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As Gautengers, we often envy Capetonians who have a seemingly never-ending list of weekend

breakaway destinations on their doorsteps. They have the ocean and the winelands and the Cederberg ... all we’ve really got is Kruger, right? Wrong. Your ideal weekend away is closer than

you think – why not make it this one? By Tabby Mittins and Villiers Steyn.

reasons to live for the

weekend

30 french romanceStepping into La Provence D’Afrique, near Magaliesburg, might be the closest you’ll ever get to old France. A cool, cobbled, indoor street café leads off into seven unusual chateaux-style suites, designed and decorated by owner and artist Charles Gotthard. We like La Passion and Le Petit Boudoir for their light and layout, but every room practically drips with French romance and is decorated with antique furniture,

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Mountain cottageIf you’re after a glorious location, complete privacy and attention to detail (such as information on which birdseed to leave where to attract specific species), look no further than Igababa Cabin just north of Louis Trichardt. The quaint cottage has a fireplace, outside braai area and a private plunge pool, but the highlight is the outdoor bath overlooking the Soutpansberg Mountains. Call the owners if you want the cabin serviced and all the roads and paths leading to the cottage have no-entry signs, so you don’t have to worry about peeping Toms. In fact, you don’t need to see another soul for the entire weekend. Self-catering from R700 a person a night (minimum two nights). Tel 084-400-4595, email gail@zka.co.za, www.zka.co.za.

Do ThISScatter the provided birdseed around the outdoor bath and enjoy southern boubous and yellow-eyed canaries feeding as you soak.

reconnect with natureForget the bustle and madness of the city at hollybrooke Farm in the shadow of the Magalies-berg. Soak up the carefree atmosphere while you enjoy horseback riding or cycling along the cool, forested banks of the Magalies River with a couple of farmyard dogs at your heels. Basic, self-catering stone cottages (the special thing about them is their location near the river and the farm vibe) from R800 a two-sleeper cabin a night (R900 for B&B). Tel 082-552-1285, info@hollybrooke.co.za, www.holly-brooke.co.za.

Do ThISOrder a Champagne picnic (R200 a person) from The Coffee Shoppe al fresco restaurant and enjoy a quiet afternoon under the trees beside the Magalies River.

Victorian bathtubs and wood- burning fireplaces. Breakfast is served under weeping willows beside the Magalies River, a set-ting even more romantic than the rooms. B&B is from R699 a person a night sharing – ask about the weekend spa pack-ages. Tel 082-900-8205, email outofafrika@telkomsa.net, www.laprovencedafrique.co.za. Do ThIS Goblin’s Cove restaurant (www.thegoblinscove.co.za), seven kilometres down the R96, is like journeying into an enchanted forest. Also designed by Gotthard, the delightful dining rooms are filled with magical creatures that adorn the walls and peek out at you from corners. Experience the magical setting at its best with dinner. Closed on Monday and Tuesdays. Weekend bookings essential.

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wild encountersDon’t be surprised if a couple of ostriches or a herd of impala wander through Marakele National Park’s Bontle Campsite as you’re setting up, they may even try to share your shade while you’re dozing in the heat of the day. It’s in the small Kwaggasvlakte section of the park (which is near Thabazimbi) at the base of the imposing Waterberg Mountains. Camping is from R185 a site a night for the first two people (extra adults pay from R62 each, up to a maximum of six people). Tel 012-428-9111, email reservations@sanparks.org, www.sanparks.org.

Do ThISPlant your camping chairs at the edge of the campsite an hour before sunset and watch as blue wildebeest, ostrich, impala, zebra, tsessebe and, if you’re lucky, white rhino come down to graze. Don’t forget the gin and tonic.

safari near the cityDespite its proximity to Pretoria (only 45 minutes away, near Hammanskraal) and the odd glimpse of a distant pylon or boundary fence, Mongena Game Lodge offers a surprisingly wild bush experience. It feels like the Sabi Sands in Gauteng,

complete with open game vehicles, know-ledgeable trackers on the front, and snacks on the bonnet at sunset. You could even see all of the Big Five (the last game drive of the day at 16h30 is usually best for game viewing). Dinokeng Game Reserve, in which Mongena is located, is at its most beautiful after the rains between December and April. Thatched chalets surrounded by rolling lawns and indigenous gardens are from R780 a person a night sharing (B&B). Tel 012-711-8920, email relax@mongena.co.za, www.mongena.co.za.

