Need a relaxing getaway that's within driving distance from Joburg? We thought we'd go in search of some exciting, elegant and adventurous destinations around Gauteng. Whether you're looking for something in the wilderness or not too far from the city, keep reading.
Irene Country Hotel and Farm
Driving time: ~45 minutes
If you’re after a quick countryside escape near Joburg, Irene Country Hotel’s Easter weekend special is an easy win. With weekend stays from R2295 per room per night, it’s a laid-back getaway set among lakes, gardens and walking paths, just minutes from the city.
Over the Easter weekend, the experience expands with family-friendly activities at Irene Farm, an Easter Sunday lunch buffet with hearty favourites and desserts, and the option to unwind at Camdeboo Day Spa. It’s a simple mix of outdoor time, good food and proper relaxation, all in one easy escape.
Roratau Bush Camp - Welgedacht
Driving time: an hour and 30 minutes
Roratau Bush Camp can be found in the beautiful and tranquil Leeuwgedacht Conservancy, bordering Dinokeng Game Reserve. Bring your own camping equipment or stay in one of their fully furnished tents. And because they pride themselves on a peaceful and quiet camping environment, they have a no under-12 child policy.
You’ll be surrounded by the incredible nighttime sounds of lions, hyenas, jackals, owls and more. The camp is home to a variety of animals that are free to wander the campsites. If you’re lucky, you can encounter Kudu, Red Hartebeest, Blue Wildebeest, Blesbuck, Zebra, Giraffes, and Warthogs.
Details: rorataubushcamp.co.za | [email protected] | 084 603 9289 or 083 267 2145 | Facebook
B’sorah Luxury Tented Camp - Magaliesburg
Driving time: 50 minutes to an hour
There is nothing more relaxing than escaping the city and unwinding to the sounds of the bushveld. And if you're looking to camp out in the wilderness, but in style and luxury, then be sure to book your escape with B’sorah Luxury Tented Camp in Broederstroom in the Magaliesberg.
Not only is it close to home, but it's a wonderful way to experience the wildlife – from luxurious glamping accommodation. Enjoy the breathtaking views, scenic trails, as well as adventure activities nearby the family-run farm. You can book a self-catering luxury tent from R1 400 per unit per night (sleeps two).
Details: www.bsorah.com | [email protected] | 071 529 6153 | Facebook | Twitter
Rustig - Hekpoort
Driving time: an hour and 30 minutes
If you love hiking and the tranquillity of nature, then you'll definitely love Rustig, out in Magaliesburg! Book yourself into one of their accommodation options – the three-bedroom Heritage House, the five-bedroom Farmhouse, the six-bedroom Backpackers House, the two-bedroom Stone House, or either one of the four or six sleeper tents – and enjoy a relaxing weekend away with family and friends.
As for entertainment, Rustig offers amazing hiking trails to suit all experience and fitness levels, as well as safe off-road running and biking trails. Unwind on one of the recliners next to their sparkling pool and even take a leisurely stroll through their beautiful gardens.
Details: www.rustig.co.za | [email protected] | 079 490 2690 | Facebook | Twitter
African Pride Irene Country Lodge
Driving time: 40 minutes
For a country escape that's not too far from home, book a well-deserved weekend away at the stunning African Pride Irene Country Lodge in Irene, Pretoria.
Expect plenty of relaxing and fun activities, including visiting the Irene Farm where you can see their resident cows being milked from about 15:00 daily; indulging in a treatment at the award-winning Camdeboo Spa; or dining at the Meadow Green Restaurant. They also offer a variety of accommodation offers ranging from Bestie Getaways and romantic escapes to something perfect for the entire family.
Details: irenecountrylodge.co.za | [email protected] | 012 667 6464 | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Mongena Private Game Lodge
Driving time: one hour and 30 minutes
Situated in the Big 5 Dinokeng Game Reserve, 35km away from Pretoria, the Mongena Private Game Lodge offers getaway seekers a tranquil setting to relax and experience the wilderness.
