Sable Ranch Hiking Trail

Hekpoort, Gauteng

Sable Ranch is situated just off the R96 close to Hekpoort in the Magaliesburg mountain region. Being only 70km away from Johannesburg, this trail is an easy escape for the entire family to enjoy a day out in nature. It is open on weekends and public holidays.

There are several species of game to view including Sable, Blesbok, Wildebeest, Springbok, Impala, as well as dassies, duikers, baboons, and bush pigs. 150 types of birds are said to be found in the area, as well as 650 different plant species. A lovely setting for a family outing.

This trail is open on 7 days a week and public holidays, and showcases the countryside just outside Hekpoort, which lies on the slopes of the breath-taking Magaliesburg Mountain. They have a 5km, 8km, 10km and a 12km.

The first part of the trail is a beautiful stone paved road which then becomes a wide scraped trail of loose rock and sand. The trail begins with a steady uphill, around 2.5km, which gives the calves a great workout. The rocks are pretty loose and slippery throughout the trail, and one needs to keep an eye on your steps to avoid slipping and falling.

The trail evens out once you reach the plateau. Here we were able to view the game feeding points and we were enthralled by the amount of game we were able to watch and photograph in close proximity – so beautiful and special! There are hides you can watch from, but we found them unnecessary as the game was obviously used to being observed.

The picnic area is a beautiful shady spot with fresh, running mountain water to refill bottles, as well as a braai and seating area. After stopping to rest we took the Dam trail and then hiked the Sable Road – a hefty incline almost had me 4×4’ing up the hill. The trail then wanders back down to the starting point.

Accommodation:

Sable Ranch

Set in Magaliesburg in the North West region, Sable Ranch Hiking & Overnight Accommodation offers self-catering accommodation. This is perfect for a couple to come and relax for a weekend, very romantic and perfect for the quick getaway. There is a fully equipped private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. The Ranch only takes 2 couples, so this is a very exclusive private getaway guesthouse. Guests can swim in the outdoor swimming pool, go hiking or relax in the garden and watch the beautiful nature.

Cradle of Human Kind – Museum is 20 km from the aparthotel, varies activities to do in the Magaliesburg area to keep yourself busy, while Tarlton International Raceway is 33 km from the property. The nearest airport is Lanseria International Airport, 55 km from Sable Ranch Hiking & Overnight Accommodation.

Riverdance

River Dance is a blissful countryside retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This is the perfect accommodation for a family or group of friends. The property has a capacity to take 18 guests Nestled amidst the majestic Magaliesburg Mountains, the guesthouse offers a charming blend of classic style, elegant luxury and natural serenity.Trade crowded city skylines for sweeping views of the serene Magaliesburg countryside.

Escape traffic jams and meander along walkways lined with wild lavender bushes. Leave work deadlines behind and step back in time at the nearby Cradle of Humankind. Then return to the guesthouse to recharge in opulent comfort. This accommodation is a soothing balm for city living blues with a selection of nature-inspired treatments. Well-appointed rooms offer views over the lush gardens, as swimming pool and boma is available for you.

There is a double bed, en-suite bathroom, coffee facilities, a small fridge and mivrowave. Linen, towels and cutlery are provided. Outside each unit its own private patio with braai facilities and a communal swimming pool.

Conclusion

This trail is highly recommended for a family with children. It is an easy hike, although steep in parts, only low-level fitness is required. The children will love getting up close to the ample game that abounds. Trail runners will definitely benefit from the steep climbs.

There are several species of game to view including Sable, Blesbok, Wildebeest, Springbok, Impala, as well as dassies, duikers, baboons and bush pigs. 150 types of birds are said to be found in the area, as well as 650 different plant species. A lovely setting for a family outing.