A Little Background

We will give you a little bit of a disclaimer: when travelling to this beautiful spot in Hekpoort, PLEASE make sure you take a bakkie or a car that's not low suspension or low on ground clearance, as the dirt road to the property is exceptionally rocky, bumpy and treacherous (trust us, this is from our own personal experience!) But once you get there, it's all worth it.

Rustig is a beautiful, well-established family farm that's run by the Oosthuizen family. This plot was a tobacco farm way back in the 1930s and now specialises in cattle and game, and of course, providing us city slickers with an idyllic country escape from the city. This location offers accommodation, amazing hiking trails, an upmarket wedding venue overlooking the lush gardens, and just a serene place to getaway from everyday life and just unwind.

Want To Stay A Weekend?

Now, if you're looking to stay the weekend to chill out and reconnect with Mother Nature, there are many accommodation options available - the Heritage House, the Farmhouse, the Stone House, the four-sleeper tent, the six-sleeper tent or the Backpackers. Each one has it's own unique charm, feel and budget. We stayed in the lovely Farmhouse which can sleep 10 people in its five spacious rooms. Another thing we really loved about this Farmhouse was its LARGE kitchen with heated floors (the weekend we chose to getaway on was FREEZING!) and the big veranda complete with comfy couches and braai area. But as for the other options, here's a few details:

Heritage House

The Heritage House features a Victorian-style bathroom, a rustic farm-style kitchen ( equipped with a fridge, microwave, kettle, and limited cutlery and crockery, however no stove or oven). There's a beautiful formal lounge that opens onto a veranda which overlooks the formal rose garden.

• Three bedrooms and can accommodate six people
• Two bedrooms feature double beds while the one features two single beds
• Includes breakfast
• R1 000 per room per night
• Entire House – R2 500 per night

The Stone House

The Stone House is rustic and is one of the oldest buildings on the farm. It sleeps 4 in its 2 bedrooms. The main bedroom features a double bed while the second room a bunk bed. There is a small kitchenette and access to the ablution block is only a 5-7 meters away

• Two bedrooms and can accommodate four people
• One room with a double bed
• One room with 1 bunk bed
• No towels included
• R220 per person per night
• R100 per child (under 10 years old) per night. Children under 2 years stay for free.

Backpackers

The name of this one says it all - it's a backpacker spot. It's literally just a place to sleep for the night. There is a communal kitchenette and easy access to the nearby ablution block. This venue also features a big braai area, a pack of braai wood, camping chairs and three bunk beds per room.

• Six rooms, that each sleeps six people
• R170 per person per night (bedding excluded).
• R200 per person per night (bedding included).
• R120 per child (under 10 years old) per night. (Children under 2 years stay for free.)
• R250 per person per night in rooms with 4 or less people

The Tents

As for the tents, you can take your pick from the four- and six-sleeper on the property. They're both charming and are completely self-contained and self-catering, each with it’s own en-suite bathroom.

• Four-sleeper -R1 200 per unit per night
• Six-sleeper - R1 500 per unit per night
• Full Kitchen
• Cutlery and Crockery included
• En Suite Bathroom with shower
• 1 Pack of Braai Wood
• Braai and camping chairs supplied for each unit
• Bunk Beds
• Towels and bedding included
• Four-sleeper - Two single beds (request to be pushed together if desired)
• Six-sleeper - One double bed

There's Activities To Get You Active!

There best part about being at Rustig is exploring the property, and what better way to do this than by doing a hiking, going on a game drive or testing out the off road biking trails (just remember to BYOB - bring your own bike!).

Since we didn't have bikes, we decided to try out one of the hiking trails on the farm. There are three trails varying in difficulty available for farm guests and day visitors:

Olivenhout Hiking Trail – 3km - The Yellow Trail

• R65 per person and R30 per child under 10 years old
• Average hiking time for this trail is one hour
• More of a flat terrain, easy route
• Hiking must commence by 12:00.

