Magalies Barbus Haven at Happy Acres corner actually gained from the flood. The rocky
pools that had been silted up were flushed clean and are once again lovely fishing
spots. Not only is the river fishing for bass now very fine, but the trout dam was
not affected by the flood. Wayne rents out trout fishing equipment and runs fly-fishing
clinics, but it is crucial to book, particularly for weekends. Bookings can be done
by calling Wayne on 083 414 0391.
By contrast, severe damage was done to Lovers Rock Holiday resort where the Magalies
Rivers heads towards Hekpoort. The gate is often closed and phones aren't regularly
answered, yet the resort did host the yearly Vintage Car Show in February. For an
alternative picnic locale, try Magalies Sleepy River, which is busier since the flood
hit Lovers Rock. Magalies Sleepy River boasts a tranquil riverside setting with a
swimming pool and braai infrastructure for use by campers and day trippers. Public
holiday visits need to be booked by phoning 014 577 1524. For directions available
on the web just Google Magaliesburg sleepyrivers.co.za.
The restaurant and buildings on the upper levels of Goblins Cove Fantasy Restaurant
avoided real harm by being situated on high ground. The playground and vicinity below
the restaurant were touched by the rising river waters. Although one dining area
appears to have been closed, the majority of the public area has not been damaged.
Many people flock to the restaurant for booked lunches from Wednesday to Sunday and
on public holidays. A multiple course Sunday lunch is served by scurrying waiters
who serve dining guests hidden away in the many themed tiny rooms throughout the
restaurant as well as those seated outside on the terrace. Some people don't book
lunch and simply go there to walk in the goblin themed gardens. It is sometimes possible
to get a table on the terrace or near the children's playground for drinks.
Various sculptures and artworks by the original owner, Charles Gotthard-Jacobs are
still intact in the garden. The area around the fairy shop next to the restaurant
is also fairy themed for children's enjoyment. In that area children paint plaster
plaques with fairy themes. The cost is R60 per plaque. They are assisted in this
by an attendant. While parents relax on the terrace, little ones play contentedly
in the sheltered sandpit. A short distance downhill in a woodland area lies the riverside
pole jungle-gym, which has been well washed by the recent rains. Visitors are likely
to be so enchanted by the clutter of art that they misjudge the steep steps, irregular
flooring, slippery pathways and exposed tree roots. Lunch can be booked at 086 631
7156.
These are just a few of the Magaliesburg attractions. We regularly send spa clients
to Melon Rouge tea garden for lunches after their spa treatments. We also send them
to the Goods Shed next to Magaliesburg Station to enjoy a little creative art therapy
while dipping candles. Visitors staying in Magaliesburg accommodation have a wide
range of activities to choose from on the Magalies Meander, which now includes Hartebeespoort
Dam, Rustenburg and the UNESCO Cradle of Humankind.
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