Sho't Left Travel Week campaign: North West province shows off with ancient mountains, sky safaris

SPONSORED BY SA TOURISM

HEKPOORT - Sho't Left Travel Week will soon be upon us, and this year, there's a strong focus on discovering the hidden gems in the North West province.

The province is fast becoming a prime tourism destination in South Africa offering hotels, ranches, adventure activities and cultural experiences.

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As you make your through the North West, it appears like you are being followed by the majestic Magaliesberg mountain range, which seems to snake its way to every nook and cranny of the region.

The mountain range is said to be more than two billion years old, but don't be fooled - the activities available on its foothills will certainly keep you young at heart.

Saddle Creek Adventures in Hekpoort Valley is one such place, offering visitors a variety of fun experiences to keep them entertained throughout the day.

With its Texas-cowboy theme, the venue has a real ranch-like feel with paddocks filled with horses and an old wagon to top off the look.  

The horses earn their lunch by giving visitors a somewhat leisurely ride around the outskirts of the ranch - though they can break into a little bit of a gallop when nudged with your heels.

If you're up for something a bit more thrilling, there's also quad-biking and go-carting, but if you're someone who likes to keep your feet on the ground, archery and laser clay pigeon shooting are optional extras.

After a day of getting down and dusty, you should find a place to rest. One of the convenient appeals of the North West is that you won't have to go far to relax.

Still, in Hekpoort, you will find Hibon Lodge, where on arrival you will be greeted with the warmest hospitality as hostess Nicky shows you around.

The lodge offers classical and modern accommodation with a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, private parking, a fire-lit garden and a shared lounge.

All rooms come with air conditioning, and some units at the hotel even have a terrace.

Guests can enjoy African and South African cuisine at the restaurant, and breakfast is available every morning, including a buffet, à la carte and continental options.

The lodge is owned by Percy Mkhosi, who often stays over on weekends, making an effort to entertain guests in the restaurant and bar.

It has a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes it difficult to leave, with a definite yearning for more time to take it all in.

But one simply cannot leave the North West though without experiencing Bill Harrop's "Original" Hot Air Balloon Safaris.

As you float gently over the Magalies River Valley, you get to watch the sun rise before drifting higher into the aether.

With views of the Pretoria and Johannesburg city skyline from more than 3,000 metres above sea level, the experience also provides an opportunity to see the North West province's ever-present and beautiful countryside from the air.

And from way up there - while floating at the mercy of nature (and a skilled pilot) - it finally makes sense why the Magaliesberg can be seen throughout the province.

Upon landing, guests are treated to champagne mimosas before driving back to the base, where a buffet breakfast (and a certificate for bravery) awaits.

Sho't Left Travel Week starts from 2 September to 8 September this year, offering unforgettable experiences throughout the country, with deals and discounts up to 50% off.