Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North West
Sailing and boating on Hartbeespoort Dam © Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North West
Hartbeespoort Dam, often referred to as "Harties," is a key landmark located in the North West province of South Africa. Nestled within the scenic Magaliesberg mountain range, the dam and its surrounding areas offer a rich history and a plethora of activities for visitors. The dam was constructed in the early 20th century, primarily to provide irrigation for the region's agricultural activities. Today, it serves as a major recreational destination, attracting tourists from across the country and beyond.
The dam was built by the South African government to harness the waters of the Crocodile River for irrigation purposes, transforming the arid landscape into fertile agricultural land. The Hartbeespoort Dam wall is an iconic structure that plays a crucial role in the region's water management and recreational activities. The construction of Hartbeespoort Dam began in 1916 and was completed in 1923. The dam wall is an impressive feat of engineering, standing at 59.4 meters high and 149.5 meters long, and creating a reservoir that covers approximately 20 square kilometers. This wall not only provides water for irrigation, domestic use, and power generation but also supports a thriving ecosystem and a popular recreational area. Visitors to the dam can enjoy stunning views from the top of the wall, partake in various water sports, and explore the picturesque surroundings, making it a significant landmark and tourist attraction in the Hartbeespoort area.
Hartbeespoort Dam is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by the picturesque Magaliesberg Mountains and the expansive body of water. The dam's serene environment makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views from various vantage points around the dam, especially at sunset when the landscape is bathed in a golden glow. The area is also home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Hartbeespoort Dam area offers a wide range of recreational activities catering to diverse interests. Water sports are particularly popular, with opportunities for boating, jet-skiing, and sailing on the dam's expansive waters. Anglers can try their luck at catching various fish species, including carp, bass, and yellowfish. For those who prefer land-based activities, hiking and mountain biking trails in the surrounding Magaliesberg Mountains provide exhilarating outdoor adventures. The aerial cableway offers a unique way to explore the area, providing panoramic views of the dam and its surroundings.
Beyond its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Hartbeespoort Dam boasts several cultural and entertainment attractions. The nearby Hartbeespoort Dam Snake and Animal Park is a popular family destination, featuring a variety of reptiles, mammals, and birds. Visitors can also explore the Welwitschia Country Market, which offers a charming shopping experience with local crafts, food, and souvenirs. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the various galleries and studios showcasing the works of local artists. Additionally, the area is dotted with restaurants and cafes that offer a taste of local cuisine, providing a delightful culinary experience.
5 Things to Do at Hartbeespoort Dam:
1. Water Sports: Engage in various water sports such as boating, jet-skiing, and sailing on the expansive waters of the dam.
2. Aerial Cableway: Take a ride on the Harties Cableway for breathtaking panoramic views of the dam and the surrounding Magaliesberg Mountains.
3. Hiking and Biking: Explore the scenic hiking and mountain biking trails in the Magaliesberg Mountains, offering both adventure and stunning vistas.
4. Visit the Snake and Animal Park: Spend a day at the Hartbeespoort Dam Snake and Animal Park, which features a variety of reptiles, mammals, and birds.
5. Explore Local Markets: Visit the Welwitschia Country Market and other local markets to shop for crafts, food, and souvenirs, and enjoy the vibrant local culture.
Hartbeespoort Dam combines historical significance with natural beauty and a wide range of recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination in the North West province. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Hartbeespoort Dam offers something for everyone.