Do ThISOrder a Giant Kingfisher meal (steak, lamb chop and boerewors stacked on traditional pap) or the catch of the day from the on-site Kingfisher Restaurant.

Pilanesberg gemIt might be a fraction of the Kruger National Park’s size, but at Pilanesberg Nature Reserve, near Rustenburg, you stand a chance to see not only the Big Five, but also rare species such as cheetah, wild dog and even brown hyena. While there’s a variety of accom-modation options, Manyane Resort is ideal for families who love to camp. It’s large and has ample shade and power points, as well as a swimming pool, restaurant and small shop. Camping is from R260 a site a night (with power, up to six people). Tel 014-555-1000.

Do ThISTake your tripod and camera to Mankwe hide in the middle of the Pilanesberg Reserve and photo-graph African darters and reed cormorants sunning themselves on dead tree branches. Frequent visitors to the park, readers Miné and Douw van Zyl, offer this great insider’s tip. ‘The roads around Mankwe can become congested, so we prefer the quieter Nare and Tlou drives in the west of the park. The latter leads to a quiet hide at Ruighoek Dam.’

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royal treatmentIf you’ve ever wanted to be spoilt rotten, Monate Conser-vation Lodge, near Mookgophong (formerly Naboomspruit), is the place for you. Between morning and evening game drives, gourmet meals are served with a flourish and a smile, and quiet, comfortable facilities help you to tune out the demands of city life. One part of the reserve is covered by Serengeti-like plains where zebra and giraffe are often obliging models for photos. Ask your guide to stop for sundowners

under the massive marula tree at the edge of these plains. Don’t be surprised if you find it very hard to leave. DB&B costs from R1 200 a person a night, which includes two game drives or bush walks daily. Tel 014-718-7000, email info@monatelodge.com, www.monatelodge.com.

Do ThISAsk your guide to show you the reserve’s historically signifi-cant rock art, some of which dates back to the Stone Age.

Bush relaxationBorakalalo Game Reserve, translated as ‘where people go to relax’, is a lazy little provincial nature reserve near Brits and a great alternative to Pilanesberg. Don’t expect any mega wildlife sightings, but enjoy the complete lack of vehicle pile-ups when you stop to view resident herds of waterbuck, kudu and hippo instead. All you hear when you sit down and close your eyes in Phudufudu Tented Camp are birds. With just 10 safari tents, a communal kitchen and braai facilities, it’s ideal for a group getaway. From R450 a two-sleeper tent a night. Tel 012-729-4101, email borakalalo@mtnloaded.co.za, www.parksnorthwest.co.za/borakalalo.

Do ThISExplore the park on a self-guided walking trail (marked on the reserve map you get at the entrance gate). Keep an eye out for white rhino.

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Unlimited freedomThe purpose of Mountain Sanctuary Park, a scenic and restful hiking destination on the rocky slopes of the Magaliesberg, is to give hikers the opportunity to hike wherever they want to, for however long they want, without a guide. You’re only limited by how far your feet can carry you. Animals such as klipspringer, black-backed jackal and vervet monkey occur on the property and since no music or noise is allowed in the camp, you’re ensured of peace and quiet. The self-catering log cabins are afford-able, sleep up to four people each and have great views of the reserve and Buffelspoort Dam. From R450 a person a night. Tel 082-707-5538, email owen@mountain-sanctuary.co.za, www.mountain-sanctuary.co.za.