Witstinkhout Hiking Trail – 5km - The Red Trail

• R65 per person and R30 per child under 10 years old
• Average Hiking Time for this trail is three hours
• Medium difficulty, climbing over ladders, sloping trail
• Hiking must commence by 11:00

Karee Hiking Trail – 13km - The Green Trail

• R75 per person
• NO Children under the age of 12
• Average Hiking Time for this trail is 5-6 hours
• High difficulty, steep trail, climbing
• Hiking must commence by 09:00

The Witstinkhout Hiking Trail was lovely, offering amazing views of the property and the Magaliesberg Mountains. Once we got to the "top" of the trail, there was a massive and oh-so beautiful "cave" (for a lack of a better word). We took a long rest there before descending back down to the Farmhouse. Just don't forget to take a cap, sunscreen, comfortable hiking shoes and a couple of litres of water with you.

There's a 13km overnight hiking trail for those brave and adventurous at heart. It's perfect if you're interested in an off-the-grid experience. There's no hot water and no electricity. Only what you've packed in your rucksack and the equipment you bring. Click here for more information about this.

They also offer game drives twice a day, the morning game drive at 08:00 and the afternoon game drive is at 16:30. Cost is R150 per person and R75 per child under the age of 12, but just keep in mind that NO children under the age of 10 are allowed on the drive. To find out more about availability, visit reception or give them a call.

The Venue Is Perfect For Weddings And Functions

Rustig is Gauteng’s best kept secret when it comes to the perfect countryside wedding venue. They have everything you need to pull off the wedding of your dreams without a hitch. The location offers magnificent views, a five-star wedding hall with an expansive veranda overlooking a beautiful terrace garden as well as fine dining catering on offer. Rustig provides couples with affordable sophistication in the countryside. The idyllic grounds are perfect for beautiful photos. There are wonderful packages available to make your experience as easy and enjoyable as possible. Weddings at Rustig offers:

• Garden wedding ceremonies in the formal garden
• Capacity for 150 guests
• Accommodation for 74 people
• Elegant wedding hall
• Children’s play room in the wedding hall venue
• Custom menus
• Magnificent views
• Beautiful gardens
• Ample, secure parking
• Tailor-made wedding packages

Rustig is also ideal for conferences, corporate functions and team builds. The hall transforms into an ideal work environment including cinema style seating and conference equipment. You can arrange any function imaginable, including:

Corporate:

• Year-end functions
• Launches
• Conferences
• Family Days
• Team Building

Private Functions: 

• Bridal Showers
• Bachelors
• Stork Teas
• Birthday parties
• Christenings
• Anniversaries
• Celebrations

For More Information

For more information about this stunning countryside escape, visit their website at www.rustig.co.za.

You can contact them on 079 490 2690 or [email protected].

Don't forget to give them a follow on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news, updates, reviews and more.

From interesting hotels and backpacker hot spots to AirBnB experiences, Maboneng is sure to have the perfect accommodation option to suit your taste, style, needs and pocket. Here's where to stay when you visit the City of Gold, but more specifically, the suburb of Maboneng.

What Are You Looking For?

Hotels
Backpackers
AirBnB

Hotels

12 Decades Johannesburg Art Hotel

This design hotel offers rooms decorated by some of South Africa's most famous artists and designers. Ellis Park Station and the BRT Station are within 800 m. Rooms at 12 Decades Johannesburg Art Hotel each feature a unique decade-related theme. In-room amenities include a kitchenette, seating area with TV, and a private bathroom. Guests of the 12 Decades Art Hotel can take part in activities such as inner-city walking tours, Soweto township tours, and public art walks, bicycle rental is also available.

Visit 12 Decades.

Hallmark House Hotel

Hallmark House Hotel has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and a shared lounge in Johannesburg. Around 1.8 km from Johannesburg Stadium, the property is also 8 km away from Apartheid Museum and offers free WiFi. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, room service, and luggage storage for guests.

Visit the Hallmark House Hotel.

Backpackers

Curiocity Backpackers

Offering accommodation in Johannesburg, Curiocity Backpackers Johannesburg has a splash pool, BBQ facilities and a bar. The property offers bicycles for guests to rent. There is also a games room and free parking for guests. Guests can prepare their own meals in the shared kitchen which is fully equipped with an oven and fridge. CURIOCITY Backpackers Johannesburg offers a range of activities including city walking tours, township tours in Soweto, and public art walks.