The lodge offers 24 air-conditioned en suite rooms situated in stunning indigenous landscaped gardens or enjoy the ultimate exclusive bush experience at their Tandala Trails Camp. Other than utter and complete relaxation in the middle of the bushveld, the lodge also offers guided safaris and bush walks, early morning and late afternoon cruises aboard a luxury boat, as well as divine dining at the Kingfisher Restaurant.
Details: www.mongena.co.za | [email protected] | 012 711 8920 | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Glenburn Lodge & Spa - Muldersdrift
Driving time: 45 minutes
If you are looking for an escape that's not too far but not too close, then why not gather the family, take a road trip to the Zwartkops Mountains and enjoy a relaxing weekend away at the Glenburn Lodge & Spa?
Reconnect with the great outdoors while taking in the sites and sounds on the various nature walks and mountain hiking trails hikes onsite. Or even visit a few interesting local spots in the area including the Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, Silverstar Casino, the Sterkfontein Caves, and Danielsrust Game Farm (offering horse trail rides, quad biking, paintball, archery and clay pigeon shooting).
Details: guvonhotels.co.za | [email protected] | 08611 48866 | Facebook | Instagram
Katrinasrust - Machadodorp
Driving Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Located in the beautiful province of Mpumalanga, this Trout Farm has been in the family for over 70 years. The vision of the accommodation is to transport guests to a relaxing and enchanting space while giving guests the opportunity to explore the natural beauty that's right on their doorstep!
They have three cottages to choose from namely; Nightjar, Wisteria and The Oaks and each of them has something unique to offer its guests. So, what can you do at the estate? You can do some Trout Fishing in the farm, Mountain Biking on the trails and have a picnic or hike!
Details: katrinasrust.com | [email protected] | 074 152 7527 | Facebook | Instagram
26 Degrees South - Muldersdrift
Driving Time: 1 hour
A stone's throw away from Johannesburg, 26 Degrees South is an Afri-Chic Bush Hotel with vibrant décor and a whole lot of personality! It's a beautiful place to escape from the busy Joburg roads and boasts a stunning backdrop of the Magaliesberg Mountain Range.
The hotel is a 30-minute drive from popular sights such as The Cradle of Humankind, The Lion Nature Reserve and Sterkfontein Caves. They have plenty of onsite activities from Fishing to Game Viewing, Bird Watching, Mountain Biking, Quad Biking and more. Please note that there is a 3.5km gravel road from the main road and a R50 conservancy levy will be charged for each visitor.
Details: 26dsouth.co.za | [email protected] | 010 110 0802 | Facebook
Nehema Manor - Hartebeespoort
Driving Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Looking for a romantic getaway or a girls' weekend? Well, look no further! Nehema Manor is a beautiful and tranquil getaway spot in close proximity to the Hartebeespoort Dam.
The self-catering accommodation is located near Harties activities such as the Aerial Cable Way! They have beautiful lawns for picnics and have onsite spa facilities for you to take advantage of! The true gem of the Manor is their Treehouse accommodation. The Treehouse has a patio that allows you to look at Bush Veld treetops and is also home to a rustic outdoor shower!
Details: nehema.co.za | [email protected] | 079 859 6530 | Facebook
Farm Stays at Rosemary Hill - Pretoria
Driving Time: 50 minutes
Experience farm living just a short drive away from the City of Gold. The plot has a coffee shop, trails and of course, superb accommodation options for up to 100 guests. It also makes for a great wedding venue and is home to an essential oil distillation plant and formal gardens.
Whether you're booking the accommodation as a wedding guest, for a romantic breakaway or work vacation the converted farm buildings are a comfortable and cosy accommodation choice. Segway Tours, Picnics, Horse Riding and Mountain Biking Trails are just some of the experiences you can enjoy with your stay!
Details: rosemaryhill.co.za | [email protected] | 012 802 0052 | Facebook