Do ThIS Take an easy 15-minute hike to the Slide Pools, where an icy stream flows over an area of flat-tened rock. Take your cozzie and a packed lunch and make a day of it.

fantastic fishingWalking down to the five dams on Brookwood Estate and Trout Farm, on the banks of the Blaauw-bank River near Krugersdorp, you’ll think you’ve stepped into the rural English countryside. The grounds are well maintained and dams are fully stocked. All fishing gear is available for daily hire and fishing advice is free. The two, cosy, four-sleeper chalets and one two-sleeper cabin on the property are popular, so make sure you book in advance. Self-catering from R300 a person a night. Tel 082-856-2448, email info@brookwoodtroutfarm.co.za, www.brookwoodtroutfarm.co.za.

Do ThISThe braai areas on the water’s edge are a nice touch – it’s always good to know lunch couldn’t be fresher!

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rural retreatTucked away in the hills about 30 kilometres north of Dull-stroom, the 12-sleeper Stone Tin Cottage is perfect for a group of good friends or family to spend a quiet weekend away whether you fish or not. Call ahead to check on the roads; if it’s rained you’ll need a 4x4 to cover the last few kilometres of dirt road. Even if it’s dry, it’s a bumpy ride, so give yourself at least 45 minutes to get there from Dull-stroom while it’s light. Pack your own fishing gear to take advantage of the two fully stocked trout dams near the house.

Self-catering from R1 500 a night for up to six people (R250 a night for each extra person). Tel 083-391-5715, email mike-maree@hotmail.com

Do ThISAsk David Makua, caretaker of Stone Tin Cottage for the past 10 years, to take you on a late-afternoon game drive to the sunset spot above the cottage, and look out for bles- bok, springbok, black wildebeest and reedbuck. R50 a group, maximum four people.

twitchers’ edenMore than 400 bird species have been recorded in Nylsvley Nature Reserve, about 150 kilometres from Pretoria near Mookgophong, making this wetland area one of the top birding spots in Southern Africa. Birdwatching is best between March and May when water levels recede, attracting large numbers of waders and other water birds (it’s worth investing in a pair of gumboots unless you’re happy to squelch around bare-foot). There’s a basic campsite without power, as well as three comfortable self-catering chalets, an old farmhouse and a VIP room. Camping is from R30 a per-son a night and chalets are from R480 a night for a two-sleeper unit. Tel 015-293-3611/2/3, email reservations@ golimpopo.com, www.nylsvley.co.za.

Do ThISThere are lots of hides, but Vogel- fontein Farm’s Dabchick hide is our favourite. You’ll need to get the codes for the locks and take a 15- minute drive around the outside of the reserve to get there. Look out

for yellow-crowned bishops, pied kingfishers, spur-winged geese and squacco herons, along with the resident herd of endangered roan antelope. Also, climb the lookout tower near the reserve entrance for a great view over the floodplain.

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action and adventureKomati Gorge Lodge, near Carolina, is all about freedom and perfect for rock climbers, hikers, mountain bikers, horse riders, and even those who prefer their adventure between the pages of a novel from the comfort of a sofa near the bar. Climbers need to take their own gear, but fishing kit, tubes for floating on the river and bicycles can be hired. The lodge is pet-friendly (call ahead to arrange). We like the cosy and private self-catering Leopard Suites, each of which sleeps two and has a log fireplace and a big bathroom with a sunken bath. For groups, Yellowwood Cottage sleeps up to 10 and has a kitchen, lounge, patio and bar. From R735 a person a night in the Leopard Suites and R3 990 a night for Yellowwood Cottage. Tel 017-843-3920/04, email komatigorge@telkomsa.net, www.komatigorge.co.za.

Do ThISSlip on your takkies, fill your water bottles and hike to the top of the gorge for a bird’s-eye view of the lodge at sunset. You need about 45 minutes to get to the top and remember to carry a torch if you plan to descend after dark.

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Magalies magicIn the northern foothills of the Magaliesberg, the pleasant rooms and tranquil gardens of Sparkling Waters hotel and Spa will ease the terrors of traffic and city life. If that’s not enough, indulge in a hot-stone massage (highly recommended), then tuck into a delicious buffet each evening. B&B is from R560 a person a night (set to go up to R615 in August). Tel 014-535-0000, email info@sparklingwaters.co.za, www.sparklingwaters.co.za.

