Home - Travel Destinations - Hartbeespoort – A Beautiful Hidden Gem in South Africa
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Home - Travel Destinations - Hartbeespoort – A Beautiful Hidden Gem in South Africa
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Just outside Hartbeespoort, the quaint residential village of Kosmos offers stunning views of the dam and the Magaliesberg mountains. It’s an ideal spot to relax and embrace nature over a weekend, or even in the middle of the week. A quick getaway from the busy city life of Johannesburg.
Nestled in South Africa’s North West Province, this beautiful area by the Hartbeespoort Dam might just make you feel like you’ve stepped into Italy, with views reminiscent of Lake Como. (OK not quite, but surely close enough.)
Here you can find a bit of Paris and Italy all in one, within the beautiful country of South Africa.
Hartbeespoort, or Harties as the locals call it, is a charming town nestled on the slopes of the Magaliesberg. Just a short distance away lies the village of Kosmos, perched between the mountains and the water, offering stunning views all around. Unlike a typical holiday resort, Kosmos is a blend of permanent homes and vacation rentals, giving it a laid-back, residential feel that invites you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
While Harties and Kosmos are technically separate places, they come together to create one delightful area just waiting to be explored.
“The sunrise here is unbeatable. Kosmos is perfectly positioned to showcase some of the most stunning African sunrises you’ll ever see. We woke up early just in time to witness the sky all painted in shades of pink and orange, accompanied by the cheerful chorus of birds singing from the treetops. With an authentic South African breakfast of rusks and coffee, we were ready to hit the road and start exploring.”
Listen to the melodious songs of birds welcoming the new day. As the sun peeks over the horizon, casting its warm glow over the landscape, take a moment to reflect on the beauty and wonder of nature. Whether you’re enjoying the sunrise alone in quiet contemplation or sharing the experience with loved ones, it’s a moment that will stay with you long after the sun has fully risen. Capture the magic with a camera or simply bask in the moment, letting the peaceful energy of the sunrise in Kosmos rejuvenate your spirit and inspire your day ahead.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of a sunrise in Kosmos. As the sun rises over the water of the Hartbeespoort Dam, the sky is painted with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and gold, creating a truly unforgettable sight. Immerse yourself in the peaceful serenity of this stunning location and start your day off on a perfect note.
Not one sunrise is ever the same.
REASON TO VISIT: You’ll have something spectacular to look forward to each morning.
Our first stop was Jasmyn Farm Products, the perfect place to stock up on all your weekend essentials. This market is a treasure trove of unique, locally sourced products, as well as fabulous treats from Holland, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to pick up fresh produce, baked goods, and other interesting finds. Furthermore it also features a few fantastic restaurants you must try. It’s the perfect place to spend a morning.
Address: Jan Smuts Ave &, R511, Hartbeespoort, 0216
Jasmyn Fresh Produce in Hartbeespoort, affectionately known as the “Jasmyn Windmill,” is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s a bustling market that offers a wide selection of farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal breads, and homemade jams. Known for its quality and variety (you can’t get any better), Jasmyn is the go-to place for anyone looking to stock up on seasonal produce and specialty items.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with vibrant displays of fresh flowers, cheeses, and baked treats that make it a delightful stop on any trip to Harties. Plus, with its charming windmill and surrounding gardens, it’s a lovely place to take a stroll and enjoy the scenery.
At the entrance you’ll find beautiful flowers and plants on sale. A feast for the eyes…
For anyone who loves farm-fresh quality, this is the perfect place to fill your basket. But, they also have a fine selection of special treats…
Jasmyn has various sections dedicated to food, snacks, and sweets from Holland… “Hollandse lekkernye”. We bought some “Gemmer brood” and it was delicious. Drop, Zaanse mustard, stollen, scheepsknopen, coffee milk…and much more…
“Jasmyn in Harties is the most fabulous fruit and veg shop I’ve ever visited in South Africa—fresh produce, amazing variety! I’ll definitely recommend it to everyone.”
As part of the “complex,” there’s so much more to explore, including a delightful gifts and décor shop offering unique finds.
It’s a fabulous place to browse and lose yourself in all things beautiful.
Then, take the stairs to a restaurant with a view over the gardens, or to get to the Bookshop. Again a fabulous place to stop.
Climb the storybook adventure stairs to the top and discover that special book you’ve been searching for.
