La Belle Esperance Adventure Farm

Have yourself a very historic hike on Majuba Mountain (five minutes’ drive), the site of the First Boer War, and kick off what could be a history-packed itinerary if you so wish… with the small historic town of Memel (50 minutes) and Newcastle’s battle sites and museums (40 minutes) no huge car journey away, you’ll have plenty of time for it… If you’re not viewing the Volksrust (20 minutes) landscapes from above – as paragliding is popular in this area – down below are more historic attractions, including a steam train. Add birds and hippos to your sightseeing list… your best chance to view them is in the splendid Seekoeivlei Nature Reserve (40 minutes). Otherwise, birdwatchers and history buffs will find plenty of species, historic buildings and museums in Wakkerstroom (35 minutes). There’s more game in the Utrecht Balele Community Game Park (an hour), from giraffes and zebras to warthog and wildebeest. After a lazier afternoon with the gang, perfecting your swing? There’s a golf course (20 minutes) within striking distance for such activities.