Do ThISZip between rocks and take in incredible views on a Magaliesberg Canopy Tour (www.magaliescanopytour.co.za), with guides so pro-fessional you’ll never doubt your safety, yet so full of fun and witty remarks your cheeks will ache by lunchtime. However apprehensive you might be at the start, you’ll be sad when they unclip you after the final swing. Costs R450 a person.

wide open spacesSuGGESTIoN FRoM READERS CELIA AND DANIE VAN WyK‘The only thing better than the view over the mountains at Moolmans-hoek Private Game Reserve is the cake and tea they serve on the stoep on a Saturday afternoon. Another highlight was a picnic overlooking a large herd of black wildebeest in the valley below.’

DB&B in the luxurious Sand-stone Lodge costs from R615 a person a night sharing. Activities include abseiling, horse riding, mountain biking and 4x4 trails. Tel 051-933-2220, email info@moolmanshoek.co.za, www. moolmanshoek.co.za.

Birding hotspotAt first glance, Ezemvelo Nature Reserve, near Bronkhorstspruit, doesn’t seem like a birding hotspot. In fact, you’re more likely to see the reserve’s resident zebra, wildebeest and eland than anything feathered. It’s only when you drive slowly and start paying careful attention to every sound that you realise just what’s out there. Ground-dwelling species such as Orange River francolins and white-bellied korhaans are easily overlooked, not to mention tiny cloud cisticolas and well-camouflaged buffy pipits. Keep in mind the gravel road between the R25 and Ezemvelo is badly corrugated and should only be driven with a raised vehicle. The self-catering

huts next to reception are well equipped and located along a small rocky ridge that attracts mocking cliff-chats, lesser honey guides and cardinal woodpeckers, among many others. From R245 a person a night. Tel 013-680-1399, email bookings@ezemvelo.co.za, www.ezemvelo.co.za.

Do ThISDrive from the reception to Rhino house and look for ant-eating chats and coqui francolins along the way (as well as klip-springer on the ridges). Make your way to the picnic site on the Wilge River and continue on foot. Look out for giant, half-collared and African pygmy kingfishers as well as the elusive finfoot.

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hikers’ heavenFew places offer as much hiking variety as Golden Gate highlands National Park, near Clarens in the southeastern Free State. Whether you’re parents with hyperactive toddlers, a group of friends looking for a sundowner spot, or a serious climber training for Kili, there’s a trail for you somewhere in the shadow of Brandwag. If you’re travelling as a group, book the farmhouse at Glen Reenen Rest Camp, located away from the main complex. The only lights you’ll see here at night are stars. From R1 190 a night for the first four people (maximum of six; raised vehicle needed). Tel 012-428-9111, email reservations@sanparks.org, www.sanparks.org.

Do ThIS The gentle, hour-long holkrans Trail, which starts and finishes behind the Brandwag Hotel, is our favourite. The highlight is the Holkrans itself – a gigantic hollow in the side of the cliff face, lined with smaller crevices that seem like portals to another universe.

relaxed retreatSuGGESTIoN FRoM READER ChRIS VoETS‘old Joe’s Kaia in Schoemanskloof has a relaxed, country feel to it. The mountain views, lovely gardens with a ton of bird life for twitchers, excellent food and attentive service make it a very special place for any weekend break, not just as a stopover to Kruger. Look out for blooming aloes in the kloof during winter.’

B&B costs from R555 a person a night sharing. Tel 013-733-3045, email info@oldjoes.co.za, www.oldjoes.co.za.

