A view from the top

This past weekend we took the aerial cableway to the top of Hartsbeespoort for a view of South Africa like no other.  After a 45 minute drive from where we live in Pretoria we loaded up into the gondolas to ride to the top.  I was quite surprised by how updated and new the entire place looked.  After being originally constructed in 1973 and shutting down for 5 years before re-opening in 2010, it was neat to see the new gondolas compared to the old ones which looked like a ride from World's of Fun.

A steep 15 minute ride up the mountain provided a great view.  It was amazing how much the view looked like anywhere else in the world, except for the beautiful purple Jacaranda trees dressing up the landscape.

View looking at the top

View looking down

Adalyn was most interested in watching the other gondolas go by. 

Once at the top we enjoyed a nice trail walk with our friends the Hartzs.  The 360 degree view was spectacular.  

The trail had interest points along the way pointing out areas in the distance and since the sky was clear we could pretty much see them all. 

Complete with a playground and bounce house, there was plenty to entertain the kids who might not have enjoyed the view as much as the adults.   

After some fun we visited the gift shop then sat down for lunch with friends.  If you like hamburgers drenched in sweet chili sauce, then you must visit this place as I think ours were swimming in it.  But like most South African dishes I find, the sauce seems to be very important and either I need to get used to it or order it on the side.  Either way, with full bellies we headed back down the mountain and enjoyed the view along the way. 

It was a nice morning spent discovering another aspect of Africa.  We look forward to going back again as the area has much to offer.