Stunning Views Over South Africa
Mariepskop
One of the most scenic routes you can take near Hoedspruit is the road to Mariepskop! Standing at 1,945 meters, Mariepskop is the highest lookout point of the Blyde River Canyon. This hidden gem is known to few, and the route takes you through the heart of the Blyde River Canyon to a beautiful picnic spot right by the Blyde River. You can easily visit the top of Mariepskop, including a picnic, within a day. From the highest point, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Kruger Park, Phalaborwa, and even the Indian Ocean (Mozambique) on a clear day.
For the adventurous, you can also tackle the climb by mountain bike. Starting from the villa, the MTB route takes you through Hoedspruit and 28 km alongside the railway. Then, the real challenge begins: a technical climb from 500 meters to 1,900 meters over a 25 km stretch. The route is a mix of gravel, stones, and ends with a rough concrete section for the final 5 km. This last stretch features an average gradient of 17%, with peaks reaching up to 30%.
A true test of endurance for the "die-hards"!