Ohrigstad - Mpumalanga

Ohrigstad nestles in a valley on the R36 between the Abel Erasmus Pass and Lydenburg. The oldest town on the Panorama Route, it was established by the Voortrekkers in 1845.

Relics of Iron Age and Stone Age found in the area indicate that the Pedi and San groups lived here thousands of years ago.

Today Ohrigstad is mostly a farming community and a diverse range of crops are produced.

Ohrigstad has stunning natural scenery, a moderate climate and a tranquil environment. Our life is relaxed and peaceful and our style unique and exclusive.

From the accommodation establishments to the handmade furniture, art & décor, there is something for everyone!

Ohrigstad is only 4 hours from Johannesburg / Pretoria, en-route to the Kruger National Park.

It is ideally located to be used as a base from which to explore the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, God’s Window and Pilgrim’s Rest.

Ohrigstad Dam Nature Reserve is situated on the edge of the Greater Drakensberg Escarpment, in the majestic mountain scenery, close to the major tourist route to Pilgrim’s Rest and the Lowveld.

Birdwatching combined with long walks along the edge of the dam make this an ideal stopover for visitors to the area. Yellow fish, barbel, tilapia and carp can be caught at the dam.

To get to the reserve take the R36 from Lydenburg for 29km, turn left towards Pilgrim's Rest and you'll find Ohrigstad Dam clearly signposted to the right.

Ohrigstad lies in a malaria-free area.

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Waterval-Boven and Waterval-Onder

The towns of Waterval-Boven and Waterval-Onder are situated at the foot of the escarpment east of Machadadorp, a two-hour drive from Gauteng.

The area around the Elands River Falls was given the names "Waterval Boven" and "Waterval Onder" which means "above the falls" and "below the falls" respectively. The history of the area is closely tied with that of the railway that was built between Pretoria and Delagoa Bay, and the Nederlandsche Zuid Afrikaansche Spoorweg, the Dutch rail company, who established a railway supply depot here in 1895. A section of the rack rail, which was used to pull the locomotive and carriages up the steep gradient, can still be seen at the entrance to the railway tunnel.

The towns of Waterval Boven and Waterval Onder are rich with South African (Anglo-Boer) War history and the area was fiercely contested by the British towards the end of the war. Visitors can see a memorial at the station which commemorates the many men who lost their lives while building this section of the railway, while it is still possible to take a walk through the historic ZASM tunnel through which the trains used to pass.

At the end of the tunnel is a beautiful waterfall that moves along the Elands River. Krugerhof, now a provincial heritage site in Waterval Onder, is where President Paul Kruger lived for a month before going into exile in Austria in 1900. Both the old railway tunnel and the five-arched bridge have been proclaimed provincial heritage sites.

The malaria-free Waterval Boven and Onder are situated within Mpumalanga's Highlands Meander, which is a nature lover's paradise. Bird lovers will not be disappointed, while the wild flower displays in summer are spectacular and of particular interest is the fact that this area is home to Africa's only breeding community of wild Black Leopard. The highveld reaches a dramatic end at Waterval Boven, at the Mpumalanga Escarpment, where the landscape drops abruptly into the Lowveld.

There are many activities to keep travellers happy, and some of these include excellent trout fishing opportunities, walks and hikes, horse-riding and backpacking. One of the best ways to see the countryside is by steam train. The historic Oosterlyjn Express steam train retraces President Kruger's route between Machadodorp and Waterval Boven, and includes a cosy pub lunch. On the last Sunday of every month, visitors can enjoy some of the most scenic locomotive routes in South Africa, by taking a vintage train trip from Waterval Boven to Waterval Onder.

Waterval Boven is renowned for its awesome rock climbing and abseiling, as well as other adventure sports like paragliding, handgliding and hot-air ballooning. The Boven area boasts three well-stocked dams and six kilometres of fine river fishing and is a fly-fishing mecca.

