By Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe

As South Africans, we are lucky to call such a beautiful country home. No matter where you turn, there is natural beauty all around, from rolling mountains to wide open skies and sunshine that lifts the spirit. It’s the kind of everyday magic that keeps us grounded and connected to the land we live on.

Taking a break from Johannesburg, or any big city, and heading out for a short escape to nearby small towns can do wonders for the mind, body, and soul. Within just an hour or two’s drive, you’ll find yourself breathing in fresh air, seeing things from a new perspective, and all without needing to make major plans. It can be as simple as a morning drive to xplore a nearby town and then heading back home by evening, feeling refreshed and content.

That’s exactly what my colleagues and I did recently. On a sunny Monday morning, we hit the road to Klerksdorp in the North West. Ours was more of a business trip, meeting inspiring people who are making bold moves in the agricultural value chain, but the drive itself reminded us just how rewarding these quick getaways can be.

Attractions
Klerksdorp may not be widely marketed as a tourist destination, and you’re unlikely to find flashy brochures promoting it, but that’s what makes it such a gem. Known mainly for its mining and agricultural roots, the town surprises visitors with its charm and variety of experiences.

Once you arrive, you’ll quickly notice how warm and welcoming the locals are. And don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a sleepy stopover. Klerksdorp is a fully developed town with all the comforts of a modern city from shopping malls, restaurants, a wide variety of bed and breakfasts, and unique local attractions. It’s the kind of place that rewards the curious traveller who’s keen to xplore beyond the usual routes.

These attractions include the Klerksdorp Museum, housed in a former prison dating
back to 1891. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s cultural and historical heritage and visitors can xplore diverse exhibitions, including displays on the Anglo- Boer War, pioneer life, and Khoisan rock art, providing insight into the area’s rich past.

Goudkoppie Heritage Hill is another treasure of Klerksdorp worth visiting. Located
alongside the N12 Treasure Route, Goudkoppie Heritage Hill is a provincial heritage site that showcases a replica Iron Age village, original Khoisan rock art, and remnants from the Anglo-Boer War era. The site provides a connection to the area’s historical and cultural narratives.

For fresh air, there is the Faan Meintjes Nature Reserve that is outside Klerksdorp. This 1 200-hectare reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts and is characterised by rolling hills, open grasslands, and acacia trees. It offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and serene walks amidst the savannah biome.

The Ride
Our ride for the trip was the new Corolla Cross Hybrid. With plenty of space for a family of four, it was the ideal choice for the three of us to travel in comfort and style while soaking up the natural beauty of the countryside. The cabin is light, airy and thoughtfully designed, creating a welcoming space for long drives. Out on the road, especially along the M1 and N12 freeways, it offered smooth handling and a remarkably quiet drive, making the journey relaxing from start to finish.

While it’s known as an urban cruiser, it handled uneven road surfaces and the occasional pothole with ease, showing off its versatility. Blending technology, safety and convenience, the Corolla Cross Hybrid features Lane Keeping Assist, a Pre-Crash System and Blind Spot Monitoring, all of which gave us extra peace of mind throughout the trip. As we enjoyed the drive and the old-school R&B that became our trip’s soundtrack, I took my eyes off the speed limit, we were stopped and I got a fine for speeding.

Blending technology, safety and convenience, the Corolla Cross Hybrid features Lane Keeping Assist, a Pre-Crash System and Blind Spot Monitoring, all of which gave us extra peace of mind throughout the trip. As we enjoyed the drive and the old-school R&B that became our trip’s soundtrack, I took my eyes off the speed limit, we were stopped and I got a fine for speeding.

Overall Experience
After a relaxed two and a half hour drive from Johannesburg, we arrived in Klerksdorp, with our first stop being Senwes on the outskirts of town, followed by another one at Santam. Following our meetings, we were keen to find some fresh local produce at great prices. Rather than heading to the shopping malls, we sought out small, independent shops selling farm-fresh goods — and we were not disappointed. We bagged a few bargains, took some time to unwind, xplored the heart of the town, and soon felt ready for our drive back to Johannesburg. The warm hospitality of Klerksdorp left a lasting impression, and we returned to the city’s fast pace feeling recharged and inspired. Trips to nearby small towns like Klerksdorp are a reminder of how much there is to xplore, right on our doorstep.