Visit Curiocity Backpackers.

AirBnB

Nothing beats the comfort of home, so why not book yourself into an AirBnB rental in Maboneng for the duration of your stay? Not only does this offer you the privacy of your own home, but allows you to save extra cash for excursions around the city. It's the perfect choice for holidaymakers who like to cook while on their travels or who simply prefer a touch of homeliness in their accommodations.

Explore AirBnB In Maboneng.

Welcome to Maboneng, one of the hippest hangouts in the inner city. On weekends, it filled to the brim with tourists and locals alike. The streets overflow with vendors selling everything from authentic artworks to super cool shades and everything in between. When the sun goes down, the rooftop bars fill up with cool kids who like to dance and have a good time. In between all of this excitement, you will find authentic African restaurants that cover everything from West to East Africa. Maboneng is also home to a handful of art galleries and an independent movie theatre. Recently rated among 12 coolest neighborhoods in the world by Forbes Magazine. Maboneng precinct is a collaborative hub of culture, business and lifestyle that entices curiosity, encourages exploration, promotes a sense of urban togetherness and provides a creative take on history, architecture, art and nature.

What Are You Looking?

Shopping
Restaurants
Entertainment
Hotels & Accommodation
Market On Main
Property

Shopping

Arts and crafts. That's the name of the game when it comes to shopping in Maboneng. Sure, there are clothing stores that stock indie designers, but it all comes down to the same thing: handmade, artisan type stuff and Maboneng is full of it! Take a look at all the exciting, unique and interesting retail spaces in this vibrant and up-and-coming inner-city suburb. Maboneng is home to the legendary David Krut Bookstore, the community art project I Was Shot In Joburg (which sells AMAZING photo prints taken by street kids), and, of course, Market On Main (which we've dedicated an entire section to on this page). What makes Maboneng a unique place to shop is the street vendors.

Explore Shopping In Maboneng.

Restaurants

One can't simply visit the City Of Gold and not sample some of its cuisines! Laced with restaurants and cafés exploring both local and international cuisine, you are sure to find many restaurants that live up to your palate's expectations. From award-winning curries to pizza and popcorn, Maboneng is a foodie's dream come true. Thanks to the number of hotels and hostels in the neighbourhood, the food services in Maboneng marches to the beat of a very funky drum.

Explore Restaurants In Maboneng.

Entertainment In Maboneng

Known as 'the other' city that never sleeps, Jozi has got a nightlife so unique that you can't replicate it anywhere else on earth. Maboneng is filled to brim with rooftop bars and night clubs for visitors and residents in the area to explore and enjoy. Whether you're looking for laid back live music and lekker drinks or an all-nighter next to a big sparkling pool, Maboneng has the entertainment you're craving.

Explore Entertainment In Maboneng.

Hotels & Accomodation

With its ample amount of hotels, hostels, and even AirBnB offerings, Maboneng is the place to lay your head when you're all partied out. From the world-famous Zebra Inn to the legendary Main Street Life, there's a place with a warm bed and a hot shower around almost every corner in this area. Check out Maboneng's accommodation offerings and book your stay soon!

Explore Hotels And Accommodation In Maboneng.

The Maboneng Market On Main

Launched in January 2011, Market on Main has established itself as Johannesburg’s leading urban food and design market. Market on Main was started by design entrepreneurs Jacques van der Watt of fashion label Black Coffee and Bradley Kirshenbaum of Love Jozi – with the vision to give top food and design entrepreneurs a beautiful space to trade weekly. Our goal is to encourage inner-city lifestyle and provide a relaxed and creative space for makers to trade, and for locals and visitors to spend their weekend leisure time.

Explore The Maboneng Market On Main.

