10 Amazing Weekend Getaways near Johannesburg

Hey there! If you’re itching for a weekend escape, I’ve got you covered with this fantastic list of getaways that are just a stone’s throw away from Johannesburg.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a tranquility seeker, or an adventurer at heart, there’s a perfect spot for you in these nearby getaways.

Here, you’ll find thrilling game reserves, enchanting forests, charming farm retreats, blissful spa retreats, and even an authentic ox-wagon camp. No matter if you’re planning a romantic getaway or a fun-filled trip with family and friends, you’ll discover the ideal destination to escape the city hustle.

1. Thabela Thabeng Mountain Retreat, Parys

Travel time from Joburg city centre: Only 1 hour and 30 minutes

Hey there! Let me tell you about a fantastic place called Thabela Thabeng. It’s only 100km away from Johannesburg, right in the middle of the Vredefort Dome, which is a special world heritage site. You’ll find it nestled between beautiful mountains and the Vaal River. Can you imagine a more perfect location?

Now, picture this: luxury chalets perched on the edge of a deep kloof in the mountains. Not only do they have cozy fireplaces to keep you warm in winter, but they also have balconies that offer breathtaking views. It’s like a little piece of paradise where you can escape from the busyness of everyday life and just relax.

Guess what? These chalets have everything you need for a self-catering getaway! You can cook your own meals and enjoy the freedom of doing things at your own pace. Oh, and if you’re traveling with a big group, the youth hostel and silo are perfect for you. They also have self-catering facilities, making it super convenient.

Now, let’s talk about the incredible activities you can do at Thabela Thabeng. Are you ready for some adventure? You can go hiking, mountain biking, and even try your hand at bow shooting. If you’re feeling daring, how about abseiling down a cliff? And when night falls, you can stargaze and be amazed by the beauty of the night sky. There’s something for everyone, no matter what you’re into!

Now, let me give you some important info. The cost for a weekend stay in the Eagle’s Nest Chalet, which sleeps four, is R690 per person per night. If you prefer to stay during the week, it’s even more affordable at only R490 per person per night. That’s a pretty sweet deal for such a stunning place!

Ready to book your stay? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Thabela Thabeng. You can reach them at 056 818 1116 or shoot them an email at [email protected]

2. Mistique Waters, Parys

How long does it take to travel from Joburg city center?

Well, here’s an interesting question. If you’re starting your journey in the heart of Joburg, it’ll take you about an hour and 10 minutes to reach your destination. That’s not too shabby, right?

Now, let’s consider the implications of this travel time. Imagine you have a job interview in a different city, and you’re trying to figure out how early you need to leave to make it on time. The answer lies in understanding how long it’ll take you to get there.

Now, I’m no time travel expert, but I do know that getting from one place to another can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. You have to navigate traffic, find the best route, and maybe even make a pit stop for coffee. All in all, it can be a little stressful.

But fear not, my friend! I have some tips to help make your journey a little smoother. First of all, plan ahead. Make sure you know the best route to take and which roads to avoid. This can save you a lot of time and frustration.

Next, give yourself some extra time. Life is unpredictable, and you never know what might come up. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, right?

Lastly, don’t forget to relax and enjoy the journey. Traveling can be an adventure, after all. Take a moment to appreciate the scenery, listen to some good music, or maybe even start a podcast. The time will fly by, I promise.

So there you have it. The travel time from Joburg city center is about an hour and 10 minutes. But remember, it’s not just about the destination – it’s also about the journey. Safe travels!

If you’re looking for a place to stay by the Vaal River, you’ve come to the right spot. Mistique Waters is a self-catering guest house with stunning river views. When you arrive, you’ll find comfortable apartments ready for you to unwind in. Each apartment has its own bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen. You can relax in front of the TV and watch your favorite shows on DStv. And don’t worry about the heat – the apartments have air conditioning to keep you cool.

Mistique Waters is conveniently located near the Parys Golf and Country Estate and the River Spa. You can easily walk to these places, as well as the local shops. If you’re an adventure seeker, there are plenty of exciting activities to do in the area. You can go river rafting or try your hand at fly fishing. If you’re feeling brave, you can even go abseiling or take a 4×4 trail. For nature lovers, there are beautiful hiking routes and bird-watching spots. And if you want to see the area from up above, you can take a thrilling helicopter or hot air balloon ride.

While you’re staying at Mistique Waters, make sure to visit the Vredefort Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a place of great geological importance and will surely leave you in awe. And if you enjoy browsing through antique shops, visiting art galleries, and trying out new restaurants, Parys has it all. You can spend your days exploring the town, sipping coffee at cozy coffee shops, and indulging in delicious meals. Mistique Waters is the perfect base for your adventure-filled trip to Parys.

Cost: You can stay at Misty View Apartment, a self-catering unit that sleeps four, for only R1,600 per night. If you prefer a bed and breakfast option, the Amaryllis room is available for two people sharing at a rate of R975 per night.

Contact: To make a reservation, you can call us at 056 050 0880 or 072 405 2338. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at [email protected]

3. Hollybrooke Adventure Farms

Travel time from Joburg city centre: It will take you approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to travel from the heart of Johannesburg to Hollybrooke Adventure Farms.