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Parys – South Africa

The charming town of Parys is situated along the banks of the Vaal River and was established in 1876 by the Van Coller brothers on Klipspruit Farm. It is the agricultural center for the farming community of the area as well as a base for the many resorts, which have been built on the Islands nearby.

The town was romantically named by its surveyor, Schilbach, who was reminded of the French town of Paris, which was similarly situated along the banks of the river Seine. This area has become one of the most popular destinations along the Vaal River.

The Vaal, with birds abound, is studded with tree-covered islands of which several have been developed into pleasure resorts. Boating, fishing and swimming provide endless opportunities for relaxation.

In the vicinity, there are lovely parks, gardens and picnic spots. From lying peacefully under the shade of a tree – to ripping through the wake of powerful motorboats on a pair of skis – Parys accommodates it all!

Where the Vaal River meets the town, it stretches for about a kilometer, its shores lined with weeping willows and an invitation to those fond of water sports.

The town center of Parys developed over a number of years into an authentic tourism paradise with interesting knick-knack corners, art, antique & coffee shops & visiting places. Parys, with all the amenities & luxuries of a modern city, has retained the “magical charm” of small town atmosphere offering a happy medium between old world country charm & adventurous outdoor activities.

Visitors can also choose between a variety of Hiking Trails taking them into the hilly countryside surrounding Parys incorporating game viewing, bird spotting, viewing the remains of diamond diggings along the river & exploring the many battle sites within the vicinity.

Parys is a popular tourist destination, affording the visitor endless opportunities for leisure and adventure.

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ATKV Drakensville Holiday Resort

Situated in the foothills of the majestic Northern Drakensberg range, Drakensville is considered to be one of South Africa's premier Drakensberg holiday resorts. Set in the tranquillity and peace of Mother Nature, surrounded by some of her most precious gifts, this Drakensberg holiday resort is a haven of beauty and serenity.

It is ideally located just 350 kilometres (217.5 miles) from Johannesburg, 350 kilometres from Bloemfontein and 250 kilometres (155.3 miles) from Durban.

Become one with nature as you are transported to a new world, a world where hospitality, warmth and relaxation reign supreme and the only sounds you hear are the calls of the wild in the distance. Let the magical sights, sounds and smells of Africa inspire your senses and lull you into a state of complete bliss, a place where time stands still and beauty is infinite.

Drakensville offers various accommodation options to suit all needs, from bed and breakfast accommodation and self-catering flats, to family friendly house and caravan and camping sites.

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ATKV Buffelspoort

ATKV Buffelspoort near Rustenburg in the North-West Province is a self-catering holiday resort situated next to the majestic Magalies Mountain Range and is well known for its clean and safe environment. The popular caravan park is only 5 km from Buffelspoort Dam and has shaded, demarcated and paved stands, all equipped with water and electricity. Comfortable rondavels and chalets add to a memorable visit for a family or group.

ATKV Buffelspoort offers a wide variety of accommodation for visitors who wish to explore the Platinum Province. The resort offers rondavels, each with its own bathroom, toilet and fully equipped kitchen. For discerning holidaymakers there are luxury rondavels which are equipped similarly, but with additional conveniences like a television and microwave oven. For guests requiring more space, there are flats with six to eight beds and two bathrooms each. The chalets are ideal for those looking for something more affordable.

When the subtropical heat starts sticking to the skin, guests may cool off in the refreshing swimming pools. Or, if they prefer to avoid the cold surprise, they may treat themselves to the heated indoor swimming pool. Lie back in the refreshing indoor bubble bath, or tackle the wonderful water tube! Energetic outdoor enthusiasts may explore the environment on their own mountain bikes.

Most recreational facilities can be enjoyed free of charge and include a large indoor heated pool and three outdoor pools of which one is heated, tennis, squash and volley ball courts, mini-golf, pony-rides, an animal farm, a water slide, Jacuzzis, trampolines and poll table. The excellent cuisine served by the restaurant can be enjoyed in the picturesque main building, the outdoor pool-side restaurant or in the cosy sports bar which is equipped with DSTV. A fast-food outlet, liquor store and shop will provide you with your every need. During school holidays one can join the holiday program which includes games, competitions and shows by some of the best artists in South Africa.

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Forever Resorts – Tshipise

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“Tshipise” means “something warm”, and the famous Tshipise koppie towers protectively over the Resort. Giant baobabs dot the landscape and the Resort’s self-catering rondavels and comfortable caravan park are barely visible among the Mopani, red bush willow and jakkalsbessie trees.

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The Resort is also within comfortable travelling distance from the Kruger National Park with the northern Pafuri Gate 105km away. The Resort offers a 6-sleeper luxury guest house, 96 air-conditioned (2 to 5 sleeper) thatched rondavels, and a shady 370 caravan and camping park (all equipped with electrical points), serviced by seven ablution units.

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With its wonderful healing water, traditional spa and relaxing bushveld atmosphere, Forever Resorts Tshipise is justly known as the Jewel of the Bushveld in the Limpopo Province. At Tshipise you find mineral pools to soothe the body and hospitality to warm the heart. Soak away your cares at the Resort’s mineral bath or one of 3 pools. Play a game of tennis on the floodlit courts, or bowls on a floodlit green.

LEISURE FACILITIES

·         Naturally Hot Outdoor Swimming Pool

·         Heated swimming pool

·         Hot indoor mineral pools

·         Tennis

·         Horse riding

·         Game viewing

·         Bowls

·         Nature walks

·         Bird watching

·         Mineral baths

·         Pony rides

OTHER FACILITIES

·         Supermarket

·         Butchery

·         Liquor store

·         Laundry

RESTAURANT

The Mbuyu Restaurant for a la Carte or buffet.

HONNET GAME RESERVE

Explore our Game reserve accompanied by one of our rangers in a land rover or on horseback. Approximately 17 species of game can be seen in our Resort’s Game reserve.

Acknowledgement: Forever Resorts

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Hartbeespoort Dam

Hartbeespoort dam, with its spectacular scenery and the village surrounding it, are in close proximity to Johannesburg and Pretoria and is the principal water recreation area of Northern Gauteng.

The Hartbeespoort Dam, surrounded by the majesty of the Magaliesberg mountain range, is a popular destination for weekend getaways or day trips. All water sports may be enjoyed including para-sailing, windsurfing, water and jet skiing.

For the more adventurous the Dam offers paragliding, hang-gliding or hot air ballooning.

There is an aquarium, private zoo, a snake park and a cable way. Or, explore and discover the scenic beauty, entertaining attractions, fun activities & places of interest of this wonderful land.

The village of Hartbeespoort is situated along the shores of the dam, among undulating hills and panoramic views on the dam and the majestic Magaliesberg Mountains.

Enjoy the tranquillity of the hills and valleys, the scenic drives, challenging hikes and gentle rambles on offer.

Also of interest is the Crocodile Ramble, an arts and crafts route with day visitor and overnight facilities.

The Heritage Route starts at the dam, going north to the Pilanesberg National Park and on to the Madikwe Game Reserve in the north.

Activities

· African Water Safari

Enjoy lunch while cruising across the dam in this floating restaurant.

·  Cheese Factory

Sample some local concoctions at this factory located in Skeerpoort.

·  Hans Kretschmer

Exclusive woodwork and handcrafted sword sticks.

· Hartbeespoort Cableway

A magnificent view awaits those who take this cable car to the top of the Magaliesberg.

· Hartbeespoort Snake & Animal Park

A rewarding close up encounter with nature.

· South East Harbour Development

Consisting of two restaurants - Dockers and the open-air Fisherman's Arms.

·  Tan' Malie se Winkel

A local institution, near the dam wall, offering everything dainty and artistic.

