A new fun outdoors activity for young and old can be found on the outskirts of Irene, Botha avenue. Acrobranch is an exciting aerial adventure – zip lines, nets, bridges, Tarzan swings and log steps create an obstacle course for kids and adults from tree to tree. Harnessing a natural thicket of Bluegum trees on the Sunlawns Estate, your wild side will be awakened when you step out of the car into the inviting outdoors atmosphere. The adventure sport concept was created in 1989 in France, the name in French means tree climbing and “accro” also means addict – hence the sport is definitely perfect for the adrenaline junkies! For the younger generation of PlayStation gamers, this activity will again stir the urge to rather play outside and engage body plus mind.

If you prefer going off the beaten track of mall or franchised coffee shops, La Monaco in Lynnwood is a must! Situated in the corner of the little hub of shops cluttered around the circle in Roderick street, you are guaranteed a moment of pure decadent escapism. Not only can you indulge in a scrumptious nibble and cuppa, you can also find a stylish new piece of home décor. A unique concept of combining a coffee shop and an interior décor shop, the two complement each other perfectly.

Lynnwood Bridge has now been part of our local mall scene for nearly two years. And it’s probably now more popular than ever. It definitely has a special vibe unlike any of the other local malls. Dubbed as a lifestyle centre you have shop options ranging from stylish restaurants, to sports equipment, to home and beauty. The open piazza area also boasts with sculptures by popular local sculptor, Angus Taylor, in front of the Atterbury Theatre. He titled the pieces Grounded, ungrounded I and II. Each with a donkey as central element, they are symbolic social commentary, breaking away from the masculinity norm with a central female figure. The sitting donkey also has a fun kids element with its open bubbling water fountains.

"Happy and successful cooking doesn't rely only on know-how; it comes from the heart, makes great demands on the palate and needs enthusiasm and a deep love of food to bring it to life" - Georges Blanc, Ma Cuisine des Saisons. Brasserie de Paris strives to create a superb fine dining experience for its patrons. With its location in a private residence instead of a bustling shopping centre, it quietly makes the appeal to food connoisseurs to seek it out. And its top-class gourmet food selection will definitely not disappoint! Sarie Jooste Jordaan whisked up the quaint restaurant name and relocated it to the family home of her husband, Johan Jooste, in 2005. Son of the famous architect, Karl Jooste, he supported his wife establishing the French cuisine restaurant in the house - seizing the opportunity to display it as a memento of his father’s brilliant design skills.

Driving past the simplistic concrete building in Wekker street, one would never image the luxury hidden behind the walls. The Gemstone Spa, Hydro Lounge and Wellness Clinic (located in the Blue Diamond Boutique Hotel) enfolds you in a luxurious atmosphere of relaxation as you step inside the double-volume reception area, with soothing background music and indoor water features setting the scene for a deluxe pampering moment. The spa compliments the boutique hotel effortlessly, but it’s also perfect for a quick daytime retreat. With a wide range of treatments, ranging from pure relaxation to advanced health attention, all your beauty needs will be met with high quality service and products.

City meets rustic charm at Die Werf in Olympus, Pretoria East.  Nestled in a lush forest-like setting, the city noises will fade away into a relaxed atmosphere for you to enjoy. Various seating options to choose from ranging from an inside dining room, to an open or closed deck area and private downstairs cellar setting. With the motto that you will feel as comfortable as if you were at your granny’s house, they aim to give you a truly South African dining experience. Dishes include bobotie, tripe, lamb stew, frikkadels and Malva pudding. Following their motto, they have now designed a new dining experience – recreating a home-like setting where the dishes are presented on your table in antique pots and you dish for yourself.  Contact the restaurant to book a traditional “home-cooked” meal.

Travelling towards Kievits Kroon Country Estate & Spa the short stretch of gravel road will set the tone for a secluded, peaceful experience.  Described as “the Winelands in Gauteng”, you will soon forget that you are in the Pretoria region.  The Cape Dutch architecture, expansive green lawns and lavish trees will beckon you closer to indulge in pure luxury.  In the serene environment no fragment of stress will be able to survive.  The stunning accommodation and restaurants are perfectly complimented by the luxurious Winelands spa.  Whether you decide on a decadent over-night stay, or just an afternoon visit – an escape to Kievits Kroon will create a delightful feeling of rejuvenation.