About 14 years ago, some local artists and crafters pooled ideas to bring the public out from the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg city life into the nearby peace and tranquil surroundings of greater southern Gauteng and the northern Free State - the Vaal-area
The Vaal Meander was born as A Trip Through the Countryside. Just one hour south of Johannesburg tourists are invited to see the maestros at work plying their trade as well as visit historical and cultural sites.
It makes for a lovely day trip or for those who would prefer, a longer stay to seek out little country hideaways, quaint country inns, craft factories, outdoor adventure centres, entertainment, animals, sporting facilities, boating and upmarket country conference venues as well as a host of delightful bed and breakfast establishments and romantic wedding venues.
Some of the main attractions can be found along the Vaal River which features 56km of navigable water as well as many other water sports. Boating and yachting facilities are found on the Vaal Dam, which is fast becoming popular as a weekend getaway.
Accommodation
Whilst in the Vaal Meander region, why not stay over and experience the many different types of wonderful accommodation:
Vereeniging
Vanderbijlpark
Parys
Deneysville
Heidelberg - Gauteng
Adventure
Join an adventure at one of the fabulous venues which offer many exciting activities such as white water rafting, canoeing, abseiling, rock climbing, conferencing and team building, clay pigeon shooting, quad-bike nature drives, game drives, paintball, hiking, bird watching, horse riding, deepwater fishing, star gazing, walks and more.
Arts & Crafts
Join in the experience of visiting various Arts & Craft venues, travelling North to South or vice versa on your day outing off the R59 from Johannesburg to the Vaal Meander Region. You will find a variety of interesting venues which offer gifts, craft supplies, workshops for stained glass, mosaic and painting. Also on offer are meals including country breakfasts, light lunches and various blends of coffees and scrumptious home baked cakes.
Heritage Sites
Discover more unique art works in and around the heritage sites of this diverse and historical region. Book a specific tour and leave your car in safety at the Museum or discover for yourself - the Redan rock engravings, the Peace Monument, the venue of the signing of the treaty between the Anglo Boers and the British at the end of the world war two and the memorial site where the struggle for equality and peace began in Sharpeville in 1960.
Also visit the artists at work in the city centre before travelling out towards Vanderbijlpark to discover more artists at their homes.
Boating
Experience the tranquil Vaal River or Vaal Dam. Boat Cruises, Lunches, Dinner, Bed and Breakfast. Boats and sporting equipment may be hired for an action packed day! Bookings are essential to ensure that your specially planned route is successful and enjoyable.
Wine Route
A romantic Vaal River Meander only 45 minutes from Johannesburg through charming river and country venues where you can savour tastings from top wine makers, including:- Nederburg, Rietvallei, Zonnebloem, Glen Carlou, Boland Kelder, Spier, Fleur du Cap & Robertson Winery.
Treat yourselves to breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of these 13 river and country estates while you sample the wines. The Wine Route takes place annually around July/August.
Contact
The Vaal Meander is also a tourist information centre to the Vaal region.
Tel: +27 16 423 2631
Three Rivers
South Africa