·  Magalies Park

An all-encompassing venue for outdoor activities, offering a restaurant, golf course, tennis courts, sauna and canoeing.

·  Chameleon Village

Curio Village and entertainment centre with various restaurants and shops. Venue for Live Entertainment.

· Chameleon Village Reptile Park

Live reptile shows daily. Snake breeding.

·  Hartbeespoort Bird Gardens

Bird breeding and retail shop

Clarens the jewel of the Eastern Free State

The village of Clarens is situated in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in close proximity to the Golden Gate National Park and the mountain kingdom of Lesotho. Clarens is an Artists haven with many well-known artists either living in or frequenting the village on a regular basis with many art galleries scattered around the village square. The tranquil village ambience combined with scenic views and a mild climate makes for the ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers from Johannesburg, Bloemfontein and Durban. These cities are all approximately 300km from Clarens or a comfortable 3 to 4 hours drive away.

The village has become known as the "Jewel of the Free State" - rich in beauty, with an aura of peace and tranquillity. Clarens is endowed with more trees than most other Free State towns - the fresh, light green willows and colourful blossoms of the many fruit trees are an unforgettable sight in spring time; whilst the magnificent autumn shades of the Lombard poplars attract artists, photographers and nature lovers. The town is known for the many Art and Craft shops which offer the visitor a wide range of curios and original artwork. Another feature which adds to the picturesque atmosphere of the village is the many sandstone buildings. The popular Golden Gate National Park is located in the near vicinity of Clarens, and the area attracts many visitors.

Clarens is part of the scenic Highlands Route and is surrounded by mountainous splendour. The Rooiberge is the range encompassing the village, whilst further on towards the southeast, the mighty Maluti’s stand proud in shades of purple and blue. All around is the sandstone cliffs with their multi-coloured layers - these horizontal strata is a unique geological feature of the area, and is known as the Clarens formation. Many homes in the Clarens Valley are made from Clarens Sandstone.

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Gamkaskloof

Gamkaskloof, approximately 100 kilometers from Oudtshoorn in South Africa, also known as ("Die Hel") is surrounded by the Swartberg Nature Reserve.

 Fonteinplaas, privately owned by Annetjie Joubert (neé Mostert) offers visitors overnight facilities in two historic farmhouses as well as on shaded campsites. Accommodation is on a Dinner, Bed & Breakfast basis with self-catering an option. Meals are served in the "Oude Klowers Plaaskombuis" a fully licensed restaurant that specialises in traditional Gamkaskloof meals. They also cater for functions and weddings.

At Fonteinplaas you will find Annetjie, the only remaining, born and bred Gamkaskloofer at her Kiosk, where you can get anything from firewood, witblits, cold beer and cold drinks, to a variety of Gamkaskloof curios and organically grown fruit, both fresh (in season) as well as preserves. The latest speciality: Aloe Verox jam!

There you can chat and listen to Annetjie and relive the rich history of the Kloof, illustrated by various photo albums, books, magazine articles and of course the Kloof itself....

Interesting Facts

Gamkaskloof or "Die Hel" as it has become known is a hidden valley, deep in the heart of the formidable Swartberg Mountain Range. The fertile valley runs in an east-west direction and is approximately 20 km long and 600 metres wide.

The Kloof gets its name from the Khoisan word for Lion - Gamka - also the name of the river that enters the valley from the north. There are about 153 species of bird-life in Gamkaskloof, even the fish eagle makes its appearance from time to time. Wildlife includes - Klipspringers, Grey Rhebuck, Rooikat, Porcupines, and Leopard.

The Valley features the Gamka River, Camp sites, Picnic Sites, several historic houses and outbuildings, a school, a cemetery, and old Norse watermill, a landing strip and a curious history.

Kanoneiland

Kanoneiland is a beautiful settlement situated in the Northern Cape in South Africa. What makes this settlement stand out from the rest is that it is situated on the largest inland island in the gorgeous Orange River Valley. It is, in fact, the biggest river settlement in the country.

