Known affectionately as “Harties”, this resort town in North West offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural charm. The origins of Hartbeespoort are closely tied to Gen. Hendrik Schoeman, Boer leader and owner of the farm Hartbeespoort. 

He played a pivotal role in the area’s development. In 1896, Schoeman began constructing a dam wall on the Crocodile River, near the railway line that today runs to Meerhof. 

He named the project Sophia Dam, in honour of his wife. The ambitious stone-and-cement structure, later renamed Hartbeespoort Dam, cost a staggering £10,000, which was considered a fortune at the time. 

Today, Harties is a magnet for tourists, offering attractions such as the Harties Aerial Cableway, wildlife sanctuaries, and water-based activities like boating, diving, and cruises.

“There are lots of things to do when you come out to Harties – cruises on the dam, the cableway, excellent restaurants, and of course, us: the unfunded Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre,” said Nikki Stagg, marketing manager at the centre. 

Spectacular drone footage of Hartbeespoort Dam with all 10 gates open. Photo: goodthingsguy

“We’re a conservation facility working with cheetahs, wild dogs, and other endangered species. We offer daily experiences with a twist to suit every visitor.”

While the Jasmyn Farm Stall may be TripAdvisor’s top-rated attraction in Hartbeespoort, it is the Windmill Restaurant that keeps frequent travellers coming back. 

Housed inside a towering Dutch-style windmill, the restaurant offers hearty lunches beside a babbling brook, creating a tranquil setting that captures the essence of Harties hospitality.

Source: https://thecoves.co.za/history/

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh