Where to go with your free 200KMs
2012-04-30 10:15
When you rent a car, there is usually the "200 Km free a day" tag line. Pretty clever seeing as you will probably not be using more than that per day anyway, right?
Well why not put us to the test! If you are feeling the need to get your drive on and not waste these extra rental K's, why not pay these spots a visit. Some are well known, others aren't, but none are more than a 100 KMs from the specific city's CBD, so that you can get there and back with no added charge!
Cape Town
Unusual Site: Goat tower - Fairview cheese and wine farm (70 Kms from CBD)
Image by fairview.co.za
The Goat Tower is one of the most recognisable features of the Cape winelands. It was built by current Fairview owner Charles Back, in 1981. The tower was inspired by a structure that his parents had seen in Portugal during a holiday trip a few years earlier and today is the plaything of over 800 goats on the farm!
fairview.co.za
Scenic Drive: Chapman's Peak (25 Kms from CBD)
Image by chapmanspeakdrive.co.za
Chapman's Peak Drive winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. Situated on the Atlantic Coast, at the south-western tip of South Africa, it is one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world. It's 9k's of beautiful views and perfect picnic spots.
chapmanspeakdrive.co.za
Heritage Site: Taal Monument (65 Kms from CBD)
Image by boereafrikana.com
In 1975, the Taal monument was unveiled, as a dedication to the Afrikaans language. Although some say it resembles something that would require a below the belt pun, it is actually a thoughtful homage to the three continents and the collection of languages that shaped Afrikaans. The setting also offers panoramic views of the Cape peninsula and Overberg beyond.
taalmuseum.co.za
Padkos possie: Drakenstein Prison Restaurant (65 Kms from CBD)
Image by article.wn.com
Ready for a captivating dining experience? Well then, hit up Drakenstein A La Carte in Paarl. This restaurant offers prices at a steal, in more ways than one. The extremely popular restaurant is in an actual prison (Victor Verster). You are even served by the inmates themselves! As part of their rehabilitation the ‘waiters' are trained in hospitality, but don't handle the cash themselves. Be sure to book in advance.
Groot Drakenstein
Johannesburg
Unusual Site: Museum of man and science (0 Kms from CBD)
Image by flickr.com
Imagine waking up one morning, and thinking, "Oh dear my muti is klaar!" Not a problem, go on down to Johannesburg's Museum of Man and Science that sells supplies in plain view of the busy CBD. If you need more than just a view ingredients, the izangoma is very happy to throw the bones for you in the back room. Bonus! No need for a long drive.
(011) 836 4470
Scenic Drive: Cradle of Humankind (About 50 Kms from CBD)
Image by maropeng.co.za
The Cradle of Humankind is a 47 000 hectare destination with a rich and fascinating history told to us through the ancient fossils that have been found there. With over 400 attractions, including the Sterkfontein caves and Maropeng, but also countless restaurants, art and craft outlets, lodges, wildlife facilities and places of historical interest, it is perfect for an afternoon drive.
cradleofhumankind.co.za
Heritage Site: Soweto Tour (23 Kms from CBD).
Image by soweto.co.za
Soweto is synonymous with the struggle for freedom in South Africa, but many locals have never visited this vibrant, culturally rich township situated on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Within Soweto you can see the Hector Petersen Memorial, Regina Mundi Church, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Mandela House and Freedom Square - all pivotal sites in shaping some of the key players who would fight for of celebrated constitution.
soweto.co.za
Padkos possie: Goblin's Cove (60 Kms from CBD)
Image by the goblinscove.co.za
Goblin's Cove Fantasy Restaurant in the Magaliesburg is adorned with stately sculptures and artwork that will make you think you are Peter Pan! With fairies and sculptures in every corner outside in the Fairy Grove, it is a magical place for kids. There are giant puppets, plate painting and lots of childhood fantasies to live out!
thegoblinscove.co.za
Durban
Unusual Site: Shark's Board visit (20 Kms from the CBD)
Image by mickclarke.co.uk
The Sharks Board welcomes and encourages visitors to its complex in Umhlanga Rocks where they can view a 25 minute audio visual presentation on the day to day work done by the Sharks Board as well as the important role sharks and other animals play in the marine ecosystem. What is so unusual about this? The talk is followed by a 20 minute dissection of a shark. Not for the faint of heart!
shark.co.za
Scenic Drive: Valley of a 1000 hills (About 50 Kms from the CBD)
Image by summitconference.biz
The breathtaking Valley of a Thousand Hills is named after the thousands of hills that tumble down to the mighty Umgeni River as it makes its way from the Drakensberg to the Indian Ocean.Needless to say this makes for some memorable scenery. Only half an hour's drive from Durban's CBD, the hills have wining and dining, nature exploring and cultural experiences a plenty.
kzn.org.za
Heritage Site: Shakaland (160 Km from CBD).
Image by shakaland.com
Although a bit commercialized, Shakaland is built on the set of Shaka Zulu and John Ross, which were big media exports for South Africa back in the day. It is an authentic re-creation of Shaka Zulu's kraal, and it allows you to witness the everyday existence this great warrior experienced when he was conquering Zululand tribe by tribe. So spend one day's free Ks getting there, spend a night or two enjoying their interactive program, before spending the next day's free Ks getting back.
shakaland.com
Padkos possie: Allen Gardiner Harbour Cruise (5 Kms from the CBD)
Image by allangardiner.co.za
Sailing year round, the Allen Gardiner Harbour Cruise Restaurant cruises the calm waters of Durban Harbour during which freshly-prepared meals are served. Although the harbour is the busiest port in the Southern Hemisphere it is also a place of unexpected natural surprises like mangrove swamps and abundant wildlife in a protected conservation habitat. Bonus! No driving required.
allengardiner.co.za
With so many things to do and with so many kilometres to spare, you really have no need to let those 200 free ones go to squander!