Property In Maboneng

Filled to the brim with young, hip and creative people, this area is where the up-and-coming starter-uppers choose to reside. Thanks to the number of cafes and restaurants that offer free Wi-Fi, the streets are your office. Whether you're looking to rent a studio apartment built out of old shipping containers or looking for a loft with a view, there's something sure to suit your needs. Maboneng encourages the artistic and entrepreneurial spirit, has reasonably priced apartments– priced from around R500,000 – and offers residents an alternative to suburban living.

Explore Property In Maboneng.

Braamfontein offers a range of unique lodgings for student backpackers, tourists and party seekers looking for a place to lay their head for a night. If you'd rather save your cash to go on epic adventures around the city than spend it on a hotel room, book yourself into a Braam hostel or AirBnB rental. You still get all the comfort of a luxury resort without having to fork out all your savings. Plus you're sure to meet some truly fascinating people along the way. What more could you ask for?

What Are You Looking For?

Hotels
Hostels and Lodges
AirBnB

Hotels 

Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Parktonian All-Suite

The Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Parktonian All-Suite is Braamfontein's only luxury hotel. With over 300 spacious, well-equipped rooms, five conference rooms and a rooftop swimming pool, this is the ideal accommodation for business travelers and tourists. Each room features a separate lounge, bedroom, bathroom, service area, work desk and balcony, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi. It's all the refinement you'd expect of a Sandton hotel just a stone's throw away from Braam's best nightclubs, restaurants and galleries.

Visit the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Parktonian All-Suite.

The Devonshire Hotel 

If you're the type to seek out historical landmarks, then the Devonshire Hotel on Jorissen street is perfect for you. This 3-star hotel has been in operation since 1930! However, this does not mean that the service here isn't modern and fully accommodating to your 21st Century needs. Each room is equipped with free WIFI, a flat screen television and coffee machine for your convenience. That being said, once you step out of your room you can travel back in time at the hotel's piano bar and lounge. It's the best of old and new all rolled into one neat package.

Visit the Devonshire Hotel.

Bannister Hotel

The Bannister Hotel is unlike any other inn you might find in Johannesburg. This is where the "cool kids" book their stays. Its bohemian atmosphere attracts a range of travelers, including business people and artists. And while its not your typical luxury hotel, the Bannister has something most lodges don't - character and style. Enjoy a casual drink at the bar, before heading up to your room where you can look out onto the sprawling city lights from your window. Oh, and don't forget to try their famous French toast in the morning. It's simply divine.

Visit the Bannister Hotel.

Hostels and Lodges

Once In Joburg

Once In Joburg is known as Braamfontein's only official "poshtel" - a posh hostel, ideal for student backpackers and avid explorers on a budget. You can book a private room to share with your travel buddies or bunk in a dormitory style room. There are also lots of fun activities to take part in, including bicycle tours around Braam, cuisine tasting experiences and much more. If you're looking to go sightseeing in Braamfontein and other popular Joburg cities, this is the accommodation for you.

Visit Once In Joburg.

AirBnB

Looking for a home away from home while staying over in Braam? Look no further than an affordable AirBnB rental. This type of accommodation offers you all the comforts of home, without breaking the bank. Plus you get to experience what it's really like to live right in the heart of the city. Take your rest in a trendy Braamfontein loft apartment overlooking the dazzling city below. It's the perfect way to escape and enjoy your travels.

Find AirBnB rentals in Braamfontein.

Braamfontein is the oldest recognised suburb of the city of Johannesburg. Following the gold rush of the 1850s, Braamfontein became a central hub for business, sport and leisure. With the establishment of the South African School of Mining in 1895 (later to become the University of the Witwatersrand), Braamfontein cemented its status as a bustling inner city suburb. Today, "Braam" as it is affectionately known, is one of the city's top destinations for entertainment, retail, dining and loft-style living. From its many contemporary restaurants to its fabulous night life, Braamfontein offers an array of exciting activities. It is also undoubtedly the underground fashion hub of Johannesburg, often referred to as "sneaker town". You never quite know what you might find in this eclectic part of the city.

What Are You Looking For?