Quad biking is just one of the awesome things you can do at Hollybrooke Farms.

Imagine living like a real farmer for a few days in one of the cozy stone cottages at Hollybrooke Farms. They’re right by the gorgeous Magalies river. You’ll get to see and experience the relaxed, slower pace of life on a working farm. They’ve got all kinds of stuff going on here, like cattle, crops, and pecan nuts. And for the little ones, there are all sorts of cute farm animals to meet and greet. But the fun doesn’t stop there – the whole family can get in on the action! You can explore the entire property on horseback or on a rad quad bike. And if you’ve got a sharp eye and steady hand, unleash your inner marksman and give archery and air-rifle target shooting a try in the firing range. Once you’re feeling confident in your aim, challenge your loved ones to a thrilling game of paintball. But if you just feel like relaxing and taking it easy, you can bask in the warm sunshine and admire the stunning view of the beautiful Magaliesburg.

Price: Starting at R1500 per night per four-sleeper cabin, where you can prepare your own meals
Contact: Email [email protected]

4. Cherry Grove Luxury Apartments, Dullstroom

Approximate travel time from Johannesburg city center: 2 hours and 30 minutes

The Cherry Grove apartments transport me to a charming Tuscan piazza. They exude luxury and comfort, boasting private balconies that offer picturesque views of the piazza situated in the serene outskirts of Dullstroom. Within this delightful piazza, you’ll discover The Duck & Trout, a lively gathering spot beloved by Dullstroom locals. Adjacent to it, an art gallery, coffee shop, and gift shop create a lively ambiance. With cozy fireplaces and DStv, these apartments create the perfect haven for snug evenings. Waking up may prove challenging, but those who manage to do so will be rewarded with excellent trout fishing opportunities in the area. However, the only real demand on your time will be the rising trout, for Dullstroom prides itself on promoting relaxation and recuperation from the pressures of city life.

Cost: Starting from R595 per person
Contact: 083 484 9828; [email protected]

5. Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, Bela-Bela

It takes around 2 hours to travel from Joburg city centre:.

Have you ever heard of Mabalingwe Nature Reserve? It’s a fantastic place to visit, located near Bela-Bela. This nature reserve spans 12,500 hectares of malaria-free bushveld and is perfect for a family getaway. Let me tell you more about it.

One of the best things about Mabalingwe is its convenient location. If you leave the city after work on a Friday afternoon, you can reach Mabalingwe in time to set up your tent and still catch the beautiful sunset. The reserve has a well-maintained network of game-viewing roads that are accessible even with a Citi Golf.

When it comes to accommodation, Mabalingwe has you covered. They have a large caravan park with 67 shady stands, perfect for camping. If camping is not your thing, they also offer a variety of self-catering options, so you can choose what suits you best.

Now, let’s talk about the cost. Camping at Mabalingwe starts from R185 per stand per night, with a maximum occupancy of four people. Be sure to check out their website for more information about their lodges and other camping options.

If you’re interested in visiting Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, you can contact them at 014 001 7011 or send an email to [email protected] . You can also visit their website at www.mabalingwe.co.za.

6. Tussen-i-Bome Guest Farm, Cullinan

Travel time from Joburg city centre: Need to get from Joburg city centre to your destination? No problem – it’ll only take you about 1 hour and 10 minutes! Whether you’re heading out for a day trip or embarking on a longer adventure, you’re in for a smooth and relatively short journey.

At Tussen-i-Bome, we have a range of accommodation options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer camping, self-catering chalets, or something more unique like our ox-wagon camps, we’ve got you covered. Our ox-wagon camps are especially exciting because they allow you to experience a piece of history. These authentic ox wagons date back to between 1860 and 1935, giving you a glimpse into the past.

When it comes to activities, we have something for everyone. You can explore our hiking trails and take in the beautiful bush scenery. If you have children, they’ll love our swimming pool and play area. We understand the importance of keeping little ones entertained.

In the evenings, you can enjoy sundowners on our hilltop deck, where you’ll have a breathtaking view of the entire farm. And if you’re feeling nostalgic, you can bake bread in our traditional clay oven to accompany your braai. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of authenticity to your weekend.

If sleeping in an ox wagon isn’t enough of a unique experience for you, we have one more surprise. Our huge half-barrel bath is sure to wow you. It’s the cherry on top of a truly memorable weekend.

Hey there! I’ve got a fantastic recommendation for you. It’s a place called Villa Paradiso Country Manor, located in Hartbeespoort. You won’t believe the incredible experience you can have there, and guess what? It won’t break the bank!

Cost: The prices are super reasonable – you can stay in a camping or caravan stand for just R350 per night. If you prefer something a bit more unique, they have ox wagons available for R400 per person per night. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can stay in a bos-lapas for just R350 per person per night. How cool is that?

Contact: If you’re ready to book your stay, you can reach out to Villa Paradiso Country Manor at 0825111169 or send them an email at [email protected]

And the best part? It’s only a one-hour drive from Joburg city centre, so you won’t have to spend hours on the road to get there. It’s the perfect weekend getaway!