Kanoneiland gets its name from the days when Koranna river pirates under the leadership of Klaas Pofadder lived on the island and hid in the dense foliage. In 1879 the island was attacked by a small cannon for a number of days by a force of 80 policemen under Captain Dyason. In response, the Korannas built their own cannon from a hollow aloe stem. They loaded this with gunpowder and when they fired, it exploded and killed 6 Koranna. The cannon used by the Cape Field Artillery can still be seen today in front of the old school building.

In 1928, a group of 52 private settlers began to clear this beautiful island for cultivation. The irrigation scheme in the area supports the lush vineyards that are truly glorious to look at. In winter, the island can hardly be seen and looks like a series of vineyards on dry land. However, when it is rainy season, the water levels rise quite considerably and the islanders often have to put up barrages to prevent the water from flooding the island. Fortunately the residential parts have been built on the highest parts of the island and the islanders' homes are generally safe.

Guided tours of the island are an experience not to be missed! It is a truly beautiful island boasting an abundance of lush foliage and fields. Groups of up to 20 people at a time can be catered for. One can enjoy the traditional meals of the islanders as well as the delicious locally produced wines. The people here are friendly and hospitable and the accommodation is superb! The tranquillity and beauty of this area attracts many people here yearly.

Kanoneiland is one not to be missed!

Kaapsehoop

Kaapsehoop also known as Kaapshehoop or Kaapschehoop is a fairytale town with a rich and historical history which is the perfect place to unwind.

Kaapsehoop is situated 25km southwest of Nelspruit on a buttress of the Mpumalanga escarpment.

Kaapsehoop is a well looked after and protected area that has a wide array of endangered bird species to be seen. This is one of Kaapsehoop’s biggest attractions and it draws 1000’s of bird lovers each year to come and explore. If you read a little on the history of Kaapsehoop, you’re bound to find a mystical story or two about the wild horses that roam around the area. Approximately 160 to 200 feral horses roam the 17 000 hectares of Kaapsehoop and surrounds. Herds range in size from bachelor herds of around 3 to larger more structured herds of 15 to 20 horses. They are enjoyed by visitors and locals alike and share a protective interest by the residents of Kaapsehoop. Visitors can be seen staring at the horses for hours in amazement just watching them wild and free, roaming around. One of the most popular activities as you can imagine is horse riding and many horse riding trails are available including some lengthy 7 day trails.

Kaapsehoop is most popular during the summer months when morning and evening temperatures range from 18 to 20 degrees and midday temperatures around 28 to 30 degrees. Summer rainfalls are typical either late afternoon or during the evenings and are ideal for the family to get together and spend quality time together. Winter seasons are chilly yet comfortable during the day with temperatures around 20 degrees midday.

Kaapsehoop is a beautiful quiet place to visit and the wild horses will definitely amaze you. If you’re an animal lover and enjoy horse riding then this will be a wonderful holiday destination for you when you visit South Africa.

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Shamwari - Sarili Lodge

Sarili Lodge in the Eastern Cape - the perfect combination between a colonial and bush experience. Perfect for families or small parties.

An environmentally friendly private African thatch designed villa with a spacious deck overlooking the Bushman’s River with expansive views of the plains, the lodge is positioned in the southern region of the Reserve. The décor emulates an old traditional farmhouse with interiors that reflect an easy living home lifestyle in a natural environment.

The lodge consists of five suites and can sleep a maximum of ten (10) guests. The lodge features a child friendly swimming pool, dining and lounge areas, courtyard barbeque area and special children’s menu. Child minders are available at an additional cost.

Shamwari offers a special “Kids on Safari” programme where kids aged 4 and older have a chance of a lifetime to view the Big 5, view a special educational film and visit the Born Free Foundation and Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

Safaris & Drives

Kids on Safari: A truly unique, educational and fun family safari.

