Also known as the “Land of the Silver Mist”, this magical destination is rich with culture and history.
On the far northeastern escarpment of the Drakensberg mountain range in Limpopo, where it includes the towering Wolkberg and the mystic Iron Crown mountain at 2,200m above sea level, lies the beautiful “Land of the Silver Mist” – also known as Magoebaskloof. Often covered by a blanket of soft early-morning mist, the valleys and mountains of Magoebaskloof are turned into a magical, fairy-like destination.
Magoebaskloof is situated about 70km east from Polokwane on the R71 to Tzaneen (located another 25km to the northeast). After passing the town of Moria, the R71 meanders through beautiful indigenous forests and green plantations to the little hamlet of Haenertsburg which dates back to the days of the gold rush. It was established in 1887. Much effort is being made to preserve the town’s rich cultural and historical inheritance and it still boasts a charming old-world character and friendly people. The town is popular for its soulful pubs and eateries, and many city dwellers make Haenertsburg their second home.
Built on the Great Letaba River between Haenertsburg and Magoebaskloof, the Ebenezer Dam offers its own share of pleasure and leisure. Recent property developments on the dam include the selling of bankside stands with accompanying building regulations. From Haenertsburg the Magoebaskloof Pass, which drops about 600m over 6km, takes you through breathtaking scenery and awesome views all the way to the town of Tzaneen which offers the necessary medical, business, shopping and educational facilities.
For decades, the area’s popular hiking trails, the renowned Magoebaskloof Hotel and the nearby Debegeni falls were the main attractions for city folk. In recent years, the concept of having a second/holiday home in the area has become increasingly popular, and there are many things to in the town. “This area is ideal for any type of buyer looking to own a home away from home and the busy city just to come and unwind and relax,” says agent Norman Hazelhurst.
Fruit and timber farming and opportunities in the tourism industry also draw more permanent residents to the area. “This is also an excellent place for a family to reside as there are a variety of schools of an excellent standard in the vicinity,” says estate agent Frank Warne.
Haenertsburg is the true jewel in the crown when it comes to village lifestyle
-Frank Warne, agent in the area
Best in food
- The Iron Crown Pub and Bistro: offering cold beer and scrumptious food catering for all tastes, from specialty burgers and steaks to fine dining
- Pot n Plow: a vibey pub where pizza is king
- Blueberry Heights Farm: for some lip-smacking blueberry dishes on the bank of the Ebenezer Dam.
Adventure attractions
- Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours
- Mountain biking, quad biking and hiking on various trails
- White water tubing
- Abseiling
- Boat cruising on the Ebenezer Dam
Places to visit
- Cheerio Gardens (berry picking)
- Zwakala Brewery
- Agatha Crocodile Ranch
- Wegraakbosch Organic Cheese Farm
- Modjadji Cycad Forest
Area insight into the neighbourhood:
What are the best things about the area for families?
The village of Haenertsburg is surrounded by beautiful mountains, flowing rivers and wonderful countryside which offer a great outdoor lifestyle. The town has excellent restaurants, cafes and shops along with a wide selection of houses and cottages suiting all needs. In the Magoebaskloof area is a superb luxury secure complex which overlooks the Ebenezer Dam (over 20km long). The estate offers luxurious houses and stands located next to the water’s edge providing unlimited access to the dam for all water sports and that complete relaxed holiday feeling.
Frank Warne: Pam Golding
What type of farms are available in the Magoebaskloof area?
With some of the biggest commercial timber and fruit farms in South Africa, Magoebaskloof is ideal for a farmer looking to enter into the timber or fruit farming industry, or for an experienced and established timber or fruit farmer. As a result of the climate, the area has become home to commercial forestry plantations of pine and eucalyptus and various fruits including avocados, raspberries, blueberries and kiwi fruit. It has also allowed the development of ornamental gardens, open to the public, hosting plants more suited to colder climates like Japanese maples and flowering cherry trees and azaleas.
Norman Hazelhurst: Century 21 Tzaneen
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.