History, culture, food…the capital city of Pretoria has more to offer than travellers might think. With year round moderate temperatures, exploring the city’s gems is a blast.
We’ve compiled a list of top things to do to make the most of your stay in this urban paradise!
1. Ludwig’s roses
A true sensory experience with farm fields covered in colourful rose buds. This rose farm provides magnificent opportunities, a massive rose nursery, shops where you can purchase farm-made rose products such as rose diffusers, rose tea, rose-filled pillows and more. The restaurant brings you great food and memorable moments with signature menu items such as rose coffee and rose gin. You can even hop onto the tractor train which will give you the best seat in the house to view the rose fields in all their splendour.
2. Roodeplaat dam provincial nature reserve
Believe it or not, this urban jungle easily connects you with nature. Take a day to visit the Roodeplaat Dam Provincial Nature reserve where you can enjoy hiking around the dam, take in the birdlife from the bird hides and spot a variety of wildlife. Pack a picnic basket and settle next to the river banks, canoe, sail or fish and enjoy the beautiful views.
3. Freedom park heritage site & museum
Get a detailed look at South African history as you walk the hillside paths of this memorial park which features ponds, sculptures and contemporary designs to commemorate SA’s turbulent history. Tours of the grounds are available and can be booked online using the park’s website. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes when exploring this vast area.
4. Pretoria national botanical gardens
The capital city’s very own oasis where you can experience a wide range of fauna and flora. Lush green lawns and shady trees make for perfect picnic and braai spots to lazy around on a hot sunny day. There is also an on-premise restaurant and children’s play area for those wanting to take a break from taking long walks through the garden. A majestic waterfall and small creek make for the ultimate romantic back-drop scenery to amplify your picnic.
5. Wolwespruit bike and trail park
Run, ride or hike your way through thrilling drops, jumps, river crossings and challenging uphill trails. The Wolwespruit MTB park has 3 great special features; they have one of the largest pump tracks around, a skills clinic area and a jump line for those who love a double dose of adrenaline. The park also boasts various restaurants where you can enjoy contemporary cuisine and urban elegance post your bike and hike adventure.
6. Union buildings
Experience architecture, beautiful gardens and historical artefacts at its best. You’ll also get to see the majestic statue of Nelson Mandela while taking in the views of the capital city. We recommend you book a photoshoot to get the most of your visit here as the Union Buildings make for stunning architectural shots. The lawns make for perfect picnic spots too, if you’re planning to spoil that special someone.
7. Church square
Located in the city’s centre, this is a worthwhile visit if you are looking for interesting history. At Church Square, you can see the Palace of Justice on the northern side and on the south you will be able to spot buildings such as the Capital Theatre, Netherlands Bank, the Tudor Chambers and the Old Council Building which is more than 100 years old. If you happen to be here on a Wednesday morning between 09:00 and 10:30, you might spot the National Ceremonial Guard on parade.
8. Jacaranda trees in Brooklyn
Be sure to take a walk through the majestic streets of Brooklyn, Pretoria during the October- November months when the Jacaranda trees are in full bloom. This purple paradise is sure to bring you photo memories to last a lifetime and makes for the perfect backdrop to a romantic couple or fun family shoot.
Planning a trip to the capital city? The Premier Hotel Roodevalley lies on the banks of the Pienaar’s River in Pretoria, surrounded by a nature reserve and a bird sanctuary. The hotel offers a relaxed bush setting within easy reach of Pretoria, Menlyn, Johannesburg and OR Tambo International Airport, complete with thatched buildings and beautiful boma experiences, for a true African feel. Opt for prime accommodation and live your life the premier way as you explore the urban splendour of Pretoria.