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a private paradiseEver fancied your own house in the Waterberg bush, minus the maintenance and hassle? Well, that’s what you get at Lindani game farm. Hire one of a few fully equipped private houses and cycle or hike the numerous trails on offer to your heart’s content (there’s no need to panic about bumping into toothy grins while you’re out for a cycle with your kids). Even though it’s located on the edge of the reserve, a little removed from the main cycling trails, we like Skebenga Cottage (sleeps six), complete with swimming pool, outside braai area (and gas braai – just in case it rains). Self-catering is from R420 a person a night. You can order all or some of your food already prepared from a nearby farm kitchen at an extra cost. Tel 083-631-5579 or 083-809-4291, email info@lindani.co.za, www.lindani.co.za.

Do ThISLindani regular Rowan Duvel particularly enjoys mountain biking on the reserve. ‘There are loads of great trails, but my favourite is Rollercoaster Ravine (a three-kilometre trail best ridden downhill). We usually take our own mountain bikes, but you can also rent them at R100 a day.’ (R70 if you pick them up and drop them off afterwards.)

waterfall wonderlandYou’d be forgiven for expecting to see Orlando Bloom in full, pointy-eared, Lord of the Rings regalia step out from behind the trees on a hike through Woodbush Forest Reserve in Magoe-baskloof, near Haenertsburg. It’s a magical place and drinking from fresh water streams and cool-ing off under icy waterfalls are added bonuses in an already unforgettable hiking destination.

Do ThISThe Dokolewa Waterfall Trail overnights at two of the area’s nicest huts: Waterfall Hut and Dokolewa Pools. The challenging 43-kilometre route goes through scenic plantations and indig-enous forest. You have to be completely self-sufficient. From R105 a person a night for up to 16 people. Tel 013-754-2724, email ecotour@klf.co.za, www.komatiecotourism.co.za.

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evolutionary historyWhether you’re interested in evolution or not, a trip to The Cradle of Human-kind, one of South Africa’s eight World Heritage Sites, is a must. Unwind in the comfortable six-sleeper, self-catering house on New horizons farm, about seven kilometres outside Magaliesburg. It’s ideal for families with kids or pets.

The house is surrounded by fruit and pecan-nut trees, as well as a blood red Massey Ferguson tractor and other farm implements for the kids to clamber over. From R375 a person a night. Minimum house charge of R950 a night. Tel 082- 293-3495 or 076-507-5525, email bothauna@gmail.com.

Do ThISSpend a day immersing yourself in evolutionary history at the Maropeng Visitor Centre (www.maropeng.co.za) with an underground boat ride and interactive displays. Then use the next day to explore the nearby Sterkfontein Caves. A combination entrance ticket costs R215 an adult and R130 a child.

voortrekker funEvery now and again, the urge arises to swap your rooftop tent or humdrum hotel room for something new and exciting. Tussen-i-Bome Guest Farm in Dinokeng offers just that – three unique, self-catering camps consisting of authentic ox-wagons dating back to between 1860 and 1935. Each camp is wonderfully designed, with a cosy braai area, a large kettle and, best of all, a barrel bath. From R300 a person a night. Tel 082-511-1169, email info@tussenibome.co.za, www.tuss-enibome.co.za.

Do ThISTake the necessary ingredients and bake bread in the camp’s bak-oond, a traditional clay oven used by Voortrekkers in the mid-1800s.

Curious delightSuGGESTIoN FRoM READER ChENE SWART‘Whenever I’m seeking imagination and laugh-ter, I go to Jan harmsgat se Agterplaas, in Cullinan, where Jan Harm Vorster’s junk-art designs open my mind and inspire me. With a garden full of surprises and attention to the finest detail, the guest house will transport you to another world.’

B&B from R700 a room a night. Tel 074-322-5225 or 082-255-2465, email info@gaste-hys.co.za, www. janharmsgat.co.za.

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ideal family breakRemember summer holidays as a kid when time was measured by how often you’d been in and out of the pool? Forever Resorts Badplaas is all of that free-dom. Kids are kept entertained with all sorts from mini-golf and paintball games to a go-cart track and super tubes. There’s also plenty for mom, dad and the grandparents, including tennis courts, restaurants and fishing. Tel 017-844-8000, email badplaas@fore-versa.co.za, www.foreverbadplaas.co.za.

