutherlandinfo.co.za
http://www.saao.ac.za/about/visting/sutherland/
http://www.discoversutherland.co.za/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sutherland,_Northern_Cape
32°22′46″S 20°48′38.5″E
www.skatelescope.org
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Museum of Military History
"Never in the field of human conflict has so much been owed by so many to so few". Winston Churchill's famous tribute to the RAF following the Battle of Britain in 1942 came to mind when visiting this much overlooked but interesting Museum. All of us have been impacted by these two horrific World Wars and it behooves us to remember those who gave their lives in pursuit of freedom from tyranny and to realise what was involved.
Located in a tranquil setting next to the Johannesburg Zoo in Saxonwold, the Museum reflects the military connection as the facilities are spick and span with neatly mown lawns and whitewashed stones. Covering primarily the two World Wars, the exhibits also incorporates displays of 19th century swords, arms and uniforms as well as the Angolan Border War and the Umkhonto we Sizwe conflict. All of these show the involvement of SA personnel.
Although a military historian had the foresight to collect WWl memoribilia in the 1920's, it was only after WWll that the "SA National War Museum" was established and opened by Jan Smuts. Sadly by then, many of the WWl artifacts had disappeared but what remains is very interesting and is maintained in great condition.
Aircraft, tanks, armoured personnel carriers, small arms, medals, uniforms and medical equipment form part of the extensive display. Some of the exhibits are rare e.g. the Messerscmidt 262 jet night fighter is the only one of its kind in the world. A Crossly personnel carrier in running order is similarly the only one in such condition in the world. Other interesting aircraft include an ME109, a Spitfire and a Hurricane plus the more modern Buccaneer and Mirage. And then there is the famous Centurion tank as well as Russian, German and even Italian armoured vehicles. Plus a German one man mini submarine.
Part of the Museum's mandate is to perform ongoing research as well as to educate the public by means of tours for schools as well as the general public. A series of interesting lectures are conducted from time to time covering specific battles and other related topics.
The complex houses a library, shop coffee shop as well as various lecture halls and function rooms that can be hired for various events. Definitely worth a couple of hours visit - and not just for those interested in war!
Entry fees are laughably low.
www.ditsong.org.za/militaryhistory.htm
Located in a tranquil setting next to the Johannesburg Zoo in Saxonwold, the Museum reflects the military connection as the facilities are spick and span with neatly mown lawns and whitewashed stones. Covering primarily the two World Wars, the exhibits also incorporates displays of 19th century swords, arms and uniforms as well as the Angolan Border War and the Umkhonto we Sizwe conflict. All of these show the involvement of SA personnel.
Although a military historian had the foresight to collect WWl memoribilia in the 1920's, it was only after WWll that the "SA National War Museum" was established and opened by Jan Smuts. Sadly by then, many of the WWl artifacts had disappeared but what remains is very interesting and is maintained in great condition.
Aircraft, tanks, armoured personnel carriers, small arms, medals, uniforms and medical equipment form part of the extensive display. Some of the exhibits are rare e.g. the Messerscmidt 262 jet night fighter is the only one of its kind in the world. A Crossly personnel carrier in running order is similarly the only one in such condition in the world. Other interesting aircraft include an ME109, a Spitfire and a Hurricane plus the more modern Buccaneer and Mirage. And then there is the famous Centurion tank as well as Russian, German and even Italian armoured vehicles. Plus a German one man mini submarine.
Part of the Museum's mandate is to perform ongoing research as well as to educate the public by means of tours for schools as well as the general public. A series of interesting lectures are conducted from time to time covering specific battles and other related topics.
The complex houses a library, shop coffee shop as well as various lecture halls and function rooms that can be hired for various events. Definitely worth a couple of hours visit - and not just for those interested in war!
Entry fees are laughably low.
www.ditsong.org.za/militaryhistory.htm
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Borokalalo - "The Place Where People Relax"
Borakalalo Nature Reserve in the North West Province is a fisherman's paradise, encircling as it does the large Klipvoor Dam. This 13 000 hectare reserve was proclaimed in 1984 and the terrain consists of Kalahari woodland and bushveld while Riverine forest borders the Moratele River.
Besides fishing (permits are available at the entry gate), Borakalalo is a superb birdwatching destination with a list in excess of 350 identified species. A hide has been erected at a small dam providing a relaxing spot to idle away the time while watching the movements of a variety of birds. Some highly desirable 'ticks' that have been seen on the river include the elusive Finfoot and the White Backed Night Heron.
