Planning on road-tripping through South Africa this December? With a country as beautiful as SA, road-tripping truly is the best way to travel. However, it's important to take regular stops along the way to rest, swap drivers, or grab a cup of coffee and some chow. Luckily, South Africa has many hidden gems along most major roadways where you can stretch your legs, take in a great view, and enjoy a refreshing break. Rent a car from First Car Rental to make your road trip even more enjoyable and convenient.
We've listed below our top 5 child-friendly rest stops in terms of location, service, food, cleanliness, and overall ambiance.
1. Milly's, en route to Mbombela, Mpumalanga, N4
If you're heading to the Kruger National Park, be sure to pop in at Milly's and enjoy some good old farmstall fare, as well as delicious burgers, wraps, pies, and more. The menu also offers a number of plant-based and gluten-free meals. They also offer idyllic lakeview accommodation if you and your family need a break from the open road. Each room is well-lit and equipped with coffee, tea, and Milly's famous rusks.
While you're there, check out the trout factory, known as one of the only factories in the world to still cut paper-thin sheets of trout by hand. Hire an SUV from First Car Rental for a comfortable drive to this scenic stop.
2. The Windmills, Nottingham Road, en route to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
The Windmills indoor food market is exactly what South Africa needs in terms of roadside dining. Enjoy a wide variety of flavorsome food at their 15 food stalls, serving everything from pizza, curry, Mediterranean, burgers, and Mexican to vegan-friendly harvest tables, ice cream, and more. Anything you need—they've got it. Plus, the service is super fast.
The market employs locals from around the Midlands area and only takes produce from local farmers, creating community upliftment. You can also bring along the kids and your pets and have some fun on the green lawns. Rent a car from First Car Rental to explore the Midlands and visit this fantastic stop along the way.
www.facebook.com/TheWindmillsSA
3. Nanaga, near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, 10-R72-N2 Interchange
About 50km from PE is Nanaga, featuring their famous farmstall which sells roosterkoek, pies, pineapple juice, and other delights—perfect for both those on the run and those who want to sit and enjoy a meal. If you find yourself there on a Sunday, you'll be able to enjoy some live entertainment.
After your meal, check out their gift shop, which has everything from soft toys to beaded bracelets, Cape Mohair socks, and more. They also sell a variety of jams (Fig, blackberry, Gooseberry, strawberry, Watermelon, and more) and some of the best homemade treats to tantalize your taste buds. Book a car rental with First Car Rental to easily access this popular spot.
4. Hekpoort Heksie, Magaliesburg, Gauteng, R24
Hekpoort Heksie in Magaliesburg is great for stocking up on chillies, jams, pickles, and chicken pies. They supply chilli products to over 350 different shops in South Africa, including SPAR, butcheries, restaurants, and even exports to the Netherlands and the USA.
They also have an old-school diner that serves simple but tasty food. You can request specific dishes, but Hekpoort Heksie is famous for its eastern crispy beef salad, prego rolls, chicken pies, curries, and more. Don't forget to try their homemade bread, available on weekends. Rent an automatic car from First Car Rental to make your visit to this unique spot a breeze.
www.facebook.com/pg/hekpoort.heksie
5. Bordeaux Restaurant, Colesberg, en route to Cape Town
Nestled in the quiet Northern Cape town of Colesberg, the Bordeaux Restaurant offers a true gastronomic experience. The restaurant occupies what was once one of the first houses built in the area in 1830. The modern restaurant still retains the charm of the original house, with a warm, inviting atmosphere and attractive gardens.
If you're looking for a tasty roadside meal after a long day on the road, pop in and enjoy a little something from their unique menu, including lamb burgers, mutton pies, bobotie, and more. For those with a sweet tooth, you can stock up on koeksisters and other homemade treats. Hire an economy car from First Car Rental to travel comfortably to this delightful stop.
