Let’s Hit the Road: Exploring Joburg to Val and Back

Hey there! Are you ready for an exciting adventure? I’ve got something special planned for us today. We’re going on a small town road trip from Joburg to Val and back. Grab your favorite snacks, put on your comfiest clothes, and let’s hit the open road!

Now, I know what you might be thinking – why a small town road trip? Well, let me tell you, my friend, there’s something magical about exploring the hidden gems and untapped beauty of these lesser-known places. It’s like unlocking a secret world that only a few people have discovered.

So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey. As we drive from Joburg to Val, we’ll be treated to breathtaking views of rolling hills, vast plains, and charming little towns that dot the landscape. It’s a feast for the eyes, and I can’t wait for you to experience it.

Along the way, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. Whether it’s snapping pictures of scenic spots, enjoying a picnic in a beautiful park, or savoring some delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

One of the highlights of this trip is Val, a quaint town that’s bursting with character. As we wander through its charming streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The historic buildings, cozy cafes, and friendly locals create an atmosphere that’s hard to resist.

But our adventure doesn’t end there. As we make our way back to Joburg, we’ll have a chance to reflect on the memories we’ve made and the experiences we’ve had. It’s a time to cherish the moments and let the beauty of the journey sink in.

So, my friend, are you ready to hit the road with me? Let’s embark on this small town road trip together and create memories that will last a lifetime. Trust me, it’s going to be an adventure like no other!

Hey there! I’m Ryan Enslin, and I’ve got a wild itch for exploring unconventional destinations. When I want to escape the hustle and bustle of Joburg for a weekend, I steer clear of the typical trips to Durban or the Magaliesburg. You see, I’m on the lookout for something different, something off the beaten path.

Ah, the feeling of pure excitement that always comes with embarking on a road trip from Joburg. It’s as if the boundaries of the city disappear as you venture beyond its familiar streets. The anticipation builds as you prepare and plan for the journey ahead, not knowing what lies beyond.

And guess what? I’ve got the perfect companion for this thrilling adventure – the Mini Clubman, John Cooper Works Edition. Let me tell you about an incredible 255km round trip that you can complete in just 3.5 hours of driving time. Get ready to embrace the thrill of the open road!

From Joburg to Heidelberg

Heading out of the city, I take a short drive of just 50km southeast on the N3 to reach the charming town of Heidelberg. Steeped in history, Heidelberg began as a humble trading post back in 1862. Over time, it grew in importance, becoming a vital link between Johannesburg, Natal, and the Free State. This strategic location attracted the attention of influential figures, including Nelson Mandela, who visited the town in November 1996 and received honorary citizenship in the historic old town hall.

As I enter Heidelberg, my first destination is the Heidelberg Heritage Museum, housed in the former train station building. But before immersing myself in the town’s history, I decide to grab a delicious lunch at the Beer House. To make the meal even more special, I opt for their Heidelberg Heritage Beers, which come with fascinating stories of their own. Taking part in the brewery tour and beer tasting is an absolute must. One of my personal favorites is Ghandi’s Ale, a brew that pays tribute to yet another iconic visitor to this remarkable town.

I’m excited to share with you the incredible experiences you can have at the Heidelberg Heritage Museum! Our staff is truly dedicated to preserving the rich history of our town. To bring this history to life, we’ve created the Heidelberg Heritage Route. Make sure to grab your Heritage Tour Map, which features 30 stops that will take you on a journey through time.

Once you have your map in hand, equipped with a QR scanner on your mobile device, you can embark on a self-drive adventure around town. This allows you to set your own pace and delve deep into the fascinating stories that make Heidelberg so special. Trust me, there’s so much to explore that you can easily spend a full day immersing yourself in our town’s history.

One stop that caught my attention was Rensburg street. I had heard rumors of strange phenomena occurring here, and I was too curious to resist. According to local legends, water in this area flows uphill. It’s hard to believe, right? Unfortunately, when I visited, the weather was clear, so I put that particular mystery on hold for a future visit on a rainy day. But it’s something you should definitely check out if you have the chance!

Heidelberg to Balfour

I leave Heidelberg and make my way onto the N3. After a short turn onto the R23, I find myself heading towards Balfour, just 35km away. Back in 1897, this town was known as McHattiesburg, but it was later renamed Balfour after a visit from the British Prime Minister, Arthur James Balfour, in 1905.

Instead of going into town, I decide to visit Welgelegen Manor, located on the outskirts. This beautiful Manor House, designed by Herbert Baker, is the perfect place for a peaceful country retreat. It has everything you need right on its property, ensuring a relaxing and comfortable stay. Here, life moves at a slower pace, allowing you to fully enjoy every moment.

Welgelegen Manor

As I step into the beautifully appointed dining room at Welgelegen, I can’t help but feel like I’ve traveled back in time. The resident chef prepares a delicious dinner that perfectly embodies the ethos of this place.

