Hidden gems of NW: Why the platinum province should be next on your bucket list

As the weather starts to warm up, it is the perfect time to look at getting out of the city for a quick break.

In addition to being the platinum mining hub of the country, the North West is also rife with hidden gems that make it the perfect travel destination.

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Whether you are looking to get your blood pumping with some exciting activities, or relax and take in the breathtaking views, there is something for everyone.

With Sho’t Left’s Great African Sale from 2-8 September, there is no better time to book your next adventure.

For the adventurers

Sail through the treelines with Magaliesberg Canopy Tour

If you are torn between thrill seeking and sightseeing, the Magaliesberg Canopy Tour is the perfect place to be.

Feel the wind on your face and connect with your country by zip lining through an ancient mountain range filled with natural wonders.

The Magaliesberg Canopy Tour features 10 zip lines of varying lengths and speeds that are guaranteed to get your heart rate up.

If you do decide to go, make sure you wear comfortable shoes as there is a bit of a walk to get back from the tour, but it is definitely worth the effort.

Explore all North West terrains with Leeto Experience

With the Leeto Experience off road Jeep excursions, you can see parts of the province you could never normally reach.

The daring drivers seem to defy the laws of physics when they take you up the most impossible paths for a mind-blowing off-road experience.

They offer far more than just their off-road experience, including breathtaking boat cruises on the Hartbeespoort dam.

Hop on one of their speed boats and take in the sights of some of the natural wonders of our beautiful country.

Something for everyone at Saddle Creek

From horse riding to quad biking to archery and more, Saddle Creek is a one stop shop for your adventuring needs.

The quad bikes are not far the faint of heart, and your adrenaline will definitely be up on the trail.

That being said, the guides make sure you are perfectly safe and have a great feel for the group and how much you can handle.

If you prefer your adrenaline levels safe and low, the guided horse trail is an incredible way to see the sights and feel refreshed and connected to nature.

For those wanting to disconnect

Take in the sights at the Aerial Cableway at Hartbeespoort

The Cableway in Hartbeespoort is an experience not to be missed.

Take a slow ride to the top of the Magaliesberg mountain range where you can take a slow hike, have a bite to eat and take in the sights.

The cableway is open in all weather conditions and has a Sky Park at the top for all the adventurers.

Disconnect and transport yourself at Excalibur restaurant

Jump through time and space for a medieval castle lunch for a real hidden gem.

Excalibur Avalon Hotel and Restaurant will let you live all your medieval fantasies, down to renaissance style clothes for hire.

To really dive into the experience, you can choose to take their ‘Disconnect to Reconnect challenge.’

If your entire table agrees to place their phone in a locked box on the table, and no one uses it for the entire meal, you will get a 10% discount on your bill.

Float away with Bill Harrop's Hot air balloon 

If you are an early riser, 6am is the perfect time to rise above the province with Bill Harrop's Original Balloon Safaris.

Bill Harrop's was the first hot air balloon safari in Africa, and offer a bucket list worth experience.

The sights are breathtaking and show you a perspective of the province that you cannot get on the ground.

For those looking to stay a while

Connect with your roots at Kareespruit Lodge

Kareespruit Lodge offers some of the best sights of Zeerust and will help you connect with your roots and your country.

When taking a walk on their grounds, you feel the distance from the city and centuries of history pulsing through the earth.

Enjoy some home style food by the fire illuminated by the night skies for a truly restful experience.

Escape from the world at Anew Resort Hunters Rest

When you walk into Anew Resort you are instantly transported to a world of quiet luxury.

Enjoy a relaxing massage at their incredible spa, a round of golf on their beautiful course, or relax and take in the views at the pool.

Your whole luxury experience is framed by the breathtaking Magaliesberg mountains.

Be welcomed into the rustic luxury of Hibon Lodge

Hibon means ‘born of the highest God’ and every person there, from the owners to the staff on the ground treat it as such.

The views of the Magaliesberg mountain range are breathtaking and the resort’s authentic hospitality hits you the second you step out of the car.

Everything from your welcome at reception to the plating of your food is a clear labour of love.

Enjoy a hearty meal by a roaring fireplace, an open-air workout overlooking their catch and release dam, or a round of pool in their cosy games room.