Do ThISPark off in the hydro Spa for the day. With hot and cold pools and a range of spa treatments (from full-body mud wraps to pedicures), you’re bound to leave glowing.

STAy hEREAlthough the Badplaas hotel recently underwent an impressive makeover, resulting in modern, com-fortable rooms (from R925 a double room a night), we suggest you book self-catering chalets LTC 64 to 69 (from R725 a two-sleeper unit a night) with unobstructed views of the game reserve. If you’re a camper, arrive as early as possible and try to get a spot on stands 112 to 148 on Campsite A, which are furthest from the entertainment area, but have the best views. Camping is from R80 a stand a night plus R51 a person a night up to a maximum of six.

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Bush resortMabalingwe Nature Reserve, near Bela-Bela, consists of 12 500 hectares of malaria-free bushveld and has all the features of a good family resort. Reader John Miles says, ‘If the traffic plays along, you could leave the city after work on the Friday afternoon and reach Mabalingwe with enough time to pitch your tent and still enjoy the sunset. There’s a good network of game-viewing roads within the reserve, most of which you can drive with a Citi Golf.’ Tel 014-736- 9000, email info@mabalingwe.co.za, www.mabalingwe.co.za.

Do ThISHand-raised lion cubs are available for petting at R30 a session between 10h00 and 12h00 at the farm shop, and 14h00 and 15h00 at the caravan park.

STAy hEREThere’s a large caravan park with 67 shady stands and an assortment of self-catering options. For groups of up to 10, we recommend renting Sekelbosgat or Rooiboklaagte lodges – they’re very private, each with four en-suite rooms, a fully kitted kitchen, outdoor braai area and pool. Camping is from R180 a stand a night plus R90 a person a day and the 10- sleeper Rooiboklaagte house is from R3 500 a night.

Do ThISBe superman for a few minutes and fly at speeds of up to 120 kilometres an hour down the unreal zip slide (www.zip2000.co.za), or get up close and personal with the largest land mammals at Pilanes-berg Elephant-Back Safaris (www.pilanesbergelephantback.co.za). End the day at The Shebeen (tel 014-557-1580) surrounded by people dancing, playing foosball and simply having a great time.

firm favouriteYou only have to glance at the staggering list of attractions in and around Sun City (near Rustenburg) to understand why so many Europeans migrate south for the winter to stay at the resort’s hotels. If you pop in for the week-end, you’ll have to narrow down your to-do list.

STAy hEREBook a luxury chalet at Kwena Gardens, which includes breakfast, as well as access to the crocodile sanctuary, the main resort and the Valley of the Waves. It’s substantially more affordable than some of the other options. Costs from R1 550 a two-sleeper chalet a night. Tel 014-552-1262, www.kwenachalets.co.za.

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EAT hERETry the savoury bobotie pancakes at harrie’s Pancakes (tel 013-254-0801) for lunch, then take a breather and order the banana and caramel one for dessert. The Clock Shop (tel 013-254-0022) next door, with more than 4 000 timepieces on display, is worth a visit between helpings. If you’re looking for a place with a family-sized menu – and portion sizes to match – dine at Mayfly Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge (tel 013-254-0332) just up the road from Harrie’s Pancakes.

dullstroomTake the relaxed charm of the Scottish Highlands, add a big dollop of South African hospitality and you have the essence of what makes Dullstroom so special. It’s a comfortable, cosy, neat little town about 2,5 hours northeast of Johannesburg and is full of curious shops and restaurants overflowing with home-made, arty, delicious and downright quirky delights. www.dullstroom.co.za

ClarensClarens has boomed and become bus-ier in recent years, but art collectors, coffee connoisseurs, beer fanatics and cultural fundis still leave rejuvenated after a weekend in the enchanting town. It’s one of the most picturesque towns in the Free State, with old sand-stone buildings on either side of dis-tinctive poplar groves, all enveloped by the splendidly scenic Maloti Mountains. www.clarens.co.za.

