Hartbeespoort

Hartbeespoort, or “Harties” as it’s colloquially and affectionately known by locals, is a small resort town on the banks of the Hartbeespoort Dam, surrounded by the majestic Magaliesberg mountains. While the town itself comprises of the smaller villages of Meerhof, Ifafi, Kosmos, Melodie and Schoemansville, the uncontested main attraction of the area is, of course, the Harties Dam.

Constructed in 1923, the dam’s main use is to supply irrigation water to the nearby farmlands, although given the beauty and natural offerings of the area, Harties dam has long since become the adventure hub, soul-restoring resort for many. 

With its close proximity to Johannesburg and Pretoria (just a 45-minute drive), the town is a popular holiday and weekend getaway destination for couples, groups of friends, and families with young kids.

Harties has almost year-round sunshine and while day-time winter temperatures average a warm 19ºC, it’s best to visit during the summer season (December to March) to really take advantage of all the water sports on offer. 

Choose to relax and take in the scenery during your visit, or plan an adventure-packed holiday with activities like river rafting, abseiling, quad biking and windsurfing.