Walking is permitted in a number of areas either self guided or with a Park's guide. And then there is an extensive list of animals to be seen from white rhino to buffalo and the rare roan antelope plus other plains game. A pretty picnic site with braais and ablutions is located on the shores of the dam while the gravel roads are well maintained and easily negotiated with a normal sedan car.
Located among the trees on the banks of the river, is an attractive and well laid out camp site. Other accommodation options are available in permanent tents at two sites. Not as large nor as crowded as bigger sister Pilanesberg which is not far away, Borakalalo does get busy during school and public holidays. Only 60 kms north of Brits, this peaceful reserve is easily accessible from both Pretoria and Johannesburg.
http://www.parksnorthwest.co.za/borakalalo/
http://www.borakalalo.co.za
Besides fishing (permits are available at the entry gate), Borakalalo is a superb birdwatching destination with a list in excess of 350 identified species. A hide has been erected at a small dam providing a relaxing spot to idle away the time while watching the movements of a variety of birds. Some highly desirable 'ticks' that have been seen on the river include the elusive Finfoot and the White Backed Night Heron.
Walking is permitted in a number of areas either self guided or with a Park's guide. And then there is an extensive list of animals to be seen from white rhino to buffalo and the rare roan antelope plus other plains game. A pretty picnic site with braais and ablutions is located on the shores of the dam while the gravel roads are well maintained and easily negotiated with a normal sedan car.
Located among the trees on the banks of the river, is an attractive and well laid out camp site. Other accommodation options are available in permanent tents at two sites. Not as large nor as crowded as bigger sister Pilanesberg which is not far away, Borakalalo does get busy during school and public holidays. Only 60 kms north of Brits, this peaceful reserve is easily accessible from both Pretoria and Johannesburg.
http://www.parksnorthwest.co.za/borakalalo/
http://www.borakalalo.co.za
Friday, November 15, 2013
Hakskeenpan??!
Hakskeenpan? What on earth is that? Or where is it? This is yet another post about something not in Gauteng but it is an awesome event for South Africa; the attempt to break the World Land Speed Record by the British 'rocket' car, the Bloodhound SSC. And not just break the current world record set in the USA in 1997 of 763 mph (the sound barrier) but to smash the 1 000 miles per hour barrier. That is over 1 600 kms per hour!
Bonneville Salt Flats in America has been the location where most of the previous records have been set although the Englishman Sir Donald Campbell driving Bluebird in 1931 set a new record right here in SA. At Verneukpan in the Northern Cape. For this attempt, numerous sites around the world were examined in minute detail and the winner was? Our very own Hakskeenpan located in the Northern Cape a little bit south of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
Factors that decided in favour of SA included: the weather, the Pan's unique alkali composition which is kinder to the forged aluminium wheels, the size and flatness (just 60mm variation over the 12 mile track!) of the pan, nearby accommodation, the good tar road from Upington, availability of electricity and communications etc. Plus the Northern Cape's government who recognised the opportunity to create jobs and to promote tourism. Backing the project was a simple decision.
A track 12 miles long and 2 miles wide (about 19.5 by over 3 kms) has already been swept clean manually of stones and pebbles larger than pea size - several times. That is the equivalent of 4 800 soccer pitches! Four massive communication towers have been erected by MTN to enable live transmission of the record attempt to a world wide audience using the latest LTE technology.
Two personalities figure as large as life. Wing Commander Andy Green is an RAF jet fighter pilot who set the record back in 1997 (and the one before that) and will be 'driving' Bloodhound in this latest attempt. Richard Noble, also an Englishman, is the previous world record holder when he set the record of 634 mph in Thrust 2 in 1983. He is the super "project manager" of this attempt. Of course they are 'the face' of the project but there are thousands of others in the team; engineers, designers, academics, sponsors, aerodynamicists to name a few.
Bloodhound SSC or SuperSonic Car is in the painstaking process of being designed, built and tested in England. Weighing in at over 6.5 tonnes, it will be powered by 1) a very powerful supercharged Jaguar car engine, 2) a Tornado fighter plane jet engine and 3) a rocket.
Several years in the making so far, the schedule includes a dry run to be conducted in probably September 2016 with the actual attempt to be made a year later. So is this project merely to re-write the record books and fly the Union Jack high? No, it is so much more than this. It will push the limits of engineering design, technology, materials, electronics and many other facets. By the way, there are currently at least two other cars being built in America and Australia to challenge for the record.
