Magoebaskloof – good for the soul
This weekend I decided to explore another small-town option, with big air feels: Limpopo province’s Magoebaskloof. I set off on a Sunday morning (working for yourself has some benefits) and took the N1 until it became called, rather excitingly, the Great North Road.
The drive is easy, on this huge highway that stretches between Zimbabwe’s border and Cape Town. Tolls do add up, so be aware of their cost, but in general time flew by as my little car ate up the kilometers and I sang badly to old rock songs.
Around Polokwane the route deviates from the N1, and it passes the fascinating Zion Church’s Moria spiritual base. I had a very interesting chat with a local waiter about the church’s origins, and how it has grown to a membership of almost ten million across the country. In this area you’ll see plenty of roadside vendors with Coke bottles filled with a milk substance, and bunches of a gorse-like shrub. I found out that these are all to do with a cleansing ceremony that the church espouses. Learning about the area I’m traveling through adds so much to the experience!
You start to notice the climbing as you head through these hills, and suddenly around Kromdraai you can see the yawning valleys below you – green slopes, flower farms, blue gum plantations… it’s all about wide open spaces and a feeling of space around here. The road passes into a forest reserve area, and then you wind your way down to the little village of Haenertsburg, on onwards to Magoebaskloof.
There are several accommodation options in the area. I stayed at the beautiful Bramasole Guest House, which is one of the most spectacularly striking properties I’ve ever seen. An old angora rabbit warehouse converted into an industrial chic guesthouse, set on the shores of a tranquil dam lined with soaring eucalyptus trees – I mean come on, could it be prettier! Each of the units has a small kitchenette, making this a perfect base from which to explore the area at a leisurely pace.
Bramasole is a mid-priced option and has a four-star rating. It is excellent value for money, especially the free-standing cottages which offer privacy and tranquility on the far side of the dam from the main building. They offer lots of the small touches that I love in an owner-run property, like wheat bags to microwave and keep your toes warm. I’ll be back for sure!
There is also the charming Magoebaskloof Hotel, with 63 rooms. It has the feel of an old country resort, and probably the best view in the area – it definitely worth stopping in for a drink on the deck to enjoy the views! They offer incredible value for money, with self-catering apartment rooms for 5 people, deluxe garden rooms, and standard rooms. The hotel pool and deck chairs look like they would be the best place to recover after a long day exploring this stunning area. Plus they have excited new management who have great ideas on modernising the hotel and property!
Although I spent only two nights in Magoebaskloof with a half day of exploring, I loved it and would plan to spend at least five days next time! There are plentiful hiking and mountain biking trails, blueberry farms, trout fishing dams, and even an award-winning local brewery.
Definitely a fantastic option from Joburg – would love to help you plan the perfect local stay in Magoebaskloof!