Magaliesburg

Lisa Cohn

The rather small (blink and you’ll miss it) village of Magaliesburg can be reached by taking a rather picturesque and relaxing hour or so drive westward fom Jo’burg or Pretoria. The village itself lies in a valley between gorgeous mountains, indigenous woodlands, and meandering rivers. Within a small stretch of kilometres, a large assortment of activities exists of the kind to entertain any nature of people. Whatever your thing is, if you need a weekend getaway, this area has it.

Your first stop should always be the Magalies Tourist shack for the latest on what’s up in the region, which could be anything from the CellarRats Wine Fest, to the Adoons Mountain Bike Relay.

For those who choose to relax, there are plenty spa’s in the region, both of the day and overnight variety. Activities in the area include, hot air balloon safaris, mountain bike rentals, geological trips into caves, strawberry picking farms, food festivals, elephant safaris at a nearby elephant rehabilitation Sanctuary, the Dutch cheese making farm just off a road in close proximity, and so on. (You see? Really; something for everyone!).

Or, you can choose, as we did, to grab the map, marked with various locations, restaurants and more, and explore by yourself.

We were lucky enough to stay at the jewel of the region, the inimitably stylish and recently refurbished MountGrace hotel. Having our own suite with its private heated pool on its own private wood panelled deck was unparalleled luxury. Not to mention the flat screen TV, espresso machines in the rooms, golf cart to our door, incredible food, unbelievable and award-winning spa on the premises, and service to die for. For years I have been popping into the MountGrace for tea on a Sunday, but had not yet seen the refurbishment. Do yourself a favour, even if you do not stay there, eat there! It is a treat. Smoking post dinner in the cigar lounge in front of a roaring fire, quiet luxury all around, I had to surmise that life is worth the living.

Although we ate most of our meals at our fabulous hotel, we did venture to a charming antique store-cum-bistro called Moulin Rouge. Incredible homemade food, homemade ginger beer and lemonade, an array of splendid wines and even home rolled cigarettes with their own blend of tobaccos! The chef herself wanders amongst the patrons with her new puppy, chatting easily and sharing recipes. If you so desire, they also teach drawing and painting there!

Afterwards we meandered down the road to Goblins Cove – a recreation of Lord of the Rings if there ever was one. Words cannot describe it. Suffice to say if you have kids, bring them here, and if you’re a grown up, it’ll bring out your inner child. It also has a lovely old train carriage which serves as a B&B.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the Sneaky Weekender articles on this website, do not necessarily reflect the views of Finding Africa.