But one of the prime objectives has been to increase awareness and interest in the science, mathematics and engineering fields amongst the public at large and amongst school pupils in particular. And not just in the United Kingdom. Over 450 schools in South Africa are involved in the project as well.
Because of the Northern Cape government's direct involvement, they will be co-ordinating the tourism aspects of this event including visits to the site prior to the dry runs currently scheduled for Q3 2016 and the attempt in Q3 2017. Which allows plenty of time to plan a holiday to include Augrabies Falls, the Kgalagadi and, of course, the Bloodhound SSC World Land Speed Record attempt. Oh and why not sign up to receive the regular interesting newsletters.
www.bloodhoundssc.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloodhound_ssc
www.sanparks.org
Bonneville Salt Flats in America has been the location where most of the previous records have been set although the Englishman Sir Donald Campbell driving Bluebird in 1931 set a new record right here in SA. At Verneukpan in the Northern Cape. For this attempt, numerous sites around the world were examined in minute detail and the winner was? Our very own Hakskeenpan located in the Northern Cape a little bit south of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
Factors that decided in favour of SA included: the weather, the Pan's unique alkali composition which is kinder to the forged aluminium wheels, the size and flatness (just 60mm variation over the 12 mile track!) of the pan, nearby accommodation, the good tar road from Upington, availability of electricity and communications etc. Plus the Northern Cape's government who recognised the opportunity to create jobs and to promote tourism. Backing the project was a simple decision.
A track 12 miles long and 2 miles wide (about 19.5 by over 3 kms) has already been swept clean manually of stones and pebbles larger than pea size - several times. That is the equivalent of 4 800 soccer pitches! Four massive communication towers have been erected by MTN to enable live transmission of the record attempt to a world wide audience using the latest LTE technology.
Two personalities figure as large as life. Wing Commander Andy Green is an RAF jet fighter pilot who set the record back in 1997 (and the one before that) and will be 'driving' Bloodhound in this latest attempt. Richard Noble, also an Englishman, is the previous world record holder when he set the record of 634 mph in Thrust 2 in 1983. He is the super "project manager" of this attempt. Of course they are 'the face' of the project but there are thousands of others in the team; engineers, designers, academics, sponsors, aerodynamicists to name a few.
Bloodhound SSC or SuperSonic Car is in the painstaking process of being designed, built and tested in England. Weighing in at over 6.5 tonnes, it will be powered by 1) a very powerful supercharged Jaguar car engine, 2) a Tornado fighter plane jet engine and 3) a rocket.
Several years in the making so far, the schedule includes a dry run to be conducted in probably September 2016 with the actual attempt to be made a year later. So is this project merely to re-write the record books and fly the Union Jack high? No, it is so much more than this. It will push the limits of engineering design, technology, materials, electronics and many other facets. By the way, there are currently at least two other cars being built in America and Australia to challenge for the record.
But one of the prime objectives has been to increase awareness and interest in the science, mathematics and engineering fields amongst the public at large and amongst school pupils in particular. And not just in the United Kingdom. Over 450 schools in South Africa are involved in the project as well.
Because of the Northern Cape government's direct involvement, they will be co-ordinating the tourism aspects of this event including visits to the site prior to the dry runs currently scheduled for Q3 2016 and the attempt in Q3 2017. Which allows plenty of time to plan a holiday to include Augrabies Falls, the Kgalagadi and, of course, the Bloodhound SSC World Land Speed Record attempt. Oh and why not sign up to receive the regular interesting newsletters.
www.bloodhoundssc.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bloodhound_ssc
www.sanparks.org
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Ezemvelo, a Hidden Gem
Ezemvelo is a beautiful 11 000 hectare nature reserve owned by the Oppenheimer Trust located near Bronkhorstspruit, a mere 90 minutes east of Sandton and even less from Pretoria. Some years ago, the Trust created the
"Diamond Trail" opening up extensive land holdings across the country
initially to Birdlife SA but now to the general public.
Extensive plains of Bankenveld, the transition between grassland and savanna biomes, support herds of plains game. These include eland, gemsbok and tssessebe as well as springbok, blue wildebeest, zebra and giraffe. Elusive nocturnal animals such as brown hyena, jackal, aardwolf and leopard also make their home in the Reserve as well as "Sengi". Sengi? More commonly known as the elephant shrew, this seldom seen relative of the elephant thrives amongst the rocky outcrops and boulders. And the varied habitats make this a birdwatchers paradise with the current list totaling about 250 species. It is particularly rich in the frustrating LBJ species.
