Bapsfontein What-to-do & Arts Route

Bapsfontein is fast becoming one of the “go-to” hotspots in Gauteng. Frequented by bikers and explorers alike, it is a little town full of surprises.

Historically the town was known for the “legendary” Bapsfontein Hotel where style and swagger was the order of the day. Week-end dance functions at the local hotspot would go well into the night where couples from all over Transvaal would start off an evening with dinner and enjoy dancing afterwards.

The hotel went bankrupt in the early nineties and a squatter camp took over its place, housing around 210 shacks and about 5000 inhabitants. Although peaceful, it was an eyesore and the area became known for this unfortunate landmark. Bapsfontein’s reputation took another turn for the worse with riots and land claims in the early 2000’s. Adding to the notoriety, weekly even daily motor accidents in and around the area were amplified by sirens and chasing ambulances.

Today, with the squatter camp removed and the semi-ruins of the old hotel still visible, Bapsfontein is literally rising out of the ashes. Spiritually and physically farms with stunning maize and other crops are a beautiful sight, churches are growing and people are flocking to this new area with excitement in the air. Restaurants are opening, a Saturday market sprung into life, houses are being bought and refurbished and business’ flourishing. Even the old hotel is set to be restored to its former glory with new contemporary design incorporating a little 70’s nostalgia.

Today there are many things-to-do in Bapsfontein. Take the family for a hearty farm breakfast at one of the local farm restaurants. Shop for fresh produce, jams and all kinds of gifts. The bakery offers fresh baked goods on a daily basis. The arbattoir sells A grade fresh meat direct to the public. Point in the direction of the local cheese farm. You will be pleasantly surprised. There is an array of different cheeses on offer.

For the adrenalin junkie there is a rally experience offering self-drive or hot-lap rally drives. (The yearly Bapsfontein rally is also hosted in this area.) The micro light airfield offers micro light flips over the stunning area, be sure to take your camera, where the local airfield offers the same in larger aircraft. Horse riding is another attraction with spectacular riding places in and around. Offroad and MX enthusiasts are also catered for at numerous venues and other riding places.

Some Saturdays also host a festive food and crafts market. Keep an eye out for this. Fresh farm produce, decorative steelwork, wooden frames, cakes, cheese, flowers and herbs and more is sold while food stalls are available to keep you satisfied while the kids are entertained with face-painting, a jumping castle and farm animals to feed. In the “mood” to get married? Stunning wedding venues in the area can cater for your special occasion.

Plans for a new furniture and other shops within the next year are also on the preverbal table! More offerings are available on a daily basis. Make Bapsfontein your next Sunday drive destination. You won’t regret it.

A map, as well as a list of restaurants and businesses in the area will soon be available for download.