News / 20 September 2022
Places to holiday this Heritage Day
Whether you celebrate September 24th as Heritage Day, Shaka Day or National Braai Day, it offers us an opportunity to embrace our country’s rich culture and beauty.
It’s also a day for us to do what we locals do best – braai.
Since South Africans also love a good getaway (and can braai just about anywhere!), here are our favourite spots to grease the grill:
The Elephant Coast, KwaZulu Natal
Located within the northern reaches of KwaZulu Natal, this less-explored region offers a little bit of everything: shimmering lakes, rolling hills, and game-rich reserves, you name it. If you’re up for a self-drive, you'll discover plenty of designated braai spots along the way. Not in the mood to cook? Catch the ferry across False Bay and check in at Nibela Lake Lodge.
The Garden Route, Western Cape
Aside from plenty of padstals and curio shops, South Africa’s acclaimed Garden Route also boasts its fair share of local braai spots. Try the built-in braais right on the beach at Victoria Bay, or on Leisure Island in Knysna. For us, it's the idyllic sea-facing setting of Coney Glen which takes the top spot since you can watch the boats come and go as you ‘tjop en dop’.
Tala Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal
With access to braai facilities and an outdoor pool, Tala ticks all the right boxes for a Heritage Day braai with friends and family. If you’re based in KwaZulu Natal, pack the snacks and shisha nyama, then hop in the car. The day rate cost is R80.00 per adult, R50.00 per child, and R80.00 per vehicle.
Silvermine Nature Reserve, Western Cape
With braai areas peppered all around the reservoir, Silvermine is arguably one of the most soul-stirring spots in the Western Cape to light up the braai this Heritage Day. Located in Table Mountain National Park, it’s easy to reach and ideal for local families looking to head outdoors.
Gariep Dam Nature Reserve
If you’re travelling between Joburg and Cape Town, this is the overnight braai stop of your travel dreams. Some say the Gariep Dam is the most beautiful dam in South Africa, and we couldn’t agree more. Not only is it the biggest dam in the country, but it also supports a healthy population of springbok.
Finfoot Lake Reserve
Ready to escape the grind this Heritage Day? Make a beeline for Finfoot, just a 90-minute drive from Joburg and Pretoria. It offers a range of family-friendly activities such as 4x4 game drives, barge cruises, and guided segway safaris. What we love most is the outdoor boma, where you can sip sundowners and scooch in close to the fire with loved ones.
