For the outdoorsy folk, spring is the perfect time to get those steps in. Put away your K-Way puffer jackets and grab those Fitbits, because Pretoria has a hike or two for you.
Wolwespruit Mountain Bike and Trail Park is a fantastic spot.
Day passes for mountain biking are R60 and, at an even bigger steal, R35 for trail running. (See issue 9 for more details). Groenkloof Nature Reserve is also a fantastic spot to increase those endorphins, with day passes starting at R45. The trails are home to horses and zebras, so Groenkloof doubles as a low budget Kruger trip too!
The Waterkloof lookout point
Once a well-kept secret, the lookout point has now become the place for a sneaky picnic or a sundowner. At the low, low cost of zero Rand, you too can perch yourself on a rock, whip out your cheeseboard and enjoy the setting sun. Bonus points if you spot a bird and shout, “bird”.
Nkwe Day Trip from Pretoria
Spring in Pretoria is that perfect time between arctic winter and volcanic lava summer, so naturally that means swimming. Nkwe Pleasure Resort offers day passes from R80 and is a great spot to have a picnic, get your tan on or perform an Olympic-worthy dive off the top of the waterfall. Your move, Tom Daley.
Quiz Nights
If spring has sprung out your extra brain cells, put your skills on show at a local quiz night. There are ample opportunities to impress, with quizzes on almost every night of the week. Monday at Eazy Tiger from 18:00, Tuesdays at Springbok Bar from 18:00, and Wednesdays at Terra Rooftop Bar from 18:30 or Aandklas at 18:00. Tiger’s Milk and Jukes also occasionally offer quiz nights so keep an eye out for those.
Experience Turkish Culture at the Buyuk Chamlija Socia Eco Park
Buyuk Chamlija Socio Eco Techno Park is an absolute gem, hidden in that shadowy place we call Centurion. The tranquil farm boasts an abundance of pomegranate, fig and olive trees, instantly transporting you to the east, but in Centurion. The on-site restaurant Karinja is built in a traditional Turkish dome style and does not disappoint. On the food front, there is also a Turkish coffee and ice-cream truck. The Eco Park hosts markets on the weekend, with the next one coming up on 4 November. As if Turkish food, perfectly landscaped gardens and old-world charm weren’t enough, there is also a bird park and a goat and alpaca sanctuary. You’re welcome.
Ayesha Vania
PDBY is the official student newspaper of the University of Pretoria.
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