 Bela-Bela
(which means the pot that boils), formerly known as "Warmbaths",
owes its origins to the hot mineral springs that bubble out of the earth
at about 22 000 liters of water per hour at a temperature of approximately
53°C. The water is rich in minerals such as sodium chloride, calcium
carbonate and other salts, and is believed to have curative properties.
The pleasantly mild climate during the winter months and an average of
286 sunny days every year add to the popularity of the destination. The
town is just over an hour’s drive from Gauteng and lies on the Springbok
Flats on the highway to the north.
Bela-Bela is also a gateway to the southern Waterberg and Thabazimbi.
Bela-Bela serves a thriving agricultural region and has some well-stocked
game reserves in the area. Most of the resorts offer excellent conference,
sport, accommodation, recreation and restaurant facilities.
Some of the reserves boast the “Big Five” and countless other
savannah species against a backdrop of scenic Waterberg countryside.
Some places of interest include:
British Blockhouse - was erected by the British Soldiers to protect the
railway line against the Boers during the Anglo-Boer War.
You can view the Blockhouse in the Industrial District via Paul Sauer
Road.
Christina Pretorius Grave - the grave of Andries Pretorius' wife, Christina,
can be seen in the Voortrekker Cemetry behind the Municipality.
De Wildt Shingwedzi - observe these world renowned De Wildt Cheetahs
and Wild Dogs at close quarters of witness the feeding of these magnificent
captive born carnivorous.
A visit to Bela-Bela provides a unique and invigorating family holiday
in the heart of the Waterberg.
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Newsletter:
03 September 2010 to 10 September 2010 - Focus on Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
