Modimolle (Nylstroom) |
||
|
Modimolle,
with its streets shaded by poinciana and jacaranda trees, is the commercial
centre of the Bushveld region. Modimolle is famous for exporting grapes
and other soft fruits such as peaches. But the area is particularly
well known for its wide range of outdoor recreation, and is only a one
and a half hour drive from Johannesburg. The
town of Modimolle was formerly known as Nylstroom. Voortrekkers found
a river flowing northwards in 1886, and when checking the maps on the
back of their family Bibles decided that it must be the source of the
Nile river. They decided to call it Nylstroom and their theory about
it was strengthened when they discovered what looked like a ruined pyramid
near the river. The ruined pyramid turned out to be a natural hillock,
known to the local tribespeople as Modimollo (‘meaning place of
spirits’) revered as the burial ground of ancient chiefs.
Modimolle, with its streets shaded by poinciana and jacaranda trees, is the commercial centre of the Bushveld region. Modimolle is famous for exporting grapes and other soft fruits such as peaches. But the area is particularly well known for its wide range of outdoor recreation. Attractions and Things To Do in Modimolle Reformed Church Built in 1929, located on Calywyn Street and designed by Mr. Gerhard Moerdijk. Next to it is the oldest church North of Pretoria, built in 1889, it has been declared a national monument. Historical Buildings Bakker’s Pharmacy, the façade of the Commando offices, Ons Hoop Building and the F H Odendaal Hospital. Train Enthusiasts Will enjoy the original locomotive used on the line between Pretoria and Nylstroom after the line was completed in 1898 which now has pride of place at the railway station. A ride on the luxury colonial train Nylsvley Express to the nearby Boekenhout station also makes for a fun outing. Donkerpoort Dam About 11 km northwest of Modimolle on the R517. It is a well-liked fishing spot for carp, bream, black bass and barbel. The eight hot spring resorts Offer an assortment of recreation and accommodation facilities. They dray thousands of visitors every year. Horse Safaris On various game reserves and game farms Hiking and Nature Trails Provide opportunities to enjoy the unique scenery Hunting Safaris There are many hunting farms in the vicinity Birdwatching The Nysvley Nature reserve is home to an incredible 420 recorded bird species, making it a bird watchers dream. A group camp accommodates 30 persons at a time and a lecture hall is ideal for conferences. |
||
|
back |