Mrs. Emmarentia Geldenhuys' Estate

Take 81 hectares of prime real estate just 6 kilometres from the Johannesburg CBD, build a 7.5 hectare dam, plant some 30 000 trees and 4 500 roses and what do you have?  The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens and the Emmarentia Dam, a favourite destination for canoeists, cyclists, joggers and dog walkers alike.  Not to forget picnickers.

Back in 1886, a Mr. Louw Geldenhuys bought part of the historic Braamfontein farm and created the Dam named after his wife to be, Emmarentia.  Upon his death, it was bequeathed to the City who used part of the land to develop some sports fields while the rest was left as indigenous grasslands. It was only in 1968 that the City Council agreed to develop the Botanical Gardens, a long time after they had gone out of fashion internationally.

The Rose Garden was terraced and planted with a wide variety of roses set amongst a number of ornate fountains.  A herb garden is planted with many species that are used for both traditional medicinal, beauty and culinary purposes. In addition, a succulent garden has been developed over the years and now numbers over 2 500 plants, the most extensive on the continent.

The Gardens belong to a network of similar gardens around the world that exchange seeds each year and a number of the trees have been grown from these seeds.  Some of these are quite rare and endangered in their native habitats.    

Refreshments are available from a tea terrace while the arboretum hosts exhibitions eg the annual Orchid Exhibition and talks.  It is also an ideal area to host events such as kite flying competitions as well as musical performances.  It is a great family destination and conveniently located.  



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Suikerbosrand - a Nature Reserve

Suikerbosrand (Afrikaans for Sugarbush ridge, the Sugarbush or protea caffra is a protea species found in the reserve) is a delightful 13 000 hectare reserve providing a quiet refuge a mere 30 minutes south of the busy concrete jungle of Johannesburg on the N3 motorway to Durban. The "ridge" or mountain range which comprises the bulk of the reserve, rises to the highest point in Gauteng at approximately 2000m above sea level and consists mainly of grassland forested with indigenous trees in the ravines and some acacia karoo on the southern slopes. 

A scenic 60 km circular drive traversing the mountain range, is marked at various points of interest and boasts a pretty picnic area half way round complete with braai (or barbecue) facilities and toilets.  A large playground and a 19th century historic farmyard (tours may be arranged), form part of the main picnic area located at the entrance.  Horse trails can be arranged in advance.
Over 20 species of game including eland, zebra, black wildebeest, springbuck, hartebeest, kudu, tssesseb, leopard etc roam the reserve while birdwatching can turn up some special species (total 286) such as the Orange River Francolin.  Both cycling and hiking are popular activities: the circular drive provides a stern test for the cyclists while hiking trails range from 4.5kms to 17kms for single day outings.  A network of additional trails allows up to 6 days of hiking to be undertaken complete with overnight huts.

Hotel accommodation (3/4 star quality) is available in a secluded valley.
Contact the Reserve: +27 11 904 3930
           Protea Hotel: +27 16 365 5334


  http://www.gauteng.net/attractions/entry/suikerbosrand_nature_reserve/