Why look for weekend getaways in the Magaliesberg? The Magaliesberg dwarf even the history of the Cradle Of Humankind a very different experience. The range is the remains of a fossilized shoreline that dates back some million years, before there was even enough oxygen for humans to breathe. Inspecting within this radius it soon became clear that the area in and around Hekpoort, particularly those within the Hartebeestfontein Conservancy , is where most gems are found.
Others were within earshot of busy roads, or just too far. Steynshoop Mountain Lodge. This is a great place for nature lovers, plus the service is excellent.
A converted thatched house with nine rooms, Steynshoop Mountain Lodge is located within the Magaliesberg Protected Area, and is worth every bump along the dirt track to get there. Intimate and unpretentious, with farm-style antiques, and every sofa, table and bed dressed in white β thank heavens for people like Peter Curle who invest so much in creating classy hospitality products that remain affordable to South Africans.
A small but excellent wine list; a metre pool; huge views, and real proximity to nature β barking baboon, yipping jackals, and regular visits from nyala, warthogs and monkeys β all make for a restorative weekend. Room tip: The four upstairs rooms: 5, 7, 8 or 9. Room 6 is also lovely but has a tiny bathroom. Room 9 is the best standard; room 7 the best luxury. Contact: steynshoop. What a well-chosen name for this lush farm deep within the Hartebeestfontein Conservancy.
The multiple-generation family is clearly as successful at gardening as they are at farming: towering trees and flowering shrubs punctuate the rolling lawns overlooked by a sprawling restaurant and veranda. There is an inviting metre pool and, given the luxury of the grounds and facilities, the amiable service and great location, Rustig is surely the best bargain in the berg.
