Summer fun in Harties - Five exciting activities for a warm start to 2022
For those fortunate enough to live within the scenic and tranquil setting of Hartbeespoort dam, the thrills of the summer holidays are right outside your backyard. From exquisite restaurants that cater to finer tastes to hiking trails along with the Magaliesberg range, this picturesque slice of Africa has it all.
We take a closer look at some of our favourite locations and attractions to keep you entertained during the summer of 2022.
A visit to the aerial cableway
Perhaps the signature attraction of the Hartbeespoort experience, besides the dam, is the iconic Aerial Cableway which provides exceptional 360 views of the magnificent Magaliesberg range. What's more, the cableway has been recently overhauled and remodelled with modern features making it as safe as it is breathtaking.
Beyond simply taking in the view, there are a host of family-friendly activities at the peak of the mountain. From the famous Dassie Loop walkway with educational placards along the trail to express food stalls and stylish restaurants with postcard-like views of the Hartbeespoort proper.
A trip to the Ale House
For all you craft beer lovers out there, the Ale House is a popular attraction and must-visit experience. Ale House is essentially a novelty restaurant that serves beer and pizza to patrons while they take in the signature views of the Magaliesberg Range.
What makes the Ale House so unique is the offering of craft beers it has on selection. There is always only a select pair of custom made ales that rotate through depending on the menu and the season. The wood-burning pizza oven only serves ingredients that are sourced from local proudly Harties produce.
A tour of the Hartbeespoort Dam
Visiting the dam in Harties is like seeing the Statue of Liberty in NYC. You simply cannot miss the experience while you're there. For homeowners and residents, a summer visit to the dam is a staple. From boat cruises on the marina to thrill-seeking water-skiing adventures. Hartbeespoort's dam has it all.
If you're looking for a relaxing cruise then try one of the famous Sunday Lunch Boat Cruises with the Harties Boat Company which offers a host of special cruises on public holidays. The cruises generally set course next to the picturesque lakeside lifestyle estates such as The Islands and Kosmos Village which compete for waterside real estate.
Jet skiing along the calm waters of the dam is an extremely popular pastime for Harties homeowners and holiday-makers alike. From the hub of the Harties Watersport Center, become immersed in water and take in the spirit of adventure!
Explore the peculiar Upside-down House
Take a scenic drive and meander through the Magaliesberg until you come across one of the more peculiar destinations along the road to the Cradle of Humankind. The Upside-down house is quite literally built upside down and offers a unique yet bizarre experience that takes inspiration from the absurdist movement.
This unique yet odd home even has its accessories and furniture built in upside down. Since the home is built at an angle, the illusion is enhanced when first stepping into this marvel of modern art and architecture. If anything, the home provides a strong visual experience which allows for some extremely memorable and charming pictures to be taken.
A fun-filled day in Pretville
Get a little taste of Hollywood when you step into the colourful world of the 50s themed set created to provide a very specific historical era of diners and milkshakes to the backdrop of Elvis Presley. Who would have thought that Graceland can be found right here in Harties' backyard?
Pretville set the stage for a locally produced film that was released in 2012 and shares the same name. And just like The Shire in New Zealand, Pretville remains a popular tourist attraction years later.
Other than a cool dining experience, you also get to wander through this vintage set and take part in this slice of history with photo booths where you can dress up in 50s themed outfits and truly take part. Pretville is open to the public whether you're just dropping in or if you've made a booking.
Local Shopping
Perhaps the most popular shopping complex in the area is the Village Mall which opened its doors to the public in early 2008. With over 50 specialist stores that cater to the needs of any age or gender, this centre offers modern delights with relative ease. Since Johannesburg is merely a stone's throw away, one has access to the best shopping experiences in the land.
Local restaurants
We may have mentioned a few places to stop and eat above. But Harties is home to some of the best modern restaurants that deserve a few special mentions. If you're in and around the area or just looking for a new spot to try out, consider some of our options below.
Explore more of what Harties has to offer.
Whether you're looking to relocate your family to a more scenic environment or whether you're looking for a second home in splendid Harties, contact us at Property Tree and let our professional group of real estate agents find the right home for you!