After a restful night’s sleep, I wake up early, ready to explore the estate. Taking a leisurely stroll around the grounds, I take in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. It’s the perfect way to start the day and rejuvenate my soul.

Feeling relaxed and content, I spend a lazy morning reading. There’s something magical about being immersed in a good book while surrounded by the peacefulness of Cosmos Country.

For lunch, I indulge in a decadent high tea picnic on the lawn. As I savor each bite, I can’t help but reflect on my own life and the beauty of the world around me.

With my self-introspection complete, I’m ready to set off again. The next stop on my adventure is the village of Val. Pronounced “fell” with an Afrikaans accent, it offers a unique experience for those who appreciate English-speaking charm combined with Afrikaans influence. It’s a place where tradition and culture come together in perfect harmony.

From Balfour to Val

Alright, let’s hit the road again! I’m back on the R23, and now it’s time to take a turn onto the R547. This last stretch of the journey is just 10km long, making the whole trip a quick 47km in total. I must say, I’m a fan of these shorter distances. They give me more time to soak in the sights and sounds of each stop along the way, instead of being stuck behind the wheel for hours on end. It’s perfect for those quick weekend getaways when you just want to escape for a little while.

Welcome to Val – a small, charming hamlet that I like to call home. Here in Val, we have a hidden gem that brings life and character to our town – the Val Hotel. And let me tell you, this place is no ordinary hotel; it’s a labor of love, owned and run by none other than Rita Britz.

Now, Rita isn’t just the owner of the Val Hotel; she’s the heart and soul of our community. Her family has deep roots in this area, going back seven generations to the days of the Great Trek. She’s a proud custodian of Val and cares deeply for both the town and the people who walk its streets.

Welcome to the Val Hotel

I’m so excited for my last evening of this road trip! The Val Hotel is a popular spot for cyclists and bikers, and it’s where I’ll be staying tonight. As I drive in, I can’t help but notice the railway line. My heart skips a beat as I imagine the breathtaking sunrise photos I’ll be able to capture on its rusty, moody tracks.

After parking my Mini, I meet up with my friend Rita for a quick drink. She tells me some fascinating stories about the history of Val and the surrounding area. It’s amazing how much history can be packed into a small place like this.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that even Mahatma Gandhi has a connection to Val. In 1914, while on a peace march from Charlestown to the goldfields of Joburg, he and the protesters passed through Val. They were briefly imprisoned here for the night before continuing on their journey.

These stories make me appreciate Val even more. It’s not just a picturesque spot for cyclists and bikers; it has a rich history that adds another layer of fascination to the place. I can’t wait to explore more tomorrow!

I’ve got a fascinating story to share about the Whiskey Train. Back in September 1900, there was a train carrying whiskey that derailed just outside Val. Can you believe it? The British and Boer soldiers were in the midst of a big fight, and this unexpected derailment must have been quite the surprise for them. But you know what they say, a little sip of the water of life can ease any tension, even if it’s just for a day. So, it seems like both sides took advantage of this lucky incident and enjoyed a break from the senselessness of war. Cheers, boet! As you can imagine, the Whiskey Train incident is still celebrated every year in Val during the Brit and Boer Festival.

Now, as I make my way to my room, Rita tells me that it used to be the old bottle store of the town. Can you believe it? My room used to be where all the bottles were kept! That’s pretty cool, if you ask me. And let me tell you, the room itself is quite impressive. The headboard is made from pressed metal ceiling panels, which gives it a unique and fascinating look. It’s definitely a room with a story to tell!

When I visited the hotel kitchen, I met Rita, who is truly dedicated to the farm-to-fork philosophy. The following day, she excitedly takes me to her own herb and vegetable garden. As we walk, I can’t help but notice a magnificent old oak tree. To my surprise, it has been transformed into a unique dining spot with a billiards table underneath it. This is where I will have the pleasure of enjoying another early lunch.

Rita’s commitment to the farm-to-fork concept becomes evident as I savor the flavors and freshness of the food she has prepared. Every bite feels like a connection to the land and the source of our sustenance. As I sit under the shade of the ancient oak tree, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of nourishment, not just for my body but for my soul as well. It’s as if this meal is a fitting conclusion to my weekend road trip, a final moment of blissful indulgence.

My Journey Back to Joburg

Leaving Val behind, I embark on a 130km drive back to Joburg. This leg of the trip is the longest, giving me plenty of time to reflect on my adventure. It’s funny how us Joburgers can be so predictable when it comes to travel, especially when making last-minute plans. We often find ourselves sticking to the same old destinations when we want to get away for the weekend. But the truth is, we’re sitting on a treasure trove of hidden gems right on our doorstep.

If there’s one thing that COVID has taught me, it’s the value of exploring our local surroundings. Places like Heidelberg, Balfour, and Val are just the tip of the iceberg. They offer a fresh and exciting direction for our travels, all within a stone’s throw of Joburg.

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