The clear Wilge River meanders through the reserve which, together with spectacular cliffs, rocky outcrops, deep gorges and rock paintings, contribute to a stunning destination.
Activities are many and varied including an extensive network of roads affording game drives, mountain biking and walking Several well marked hiking trails have been laid out ranging from about 4 to 12 kms in length and varying from easy to reasonably strenuous. An inviting swimming pool at the reception area is necessary on those hot days while a beach volleyball court is much in demand.
A number of options exist for accommodation include a beautifully located and shady camp site complete with electrical points, dormitories, overnight hiking huts, an old farmhouse and comfortable cottages. And all reasonably priced.
http://www.ezemvelo.co.za/
Monday, November 11, 2013
Cheese, Cheese, glorious Cheese
Cheese Gourmet Cafe and Deli is a landmark in Linden, renowned for the vast range of both local and imported cheeses. But there is so much more to this delightful haven for those appreciate the finer things in life.
How about Rex Union oranges? Well, what is so special about that? Pockets of these uniquely South African oranges were available recently at the Deli but the 'special' label is because there are apparently only 50 trees left growing in the Rustenburg area. A cross developed in South Africa, between a Seville orange and a pomelo and supposedly named after George Rex, they are the Rolls Royce citrus for making marmalade. Except not many people make marmalade these days so, with declining demand, farmers are replacing them with more fashionable varieties.
Owners Brian and Jo Dick travel around SA and overseas to 'slow food' and cheese fairs (amongst others) and go out of their way to discover and source top quality and unusual products, preferably local. For instance, there is an olive grove in the Magaliesberg producing top quality extra virgin cold pressed oil. Or a goats milk cheese being made in Parkhurst!
But the Deli is so much more than cheese. Yoghourts, biscuits, jams - there is plenty to excite and - Buy. The coffee shop serves great coffee, unusual and delicious breakfast dishes and freshly made light meals. A steady stream of very different functions are dreamed up - a 'long table' meal on the pavement presented with the restaurant next door, a tour of a dairy farm and their cheese making enterprise, dinners with special themes eg olive oil, chocolate, whiskey etc.
An interesting newsletter keeps addressees informed of all the activities from this most enterprising 'food emporium'.
http://jozifoodiefix.blogspot.com/2013/03/if-youre-in-linden-cheese-gourmet.html
http://eatout.co.za/restaurants/5459/johannesburg/deli-light-meals/cheese-gourmet
How about Rex Union oranges? Well, what is so special about that? Pockets of these uniquely South African oranges were available recently at the Deli but the 'special' label is because there are apparently only 50 trees left growing in the Rustenburg area. A cross developed in South Africa, between a Seville orange and a pomelo and supposedly named after George Rex, they are the Rolls Royce citrus for making marmalade. Except not many people make marmalade these days so, with declining demand, farmers are replacing them with more fashionable varieties.
Owners Brian and Jo Dick travel around SA and overseas to 'slow food' and cheese fairs (amongst others) and go out of their way to discover and source top quality and unusual products, preferably local. For instance, there is an olive grove in the Magaliesberg producing top quality extra virgin cold pressed oil. Or a goats milk cheese being made in Parkhurst!
But the Deli is so much more than cheese. Yoghourts, biscuits, jams - there is plenty to excite and - Buy. The coffee shop serves great coffee, unusual and delicious breakfast dishes and freshly made light meals. A steady stream of very different functions are dreamed up - a 'long table' meal on the pavement presented with the restaurant next door, a tour of a dairy farm and their cheese making enterprise, dinners with special themes eg olive oil, chocolate, whiskey etc.
An interesting newsletter keeps addressees informed of all the activities from this most enterprising 'food emporium'.
http://jozifoodiefix.blogspot.com/2013/03/if-youre-in-linden-cheese-gourmet.html
http://eatout.co.za/restaurants/5459/johannesburg/deli-light-meals/cheese-gourmet
Saturday, November 9, 2013
A Place that Hums - Neighbour Goods Market
Some years ago, a market was started in the buildings comprising the old "Biscuit Factory" in Woodstock, Cape Town. Such was the success of this initiative that a visitor needed to be there early to avoid the shoulder to shoulder crush that developed from mid-morning onwards. It also spawned the "Neighbourgoods Market" or NGM in Braamfontein in Johannesburg.