STAy hERELake Clarens Guest house comes recommended by Getaway reader Genie Eloff, who frequently visits Clarens and says it’s great because it’s so close to the town centre. ‘It’s the ideal place to stay, the breakfasts are scrumptious and the friendly owner, Bruce Weyer, is always willing to give advice to anyone wishing to explore.’ B&B costs from R550 a person a night sharing. Tel 058-256-1436, email weyer@intelkom.co.za, www.lakeclarensgh.co.za.

Do ThISTake a stroll around the village square and pop into the great selection of craft shops and art galleries. End the day with one of Clarens Brewery’s (tel 082-901-4700) local beers.

EAT hEREWhen your stomach starts rumbling, head to The Street Café (tel 058-256-1561) for pizza or tuck into robust Ger-man fare at Roter hahn Beef Stube (tel 058-256-1888), which has a lovely view over the surrounding mountains.

sPend the weekend exPloring a town

STAy hERE The architecture of Cherry Grove, nicely set on the edge of town, brings to mind images of Tuscany with self-catering rooms overlooking a cobbled piazza surrounded by small galleries, craft shops, the Green olive Café, and the vibey local pub The Duck and Trout. Costs from R495 a person a night sharing. Tel 013-254-0421, email cherrygrove@duckandtrout.co.za, www.cherry-grove.co.za.

Do ThIS Visit the Birds of Prey and Rehabili-tation Centre (www.birdsofprey.co.za) one kilometre out of town on the road to Belfast, and get to know owner Mark Holder’s feathered family, which include Landy the spotted eagle-owl (because she leaks) and Sam the enormous Verreaux’s eagle. Bring along some extra cash for Colin the pied crow and watch as he places them in the sanctuary’s donations bowl. Shows take place twice daily.

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something for everyoneSuGGESTIoN FRoM READERS SERVAAS AND LIESE VERSTER ‘There are a ton of things to do in Parys. The guys can play golf on one of two courses (Parys Golf and Country Estate or Vaal de Gráce) while the ladies browse the EnStyle design showroom. Later, everyone can go river rafting.’

Parys Tourism, tel 056-881-4000, www.parys.info.

hartbeespoort About an hour’s drive north of Johannesburg, Harties is a big town – big enough that we wouldn’t try walking it – that has somehow remained quaint. Take the cable car (www.hartiescableway.co.za) for a bird’s-eye view of the town and dam, try out local and lekker produce at Jasmyn farm stall, and park off at Cupz Café (tel 082- 773-5272), a garden café and crafts boutique with a kids’ play area that’ll make you wish you were six again and flavoured cappuccinos that’ll make you glad you aren’t. www.myhartbeespoort.co.za.

STAy hERE Villa Paradiso’s Victorian exterior coupled with its lofty location overlooking the town and dam may make you feel as if you need a fully loaded credit card to stay, but it’s surprisingly affordable and comfy. B&B from R400 a person a night sharing. Tel 012-253-1848/7, email villaparadiso@mweb.co.za, www.villaparadiso.co.za.

EAT hEREVisit Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij (www.vangaalen.co.za) on the edge of town, get a basket of delicious cheeses, breads, crackers, pickles and fruit, and pick a shady picnic spot along the river. Costs R380 a basket, excluding wine (place orders at least 24 hours ahead).

Do ThISJasmyn Plaasprodukte farm stall (tel 012-259-1183) is like a large, well-organ-ised, indoor farmer’s market. Farmers from the district keep it topped up with fresh, dried, pickled and sugared fruits, nuts and veggies; meat and fish of just about every variety; and home-baked goodies to break any diet. Pack the big coolerbox.

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The best thing about being in front is the view.Introducing the Mercedes-Benz GL, the SUV with the most innovative safety features in its class.

With the ability to traverse any terrain you encounter and technological innovations such as Crosswind Stabilisation, 360° camera view, Side Impact Protection and BAS, the new Mercedes-Benz GL is unmistakably the perfect drive for you and your loved ones. For more information, go to www.mercedes-benz.co.za/gl-classVehicle specifications may vary for the South African market.