So, after you’ve mastered the tongue-twisting headline of my article, sit back and enjoy a day’s meandering with me in my alluring hometown of Pretoria.
Situated in the northeast of South Africa, Pretoria is home to the executive seat of government and its capital. It is often referred to as the Jacaranda City since its streets are lined with thousands of Jacaranda trees imported from Brazil. During the spring and summer times, when the Jacarandas are in full bloom, the city is transformed into a magical kingdom whose avenues are carpeted with fragrant and breathtakingly beautiful lavender coloured blossoms. This is my absolute favourite time of the year! When everything is reawakening and re-energizing. I can think of no better feeling to put a spring in my step as we suddenly awaken from a gloomy winter, refreshed and ready to emerge from our cold and dreary hibernation.
Pretoria has a plethora of things to do and see. Its rich history has afforded it much popularity and there are a good many monuments and museums to visit. But it is also very laid-back compared to the much faster paced Johannesburg, and yet the two cities are only 55km apart. One of the many things I love about this incredibly versatile metropolis is that you can have the best of both worlds in terms of living the city life and escaping to the countryside.
Here are some of the highlights of things to see:
- VOORTREKKER MONUMENT
A National Heritage site and the most visited museum in South Africa, the Voortrekker Monument sits tall and proud on a hilltop overlooking the city. Built in 1949 as a tribute to the Boers (Farmers) who ventured into unknown territory in the mid 19th century. Statues of Pretoria’s namesake, Andries Pretorius along with other iconic figures in the Settlers’ history of the Great Trek are depicted in marble reliefs within the Monuments walls. Each year on the 16th December, the Day of Reconciliation, a ray of light illuminates a cenotaph through an opening in the dome which reads: “Ons vir jou Suid Afrika” (meaning “ We are for you, South Africa”). Once you have toured the inside, be sure to head up to the roof to catch a breathtaking view of the city. After “trekking” your way back down, the restaurant is a great option to quench your thirst and satisfy your rumbling tummy.
- NATIONAL ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS OF SOUTH AFRICA
Our National Zoo is proudly ranked among the top ten largest zoo’s in the world. Founded in 1899, it spreads across 85 hectares with the aptly named Apies River (Monkey River) flowing through it. I spent many of my childhood days visiting the zoo with my family and having the most wonderful picnics nestled amongst its prestine beauty. To this day, I still enjoy visiting with my own children, basking on the emerald green grass and being amused by the many different animal and bird species in its enclosures. Ah yes, to be a kid again slows down the ageing process tenfold. The zoo has plenty of little kiosks selling food and drinks as well as a sit down (or take out) restaurant. It also has the only inland aquarium in the country that has sharks and several species of fish. Definitely worth spending a relaxing day here.
- UNION BUILDINGS
Built in 1913 and designed by Sir Herbert Baker in not one, but three period styles, namely Cape Dutch, Italian Renaissance and English Renaissance, the Union Buildings is the official seat of parliament and sits on the highest point in the city, Meintjieskop Hill. Its lush exotic gardens cascade down to Stanza Bopape Street (previously called Church Street), the longest linear street in the world. I’ve spent many a Sunday afternoon here soaking up the sun and people watching as wedding parties arrive to take pictures in the resplendent gardens. Now, in addition to statues of former South African political figures and commemorations of fallen WW soldiers, stands a towering 9m figure of Nelson Mandela watching over his people still. Indeed a sight to behold!
Pretoria, I must say, even if from a biased perspective, has managed quite well to retain its country lifestyle and identity. Much of this is visible in its rustic architecture, its homely restaurants and traditional menus but with a twist of modern sophistication. My favourite past time on a weekend is to discover these little treasures tucked away in the most unassuming of locations.
Two such places are the Blue Crane Restaurant situated within the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary right in the heart of Pretoria’s diplomatic hub, Brooklyn. The sanctuary is every birder’s haven and is set amid lush greenery. The decked terraces ensure an all round view and you might even spot the national bird of South Africa, the Blue Crane. The menu is simple but tasteful and an added bonus that has cropped up in recent months is the Vula Food Shack, which boasts a delicious array of organically sourced produce and more.
Another little jewel is called Lientjie At Queen’s Cottage in Cullinan, a town situated on the famous diamond route and about thirty minutes out of the city. Queen’s Cottage is actually home to artist and chef, Lientjie Wessels and she hosts a monthly fine dining experience in the garden of her home which was once the home of the railway master of Cullinan. Enjoy this culinary experience amidst a Colonial setting which will leave you talking about it for days. Sunday lunch is by appointment only and although there is no website, Lientjie may be contacted via telephone or email on +27 82 531 6141 or lientjiefoodart@gmail.com
When it comes to nightlife Pretoria most certainly has no shortage of bars and clubs. It is no secret that South Africans love a good drink and party. From the student area of Hatfield to the more upmarket Menlyn Maine where you will find the latest hotspots at Sun International’s Time Square Casino. This trendy entertainment centre offer you a mix of bars, pubs, restaurants and nightclubs all under one roof.
Pretoria also has an impressive collection of hotels and guesthouses and thanks to the recent (or not so recent) Soccer (or as my husband would prefer to call it, Football) World Cup which was hosted in 2010, the guesthouses are of impeccable standard and quality, so, if you’re looking for a home away from home, why not opt for one of the many all over the city. Centurion is a popular choice to stay and here you will find the ultimate in luxury in accommodation such as the Royal Elephant Hotel & Spa and the Leriba Lodge with a renowned restaurant as well.
Tips & Hints:
- Not all areas in Pretoria are safe. Stay alert if you are venturing into the central part of town and ensure that all valuables are well out of sight. Avoid this area at night.
- Transportation is easily available in the form of Uber (a more reliable option) or private cabs. If you’re confident enough to drive, opt to hire a car instead. The Gautrain rail service is a fantastic option if you want to spend a day in Sandton or Rosebank. www.gautrain.co.za
- Great shopping centres can be found all around the city. Some of the more popular ones are Menlyn Shopping Centre, Centurion Mall and Irene Mall with plenty of stores ranging from the branded couture to more affordable options.
This amazing city is pretty much overlooked when it comes to cosmopolitan attractions and trendy holiday spots, but it is truly worth spending a few days to discover its unique qualities and attractions. So next time, if you’re on business in Johannesburg or just passing through the O.R. Tambo International airport, why not take a few days to explore The Jacaranda City and see for yourself.