In the 1990's, Johannesburg Metro Council embarked on a regeneration programme in a number of strategic nodes in the Central Business District dubbed "Business Improvement Districts". One of which stretches from the edge of Hillbrow incorporating Constitution Hill, Braamfontein and Newtown. It was here that the NGM found premises in a former car park on the corner of Juta and de Beer Streets.
Two floors of this Eduardo Villas designed building are occupied by stalls and a pulsating crowd of visitors eager to sample the wares. Handmade clothes, shoes, handbags etcetera are showcased but the main attraction is a vast array of freshly prepared and delicious foods. From Argentina, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and proudly South Africa. Terrines, sausages, olives, breads, paella, champagne and oysters, cakes and tarts, pizzas, cheeses, coffee - the list is seemingly endless.
Open every Saturday from 9am until 3pm but get there early to avoid the press of the crowds. Yes, a loud hum, buzz, noise, vibe, excitement permeates the place. Definitely worth a visit. Or several.
http://www.neighbourgoodsmarket.co.za/
In the 1990's, Johannesburg Metro Council embarked on a regeneration programme in a number of strategic nodes in the Central Business District dubbed "Business Improvement Districts". One of which stretches from the edge of Hillbrow incorporating Constitution Hill, Braamfontein and Newtown. It was here that the NGM found premises in a former car park on the corner of Juta and de Beer Streets.
Two floors of this Eduardo Villas designed building are occupied by stalls and a pulsating crowd of visitors eager to sample the wares. Handmade clothes, shoes, handbags etcetera are showcased but the main attraction is a vast array of freshly prepared and delicious foods. From Argentina, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and proudly South Africa. Terrines, sausages, olives, breads, paella, champagne and oysters, cakes and tarts, pizzas, cheeses, coffee - the list is seemingly endless.
Open every Saturday from 9am until 3pm but get there early to avoid the press of the crowds. Yes, a loud hum, buzz, noise, vibe, excitement permeates the place. Definitely worth a visit. Or several.
http://www.neighbourgoodsmarket.co.za/
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
An Outing in the Magaliesberg
Located a mere 45 minutes north of Sandton and the same distance west of Pretoria, the Hennops 4 x 4 cum Hiking trail is a wonderful outing away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. The two hiking trails of 11.3 and 6.5 kms both start at the indigenous tree lined Hennops River. Clearly marked and well maintained, there are even showers at the parking areas.
The former trail crosses the river via a suspension bridge before winding up to the summit of the Skurweberg which runs parallel to the Magaliesberg affording spectacular views south to the Johannesburg skyline and north to - well forever. A birds eye view of the Pelindaba nuclear facility is also presented. Several interesting historical sites are passed including a field hospital used during the Boer War and the sites of mining activities. Arriving back at the river, an aerial "foefie slide" type chair is used for the return crossing of the river.
A lovely shady and well grassed picnic site complete with braiis, swimming pools and ablutions, is perfect for a lazy lunch after the exertions of the hike. Game can be seen during the hikes and birdwatching is rewarding particularly along the riverine forest. Basic self catering accommodation is available for those wanting to stay overnight. Other activities include a mountain biking trail and a well known 4x4 trail.
A modest fee is charged for the use of the hiking and MTB trails with a higher fee for the 4x4 trail. The close proximity to both Jo'burg and Pretoria combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, the great facilities and the well maintained trails make this an outstanding destination.
http://www.hennops.co.za/default.aspx
The former trail crosses the river via a suspension bridge before winding up to the summit of the Skurweberg which runs parallel to the Magaliesberg affording spectacular views south to the Johannesburg skyline and north to - well forever. A birds eye view of the Pelindaba nuclear facility is also presented. Several interesting historical sites are passed including a field hospital used during the Boer War and the sites of mining activities. Arriving back at the river, an aerial "foefie slide" type chair is used for the return crossing of the river.
A lovely shady and well grassed picnic site complete with braiis, swimming pools and ablutions, is perfect for a lazy lunch after the exertions of the hike. Game can be seen during the hikes and birdwatching is rewarding particularly along the riverine forest. Basic self catering accommodation is available for those wanting to stay overnight. Other activities include a mountain biking trail and a well known 4x4 trail.
A modest fee is charged for the use of the hiking and MTB trails with a higher fee for the 4x4 trail. The close proximity to both Jo'burg and Pretoria combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, the great facilities and the well maintained trails make this an outstanding destination.
http://www.hennops.co.za/default.aspx
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