Although hiking is the main attraction at Mountain Sanctuary Park, the accommodation and picnic spots are equally appealing.
The 1 000-hectare reserve provides ample unmarked trails from 15 minutes to eight hours in duration that cater for all levels of fi tness and there’s also a short (12 kilometres), strenuous and varied mountain-biking trail. You’ll receive a map as you enter, so don’t be too worried about getting lost.
The large swimming pool with a deck overlooking the valley was my favourite spot after a long hike, and a picnic or braai came soon after a dip.
Accommodation is in three-star self-catering log cabins (sleep four to six), chalets (sleep two to six) and camping facilities are a favourite weekend getaway. Linen and towels are provided at an extra cost, or you can take along your own.
To ensure everyone’s peace and quiet, Mountain Sanctuary limits the number of people allowed on the reserve to 180 (including day visitors) and no televisions or radios are allowed.
The private nature reserve is a soothing oasis, a mere blip from Joburg and Pretoria. There are braai areas for the cabins, campers and day visitors. There’s also a restaurant, serving pub meals and gourmet picnic hampers.
Children are welcome and there are a few short trails they can do. The pool is unfenced, but it’s not too close to the camp.
Rock climbers and abseilers with their own equipment will find a number of satisfying routes in the reserve.
A once-off levy is charged for vehicles, trailers or caravans. Booking is essential, particularly in summer.
What it costs to stay at Mountain Sanctuary Park
Chalets start from R350 and log cabins from R400 a person a night. Camping is from R80 a person a night.
Mountain Sanctuary Park contact details
Tel 014-534-0114, email [email protected], www.mountainsanctuary.co.za.
