Rietpan Guest Farm and Hiking Trails

Carolina, Mpumalanga

 

Rietpan has a long history. Originally built by Commandant Mostert in 1913 when it was certainly one of the grandest farmhouses in Carolina district. Jan Smuts was a frequent visitor and the spaciousness and awe of this homely farmhouse is similar to what it must have been like almost 100 years ago. The farm consists of 2500ha of mainly grassland on which 6000 Marino sheep spend their seemingly contented life consuming their natural pastureland. There are also 3 large pans that play host to numerous species of water birds.

         
 

All bedding is supplied and guest can either do their own catering or arrange meals in the true country tradition, cooked with loving care by Isabel, the farmers wife.

Isabel also teaches Batik and examples of her work are to be seen around the farmhouse.

  
 
         
 
  There are three hiking trails on the farm with distances of 9km, 7km and 3½. The longer trail stretches down to the river. The area is richly endowed with a wide variety of grasses.

The birdlife, especially the water birds, is incredible.

As an alternative to walking, horse riding is also offered along with mountain biking.

A fofie slide across the river is also a popular attraction.

  

Conclusion

Rietpan has something to offer for everyone and even in winter times, the old iron stove in the kitchen  offers its cloak of warmth to the guests. Walk the hiking paths, ride the well schooled horses or just relax with a book in the comfort of the old farmhouse.

'In a Nutshell'

Distance from nearest town About 280km from Gauteng
Access road status The access road is gravel but is generally kept in good repair
Trail type Day walks from the farmhouse
Difficulty Easy to moderate
Marking The trails are marked and the farmer explains the route
GPS Co-ordinates Rietpan Farmhouse  S26 00.958 E29 58.472

Turnoff to Rietpan - S26 00.343 E29 58.468
Cell phone reception No
Facilities Excellent facilities. Ideal for the whole family

 

Bookings and contact numbers

Jacana Travel Marketing and Reservations

Telephone  0861Jacana (0861 522262)

Direct phone: Port Elizabeth 041 378 1439

Pretoria: 012 803 9109

Direct fax: PE 041 378 2548

Pretoria: 012 803 4144

 PE e-mail  bookings@jacanacollection.co.za

Pretoria e-mail: rosa@jacanacollection.co.za

 

 Footprint Hiking Club

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