Situated in the Fountains Valley, Groenkloof is a stone’s throw from Pretoria, just 5km south of the city. Paul Kruger established the area as a reserve back in 1895 to protect the area, particularly the shy oribi, from hunters and in so doing, established South Africa’s first nature sanctuary. Now, Groenkloof is the ideal outdoor and nature-lover’s getaway. From a variety of dedicated mountain bike, horse, 4x4 and hiking trails to an abundance of wildlife, there is something for the whole family. The reserve has become popular with mountain biking events, with each trail offering varying degrees of difficulty. Overnight hikes or guided horsetrails are a great way to experience the reserve. Impala, kudu, blue wildebeest, ostrich, giraffe, red hartebeest and sable, are just some of the wildlife that call the reserve home, not to mentiong the abundance of birdlife on offer. The famous Moyo restaurant is situated in the reserve and there are overnight facilities for visitors to make the most of their stay. The Fountains Valley of Pretoria, home to the Groenkloof Nature Reserve, has long captured the imagination of those who visit the area. After fleeing from King Shaka in the early 1820s, Zulu general Mzilikazi decided to make the area his home, settling at Meintjieskop and having his impis (regiments) build two cities nearby. Paul Kruger, fifth president of the South African Republic, also recognised the promise of the valley. In 1895, he proclaimed the Groenkloof Nature Reserve to protect the oribi and herds of game in the area from over-zealous hunters, in the process establishing the first known nature sanctuary in Africa. Why not visit this place during your stay at Hartbeespoort Eco Lodge & Boutique Backpackers? https://facebook/FriendsofGroenkloofNatureReserve?ref=ts&fref=ts
Posted on: Tue, 25 Jun 2013 06:58:44 +0000
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