Olifantsfontein: Farm Adventures and Ceramic History

Olifantsfontein combines a family attraction with a distinctive ceramic history. The Big Red Barn is a family-friendly farm venue between Pretoria and Johannesburg; its address is in Olifantsfontein. This gives visitors different points of interest to consider when planning a trip: fun activities at the farm venue and a historical perspective on the ceramics that were to be made here.

Activities at The Big Red Barn

The venue has three restaurants. The number may change, so it is worth checking the latest information before your visit. The activities offer a range of experiences: Nino’s Adventures has an electric go-kart track in the Pirate Ship children’s play area. The karts are suitable for children aged two and up. Nino’s Adventures also offers inflatable Bouncy Balls for adults and children on the lawn.

If you prefer trampolines to rides or balls, The Big Red Barn’s Jump Park has 22 trampolines. The options range from go-karting and Bouncy Balls to trampolining. For go-karts, Bouncy Balls and the Jump Park, it is a good idea to check the operator’s current offerings before your visit.

The Kids Zone also has its own location within the venue: it is next to the barn and near the Pirate Ship, the climbing frame and the go-karts. There are tables and sun umbrellas there, as well as time slots in the morning and afternoon. This helps you fit playtime and a visit to this area into your day without confusing the different offerings.

Treetops, trails and forest cabins

Acrobranch offers treetop climbing adventures for adults and children at The Big Red Barn. If you would like to combine an active outing with a walk, you could also consider the Big Red Barn Trails. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a leash on these trails. Before your visit, check Acrobranch’s current offerings and booking arrangements, as well as the latest rules for using the trails.

Another special feature of the venue is its five forest cabins in the woods beside Acrobranch. They offer guests a private area. Check directly with the venue to find out whether bookings are currently available.

A historical perspective on Olifantsfontein

Alongside today’s recreational offerings, there is an older cultural history: in 1925, Sir Thomas Cullinan invited Gladys Short and Marjorie Johnstone to set up a new ceramics studio at the then-abandoned site in Olifantsfontein. Both women had graduated from the Durban School of Art. Their story offers a different way to explore Olifantsfontein from the activity-focused offerings at the farm venue.

These different interests may influence your choice of holiday rental in Olifantsfontein: consider whether your trip will focus mainly on activities at The Big Red Barn, time outdoors or the area’s cultural background. The farm venue’s offerings can be grouped by activity type, while its ceramic history takes you back to 1925.

Discover more destinations: Germiston, Alberton, Springs, Kempton Park, Boksburg.

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