Shopping
Entertainment
Restaurants
Hotels and Accommodation
Schools
Municipal Services
Conference Venues
Jobs
Property 

Shopping

Braamfontein is quite unlike any other shopping destination in the city. There few malls and shopping centres here, but rather a collection of independent fashion stores, curio shops and artisanal markets. Braam is the ultimate shopping hub for fashion fundis, collectors and organic food lovers. 70 Juta Street is one of the area's top retail precincts. Here, you will find an ever-expanding number of pop-up shops and local fashion boutiques. If you're not one to follow the crowd, this is the place to do your fashion buying. The Neighbourgoods Market is also a favourite for farm fresh goods and handmade crafts. Overall, Braamfontein offers a truly unique shopping experience well worth exploring.

Explore Shopping in Braamfontein.

Entertainment

Braamfontein boasts an equally vibrant daytime and nighttime entertainment scene. Whether you prefer a casual stroll around a weekend market or epic adventures under the cover of darkness, Braam offers an assortment of fun hangouts and entertainment activities. The suburb is also lauded for its arts and culture scene. Catch a theatre show at the magnificent Joburg Theatre or visit Constitution Hill to learn about our country's past. Braamfontein is a hive of activity over weekends, bringing a diverse mix of people together to celebrate life in all its glories. If you've ever imagined what a South African utopia looks like, Braam on a Saturday night would be it. People of all creeds, colours and orientations gather here to eat, drink and be merry. So, what are you waiting for? Get in on the Braamfontein party scene or you'll be missing out!

Explore Entertainment in Braamfontein.

Restaurants

From early morning coffee to the midnight munchies, Braamfontein's restaurant scene has got you covered. Thanks to its large student population and nearby business districts, the eateries here offer a wide variety of cuisines. Come and tuck into traditional South African shisanyama, Mediterranean fare or gourmet hot dogs at Braamfontein's top class restaurants. The area is also favoured as one of the best places to grab brunch on a Sunday morning. Think classic eggs Benedict, maple glazed bacon on sweet French toast and some of the best coffee in Joburg. Eating out in Braamfontein is a taste adventure you don't want to skip out on. Come hungry!

Explore Restaurants in Braamfontein.

Hotels & Accommodation

Braamfontein is a verified backpackers town. Come and find the best budget accommodation at one of its hotels, lodges or hostels. Once in Joburg offers you all three in one - as Joburg's only 'poshtel' it welcomes in students, tourists and adventurers of all kinds. You can share a room with friends or bunk with total strangers for the night. It's all about sparing your pocket money for great adventures around the city. Braam is also home to the great Bannister Hotel. After a long night of partying, this is the ideal inexpensive stay over. Plus there's free breakfast to be had in the morning! If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind travel experience, book yourself into a Braamfontein hotel or self-catering accommodation. There is no better way to soak up all that this corner of the city has to offer than by getting right into the thick of it.

Explore Hotels & Accommodation in Braamfontein.

Schools

In spite of its relatively small size, Braamfontein suburb is home to many schools, universities and colleges. Located right in the centre of Braamfontein is the University of the Witwatersrand. This elite tertiary institution is one of the suburb's greatest landmarks and draw cards for students from around the country. There are also a number of private colleges located in the area, specialising in media studies, graphic design and marketing. The National School of the Arts is situated in the area as well, directly opposite the Joburg Theatre complex. The school offers a disciplined curriculum, combining practical arts studies with the national syllabus. Many talented visual artists, dancers, musicians and theatre makers have graduated from this top co-educational high school.

Explore Schools in Braamfontein.

Municipal Services

The City Council of Johannesburg offices are situated in Braamfontein, as is the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality. Visit the various city government departments here for assistance with your water and electricity rates, service delivery, waste removal and road works. The Gauteng Department of Labour and the Provincial office for the Department of Home Affairs are also located in the area. The Provincial Head Office of the South African Police Service is located on Empire road, on the border between Braamfontein and Parktown.

Explore Municipal Services in Braamfontein.