Upon arrival, the children’s co-ordinator will discuss activity options with the family taking the family’s size, children’s ages and the weather into consideration. Child minding facilities are available at an additional cost for children younger than four years as they are too young to join game drives.

Each child will receive an age-appropriate gift pack.

Exclusive visit to the Born Free Foundation Big Cat Rescue Centre

Activities are focused on promoting the conservation of species and the protection of habitat whilst maintaining a humane and compassionate approach to the welfare of animals.

Shamwari Wildlife Hospital

Different types of wild animals or raptors that are being cared for at the time, under special supervision by the Shamwari veterinarian team, for release back into the wild.

Shamwari Film Studio

Children will be given a sneak preview of the film footage of the new “Shamwari – a wild life” series, which is due for airing in August/September 2008 on the Discovery Channel’s Animal Planet.

Exclusive access to one of the Shamwari Film Studio crew members is available to film and produce a high quality DVD of your family safari. Advanced bookings are essential as the filming and production of the DVD is at an additional cost. You enjoy the moment while we record the memories.

Children can partake in various social, sporting and arts and cultural activities under the supervision of our children’s co-ordinator. Options could include: African bead making, clay making activities, face painting, star-gazing and African story-telling.

Special notes:

All swimming activities must be supervised by parents at all times.

Children younger than four years of age are too young to join game drives.

Parents must accompany children of younger than four years when visiting the Born Free Centre and Shamwari Wildlife Hospital.

Children’s menu available.

Lai-La Log Cabins - St Lucia Estuary

Lai-La Log Cabins is a rustic peaceful experience; offering our guests 6 x 2 two bedroom self-catering wooden log cabins with braai area.

Covered parking, a beautiful garden with many species of birds and small animals like e.g. red duiker and squirrels. A swimming pool with sea view, it is close to iMfolozi / Hluhluwe game reserves.

Boat trips and game drives, including fishing and hiking can be arranged. It is also near to walking trails, the estuary, and the beach. Use Lai-La as a base, and go to Cape Vidal, the Game Reserves and do a cultural tour, Whale watching and turtle tours when in season, and any other excursions.

The log cabins consist of 2 bedrooms (king size double bed and 2 single beds or 4 single beds) air conditioners, a bathroom, kitchen, with a fridge and deep freeze, a microwave and a four plate stove and oven, a lounge, television with DSTV (21 selected channels). There is also an undercover veranda if a person prefers to sit outside. There is a braai (barbecue) area, swimming pool, a carport for your vehicle next to the cabin and a remote control security gate.

Activities & Services:

1. Walking trail - 2 km   (500 metres from the cabin) - ideal for bird watchers, there is also a few duikers and antelopes.

2. Walking trail at the crocodile centre which can take for 30 min to 4 hours - At this walking trail you may see, Zebra, Wildebeest (gnu) and a variety of antelopes.

3. A trip to Cape Vidal where a person can do snorkelling. If You are not a beach person, on the way there are a few loop roads, and you can see buffalo, rhinoceros, hippopotamus, kudus, warthogs, bush pigs, zebra and a variety of antelopes. If you are lucky you can see the leopard and hyena. You can also stop at mission rock and take a walk to bats cave.

4. Deep sea fishing and or surf fishing

5. Horse Riding on the beach or in the reserve.

6. Kayaking.

7. Hluhluwe/Unfolozi game reserve (55km)

8. Cheetah Farm (about 1h. 30min.

9. You can hire a bicycle.

10. Boat ride in the estuary to see the crocodile and hippopotamus.(2 hours)

11. Cultural Tours. (2hours)

12. Trip to Khula Village (2 to 3 hours)

13. Night drive in the reserve.

14. Whale Watching during June to November.

15. Turtle tours during December and January.

16. If you want to relax you may go to the estuary (lagoon) and watch the hippoppotamus playing and the crocodiles.

17. There is a golf course in Monzi, 10 km away from St Lucia

18. A bowling green in St Lucia about 500 meters from the log cabins.