When it comes to country getaways, Villa Paradiso is a hidden gem. Nestled high above the town of Hartbeespoort and the sparkling Hartbeespoortdam, this charming country manor offers 60 double bedrooms for the perfect retreat.

From the moment you arrive, Villa Paradiso enchants you with its breathtaking views. The majority of the rooms feature private balconies or direct access to the beautifully landscaped gardens, creating a sense of grandeur and tranquility.

It’s the ideal home base for exploring the town of Hartbeespoort. Here, you’ll experience the best of both worlds – the vibrant energy of the town and the tranquility of the countryside. Spend your days wandering through the charming streets, immersing yourself in the local culture and sampling the delicious produce at Jasmyn Plaasprodukte farm stall. From juicy fruits and nuts to freshly baked treats, this farm stall is a feast for the senses.

Cost: For just R899 per person per night, you can enjoy the comfort and luxury of a double room at Villa Paradiso.

Contact: To make a reservation, call 012 253 1847/8.

8. Brookwood Estate and Trout Farm, a Stone’s Throw from Krugersdorp

Travel time from Joburg city center: Only 50 minutes

As I stroll down to the five dams at Brookwood Estate and Trout Farm, a serene oasis located near Krugersdorp, I can’t help but feel like I’ve been transported to the picturesque countryside of England. The lush grounds are meticulously maintained, and the dams are abundantly stocked with fish. Plus, you don’t have to worry about bringing your own fishing gear because it’s available for rent, and the friendly staff are more than happy to provide fishing tips and advice. If you’re looking for accommodation, the estate offers two charming chalets that can comfortably sleep up to four people each, as well as a cozy cabin for two. Just remember to book in advance, as these accommodations are quite popular.

Now, let’s talk about the cost. The entrance fee for adults is R100, and if you’re interested in staying overnight, the self-catering chalets start at R350 per person, per night, while the camper cabins are available for R180 per person, per night (with a minimum two-night stay). If you have any questions or want to make a reservation, you can reach out to them at 082 856 2448 (Wed-Sat) or 072 256 7561 (Sun-Tue), or send an email to [email protected]

9. Cruise-N-Snooze, Vanderbijlpark

How long does it take to get to Johannesburg city center? It takes about an hour to travel from the city center to Joburg.

Hey, why not try something different this weekend? How about ditching the same old ground and heading out for a unique experience on the water?

Embrace your adventurous side and rent a Cruise-N-Snooze houseboat on the Vaal River. These luxury houseboats are fully-equipped and can comfortably accommodate up to four people. They’re conveniently moored in a private lagoon, set apart from the main river by a small island.

Once you’re on board, you’ll have approximately 55km of navigable waters to explore at your own pace. You can navigate through various tributaries, discovering new places and enjoying the serenity of the river. There’s so much to do on the houseboat – whether it’s fishing, bird-watching, swimming, or simply basking under the warm sun or the beautiful starry night sky.

And that’s not all! The riverbanks offer a host of attractions for you to discover. You’ll find restaurants, bars, family entertainment venues, a casino, golf courses, and spas – all within reach from your floating home.

This weekend, choose a new adventure and create unforgettable memories on the water. Rent a Cruise-N-Snooze houseboat and experience the beauty and excitement of the Vaal River.

Cost: You can enjoy a stay at New Horizons Farm in Magaliesburg for as little as R800 per night during low season. However, prices increase to R1 250 per night for two people during peak season, with a minimum stay of 2 nights. Keep in mind that the cost does not include the fuel deposit and refundable security deposit.

10. New Horizons Farm, Magaliesburg

Travel time from Joburg city centre: It will take you approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to get to New Horizons Farm from the city center of Johannesburg.

Hey there! I’ve got an awesome spot to recommend that you might just love. This cozy little house can accommodate up to six people, and it’s situated only seven kilometres away from Magaliesburg. You’ll absolutely adore the tranquil surroundings of New Horizons farm, where the house is located. Take a stroll through the beautiful countryside and then unwind in the evening by the cozy wood-burning fireplace. And the best part? The breathtaking mountain views will truly rejuvenate your spirit, leaving you feeling peaceful and refreshed. Oh, and did I mention that you won’t see any tall buildings around? It’s an absolute paradise!

If you’re interested in a bit of adventure, the farm house is conveniently located near the Maropeng Visitor Centre. You can learn all about The Cradle of Humankind and even explore the famous Sterkfontein Caves. It’s an incredible opportunity to dive into our fascinating history while enjoying a delightful getaway.

This spot is perfect for families, whether you have kids or pets. It’s a wonderful place to create lasting memories together.

Now, let’s talk about the important stuff. The cost for this delightful experience starts at R950 per person. To make a booking or get more information, you can contact the friendly folks at 0822933495 or shoot them an email at [email protected] There’s also an option to book online if that’s your preference.

Just a little heads up, though – please keep in mind that the prices provided may be subject to change. It’s always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand to avoid any surprises when you’re on your way.

Oh, and if you’re interested in similar articles, we’ve got you covered! Check out the other articles on our website for more amazing destinations that you’ll love.