You can spend a whole morning just at Jasmyn. But the surrounding area still has a lot to offer the world traveler.
“As they say in Afrikaans, “Ek het my hart verloor”—I lost my heart. But truthfully, I left a piece of it at Jasmyn, which keeps drawing me back time and again. In short, Jasmyn is a must-visit!”
Here you will find:
In comparison: We tried the milkshakes at Waffle House and those served at the Roadhouse. Both were nice and in comparison the Roadhouse milkshakes were a bit more expensive, but we think you’ll like them both. 🙂
A visit to “French Toast” (Little Paris) will transport you straight to Paris. With an Eiffel Tower replica, the “I Love You” wall, and even a lock bridge, it’s the perfect spot to snap photos and fool your friends into thinking you’ve wandered the streets of Paris.
This lovely Coffee Café was specially built for the movie “French Toast”, filmed in South Africa and in Paris. In the movie, the Coffee Café was called ‘Café Alexandre’.
This pitstop is also known to locals as “Klein Parys” (in Afrikaans) or Little Paris. Visiting Little Paris in Harties offers a charming escape, with iconic Parisian sights, perfect photo ops, and a delightful atmosphere that brings the magic of Paris to South Africa.
What is there to see and do at Little Paris? At Little Paris Harties, you’ll find a cozy coffee shop, an Eiffel Tower replica, and even an aquarium and bird park. And for a bit of fun, there’s a photo wall where you can snap pictures that will have your friends thinking you’re in Paris. With a few more surprises tucked in, it’s a charming spot full of quirky delights that make for a memorable visit.There’s a coffee shop, Eiffel Tower replica, they acqarium and bird park is here, and there are a few more supprises like a photo wall ( you can fool your friends into thinking you’re actually in Paris)…
REASON TO VISIT: Enjoy a slice of Parisian magic, and add a touch of beauty to your daily routine.
REASON TO VISIT: Staying in Kosmos feels like you’re on your own remote island, tucked away from the world’s troubles. It offers a peaceful, serene escape where you can truly unwind and recharge.
Did you know they also have an open-air Christian Church. Everyone is welcome. On Sundays, you can attend a very special church service under, and amongst huge trees on the side of the mountain (no walls). A truly unique experience.
Review: “I absolutely loved my experience at Cosmos Cafe! The atmosphere is fantastic, blending a peaceful, laid-back vibe during the week with a lively, bustling energy on weekends. The location is perfect, offering stunning views of the Hartbeespoort Dam that make every visit feel special. The food was delicious, with a great selection of freshly made dishes that cater to all tastes. What really stood out was the excellent service—warm, welcoming, and attentive, making me feel right at home. It’s a must-visit spot in Kosmos, whether you’re looking for a quiet weekday escape or a vibrant weekend outing.” – Elmari
If you’re looking for a nice place to have breakfast or lunch, Kosmos Café is an excellent option. Situated right on the waters’ edge, you’ll love the service and food. Enjoy a relaxing meal or a fun gathering with friends and family. Especially if you’re staying in Kosmos, you should at least have dinner here one evening at sunset.
Every town has its “angels,” and Kosmos is no exception. Rumor has it that the village has a special guardian who looks after the stray cats. Unbeknownst to her, her kindness and care for these little creatures reveal the heart of the community—where even the smallest animals are treated with love and attention.
Even in hard times, like the recent fires, the community of Kosmos stands as a testament to the spirit of togetherness, where neighbors become friends and support one another through it all.
A sign as you enter the village. 🙂
The best time to visit Hartbeespoort is in spring and summer, from September to March, when the weather is pleasant. While you may encounter the occasional afternoon thunderstorm, the fragrance of blooming flowers in October is simply wonderful. Spring brings vibrant Jacaranda trees in full bloom, and summer sees the bougainvillea bursting with color. It’s your perfect opportunity to experience a little piece of Paris and Italy, right here in South Africa.
The nearest airport to Kosmos (Cosmos) or Hartbeespoort is Lanseria International Airport (HLA). It is a smaller sized airport but is closely situated (only about 30 min away).
The Car Rental companies are easily accessible at the airport. (You can do your booking online.)
We do recommend taking extra insurance on a rental for wheel and tire damage. (Especially during winter time the roads can often have a few scary potholes.) Take your time when driving around, and be on the lookout for them.
In every sunrise there is a promise of a new beginning.
You might want to read about the Drakensberg of South Africa.