Conference Venues

Thanks to its central city location, Braamfontein is the ideal meeting place for large conferences and events. Thankfully, there are a few conference venues in the area, suited to hosting both small and large gatherings. Constitution Hill plays host to many corporate events, private functions and outdoor music festivals. Whether you’ are hosting a meeting, a seminar or talk, a cocktail reception or a banquet, there should be a space suited to your needs at Con Hill. Similarly, the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Parktonian All-Suite offers event rooms with a seating capacity of up to 450 people. So, if you're looking to hold an event in Joburg, look no further than Braamfontein's best conference venues.

Explore Conference Venues in Braamfontein.

Jobs

Many of South Africa's major corporations have office spaces situated in Braamfontein, including Liberty Holdings Limited, JD Group, Sappi, Bidvest Bank and Hollard. The suburb offers a multitude of work opportunities across a range of fields. Being situated just north of the city centre makes its job market incredibly lucrative. There are numerous means of transport in and out of Braamfontein as well, meaning that workers can easily commute in from areas around the city. The Gautrain at Park Station brings in people from Sandton, Rosebank and Johannesburg East each day to work in Braamfontein.

Explore Jobs in Braamfontein.

Property

Over recent years, Braamfontein has seen massive regeneration. As such, it has regained some of its former glory in terms of property and rentals. If you're on the lookout for a designer loft, this is the place to go house hunting. Many of the suburb's old buildings have been renovated into lush apartment complexes, perfect for young professionals. New Braamfontein Lofts is an urban development making big waves on the property scene. Offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of the inner city, this artisanal residential complex combines the best of industrial-style architecture with contemporary comfort. But don't imagine that only 'cool kids' or artists call Braamfontein home. All are welcome here, so come and find your forever home.

Explore Property in Braamfontein.

Lebo's Soweto Backpackers is the accommodation for backpackers in Soweto. But this is no ordinary overnight stay. Lebo's is all about the experience, offering both daytime tours and overnight adventures. However, there is also a deep sense of homeliness to this humble hotel. With its self-catering guest house, outdoor camp site and nightly meals served around the fire, it's almost impossible not to feel welcome.

Over the past few months, Lebo's has been at a standstill. Following the outbreak of COVID-19, they've had to halt all tours, events and room bookings. To keep themselves afloat, they've offered experience packages to buy now and use later on their walking tours, tuk tuk rides and cycle tours around Soweto. Their quirky yellow tuk tuks have been hard at work too, delivering fresh produce to the community nearby. Overall, throughout this difficult period, Lebo's Soweto Backpackers has shown itself to be a dedicated community centre and beacon of hope for better times. As lockdown regulations begin to ease, here's what Lebo's has in store:

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Lebo's In Level 3 Lockdown

As we enter advanced level 3 lockdown, things are on the up at Lebo's Soweto Backpackers. They are now welcoming essential workers and business guests for accommodation at affordable prices. For nurses, doctors and other essential workers, this service is invaluable. Providing them with a safe place to stay after long shifts, Lebo's has become a safe haven for our most unsung heroes. Strict hygiene measures will be in place to ensure their staff and guests stay healthy.

As we gradually reopen our economy too, many business people require a safe, comfortable and affordable venue to stay over. Lebo's is saving the day with their budget accommodation and homely atmosphere. The hotel should also soon open their doors to guests for recreational purposes as well. We can't think of a better place to unwind after months in lockdown. It's the home away from home you never knew you needed!

Guided Tours

Tour guides are allowed to operate in level 3 lockdown as well, which means that Lebo's unique Soweto experiences have been able to resume to some extent. This winter they are offering superb deals on their walking and cycle tours through the historical streets of Soweto. Small family groups, couples or individuals are invited to book a private tour at discounted rates. Come and experience Soweto like never before, taking in all the sights, sounds and tastes that Lebo's has to offer. This is definitely going down on our post-lockdown bucket list!

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For More Information

Visit www.sowetobackpackers.com for more information about Lebo's Soweto Backpackers accommodation and experience packages. You can also follow them on Facebook or Instagram to stay up to date with their lockdown offerings.

Details: 10823A Pooe Street, Orlando West, Soweto, Johannesburg | (Tel) +27 (0)11 936 3444 /+27 (0)74 360 9085 | [email protected]