Rustenburg

Rustenburg is a small, quiet town situated at the foot of the Magaliesberg mountain range in the North West Province. It boasts one of the biggest stadiums in South Africa, the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace, which hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Founded in 1851, Rustenburg is rich in historical culture and is the oldest town in the former Transvaal province. The Rustenburg Museum in the Town Hall, the Anglican Church built in 1871, and the Dutch Reformed Church are all great places to visit if you’re interested in history.

There is an 18-hole golf course and many hiking trails for visitors to explore. The Kgaswane Mountain Reserve is a beautiful escape for a mountain retreat with plenty of wildlife to see and around 300 bird species. Visitors can swim in the natural pools, enjoy some great food at the designated picnic spots, or sit next to the breathtaking waterfall. There are even overnight hiking trails, which are roughly 20 km long, but need to be booked in advance.

The Rustenburg Nature Reserve is over 4500 ha with a large and impressive valley and a typically South African bushveld comprising various types of fynbos, grassland and scrub. There are many tree and bush species as well as duiker, reedbuck, kudu, and the rarely seen leopard and brown hyena. The reserve has around 250 bird species and rocky slopes to explore.

The Rustenburg Ramble is perfect for country-style shopping and eating. It offers a variety of craft galleries, farm stalls and quaint little places to eat at. If you want to experience a truly unique dining experience Brauhaus am Damm is the place to go to. This micro-brewery is set in the mountains and offers the finest freshly brewed German beer and a large variety of traditional German dishes, all the while overlooking the beautiful dam.

Once you’ve had enough of game viewing, hiking and eating, be sure to visit the Sparkling Waters Spa for a relaxing massage or soak in the magnificent indoor heated pool.