Accommodation Near Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North West
Willinga Lodge
Room Only / Limited SC Accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam
1.8km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestWillinga Lodge offers guests room-only accommodation with the option of a communal kitchen for self catering in Kosmos, Hartbeespoort. Set in the secure and picturesque village of Kosmos with wonderful views of the Hartbeespoort dam. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Kosmos Manor
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam
2km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestKosmos Manor provides both bed and breakfast accommodation and self catering in Hartbeespoort in the North West province. Named after the quaint neighborhood Kosmos, Kosmos Manor bed and breakfast on the banks of the Hartebeespoort Dam consists of 6... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Atelier Isabella
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam
2.3km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestAtelier Isabella offers self catering accommodation at the Hartbeespoort Dam in the North West province. (Sleeps 8). Located in the quiet suburb of Kosmos overlooking the Hartbeespoort Dam. Relax in an artistic atmosphere where paintings enrich... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Galagos Lodge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam
2.4km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestGalagos Lodge offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Hartbeespoort in the North West province. Perfectly situated in the picturesque village of Kosmos, set against the Magaliesburg mountain range with uninterrupted views of the Hartbeespoort. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ponciana Superior Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam
2.8km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestPonciana Superior Guesthouse offers... superior bed and breakfast accommodation in Hartbeespoort in the North West Province. We are an AA Superior Qualified Assured exclusive luxury guesthouse on the top of the hill in Ifafi which gives us the most... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Fires Mountain Lodge
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam
5.2km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestFires Mountain Lodge provides self catering chalet accommodation in Hartbeespoort in the North West province. (Sleeps either 2,4 or 8 adults and children). Situated on the slopes of the Waterberg mountain range at Saartjiesnek pass... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Shangrila Innibos Country Lodge
Game Reserve And Bush Lodge Accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam
6.6km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestShangrila Innibos is surrounded by the majesty of the Magaliesberg Mountain range opposite the world famous Elephant Sanctuary and within walking distance to the Monkey Sanctuary. Hartbeespoort Dam is very popular for weekend getaways or day trips. In the …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Shangrila Innibos - Tented Camps & Camping
Caravan or Camping Accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam
6.6km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestShangrila Innibos - Tented Camps & Camping is located on the Old Rustenburg Rd (R104), in the Hartbeespoort Dam area in the North West province. Shangrila Innibos is surrounded by the majesty of the Magaliesberg Mountain range opposite the world famous... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
La Bastide Guest House
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam
10.6km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestLa Bastide Guest Cottages provide 'French country' style self catering cottages in Skeerpoort in the Hartbeespoort Dam area in the North West Province. La Bastide offers 3 'French country' style self catering cottages and 6 additional guest rooms. Each of …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Eco Retreat
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hekpoort
22.7km from Hartbeespoort Dam - Harbeespoort, North WestThe Eco Retreat is a 3 bedroomed self-catering country house (sleeps 6) located in the Hekpoort valley on Gauteng's West Rand. Nestled between the Magaliesberg and Witwatersberg mountains along the banks of the Magaliesriver. Natural bush surrounds the pr …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
- Kosmos (1.77km)
- Schoemansville (1.91km)
- Eagles Landing (2.23km)
- Hartbeespoort Dam (2.40km)
- Pecanwood Estate (2.47km)
- Melodie (2.56km)
- Meerhof (3.13km)
- Ifafi (3.17km)
- Port D' Afrique (3.75km)
- Kosmos Ridge (3.75km)
- Xanadu Eco Park (4.78km)
- Bushveld View Estate (5.39km)
- Broederstroom (5.62km)
- West Lake Country & Safari Estate (6.65km)
- Heron Cove (7.20km)
- Hartbeespoort Dam Snake and Animal Park - Hartbeespoort, North West (1.84km)
- Om die Dam Ultra Marathon - Hartbeespoort, North West (2.32km)
- Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway - Hartbeespoort, North West (3.05km)
- Magaliesberg Mountains - North West (3.66km)
- Sandy Lane Golf Club - Hartbeespoort, North West (4.14km)
- Welwitschia Country Market - Hartbeespoort, North West (4.40km)
- Chameleon Village - Hartbeespoort (4.65km)
- Upside Down House - Hartbeespoort, North West (6.33km)
- Monkey Sanctuary Hartbeespoort - North West (6.86km)
- Elephant Sanctuary Hartbeespoort - North West (6.88km)
- Magalies Park Golf Club - Hartbeespoort, North West (8.57km)
- Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre - Brits, Northern Cape (8.80km)
- Lion & Safari Park - Cradle of Humankind, North West (8.87km)
- Lesedi Cultural Village - Cradle of Humankind - Gauteng (9.31km)
- Van Gaalen Cheese Farm - Hartbeespoort Dam, North West (10.58km)
- De Wildt 4x4 Nature Park and Resort - North West (10.76km)
