This week on our My Joburg: The City Through The Eyes of a Local series, we'll be chatting to hiking enthusiast, Tanya Pembroke. Keep reading to find out about Tanya, her adventures and travels, her favourite spots and experiences in Joburg, and where to get the best food and coffee in the city.
About Tanya Pembroke
Known for sharing her adventures trekking some of the most beautiful trails in Gauteng, Tanya Pembroke is a nature and hiking enthusiast, who captures her journeys on both her Facebook account – My Hiking Logbook - Gauteng – and on Instagram at @tanyapembroke.
Describe your ultimate night out?
My ultimate night out would involve watching the sunset/sunrise and camping under the stars at De Wildt Adventure Trails near Hartbeespoort. Nothing beats sitting around a camp fire and swapping stories with amazing like-minded people.
Where can we find the best cup of coffee?
When it comes to restaurants I'm still undecided. But nothing beats a cup of Protea Cafe pour over coffee while out on the trails. And they're a local brand too, which is always a win.
Favourite spot for a date night?
Sadly I'm currently single (just throwing that out there. Lol) But one of my favourite restaurants is Fireroom at Montecasino. Their food is absolutely to die for, and dining there is an experience all on it's own. They cook and set your steaks alight right beside your table. They even set fire to some of the sushi orders.
Your favourite adrenaline packed activity is?
Well, hiking is definitely top of my list. But one of my favourite local adrenaline packed adventures was at the Soweto Towers. I did the bungee jump and SKAD free fall within the towers. It was such an incredible experience, and so much fun.
Where is a must visit place for a first-timer?
Some beautiful urban hikes that I'd recommend for beginner hikers would be Kloofendal Nature Reserve in Roodepoort, Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens in Ruimsig, Thaba Trails in Mulbarton, and The Wilds in Houghton.
Do you have any weekend traditions?
Well hiking of course. I try to visit a new trail every week or second week. Go give my Facebook page – My Hiking Logbook - Gauteng – a follow for ideas on different hiking trails to explore around the province.
The perfect place for a girls night is?
I know this isn't everyone's vibe, but it's mine and my friends. Quiz nights every Wednesday night at the Irish Rock in Radiokop are an absolute blast. I've been frequenting this pub and their quiz nights for over 8 years now. Highly recommend if you're looking for a fun, yet chilled night out.
