Looking for a peaceful farm escape in Johannesburg? You might be surprised to find that there are several farms and animal sanctuaries open to visitors in and around the city! Our top pick of the 5 best family-friendly farms to visit around Johannesburg keeps you in the region and won’t have you travelling further than an hour or so.
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1. Irene Farm, Irene
It’s rare to come across a working dairy farm nestled in the city, but Irene Farm offers just that in the picturesque city village of Irene.
Owned by the Van der Byl family, now five generations strong, this farm has long welcomed both locals and tourists to experience its unique blend of rural life within an urban setting.
Over the years, the farm has expanded its offerings, yet it has retained its charming, rustic atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the farm’s scenic grounds, enjoy the presence of farm animals, and take advantage of two on-site restaurants, The Barn and The Deck. A highlight for many is The Dairy Shop at the farm’s entrance, where you can purchase fresh milk and delicious home-baked goods. Whether you’re planning a family day out or looking for a venue to host a special event like a wedding or a children’s party, Irene Farm provides a memorable experience for all.
2. Ludwig’s Rose Farm, Pretoria North
Ludwig’s Roses is a renowned rose farm north of Pretoria that has been enchanting visitors for over five decades. Established in 1971 by Ludwig Taschner, the farm has grown into a leading center for rose propagation in SA, offering more than 1,000 different rose varieties.
The farm is a vibrant gem, especially in summer when the roses are in full bloom. Ludwig advises to visit from the end of September onwards, to see the rose farm in its fully glory.
Visitors can enjoy a meal at The Rose Kitchen, a rose-themed restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, including German-inspired meals and rose-infused drinks. After dining, guests can browse the extensive nursery, which features an impressive array of rose plants, or explore the quirky gift shop filled with rose-flavoured treats and products.
One of the farm’s highlights is the ‘rose safari,’ a tractor ride through the expansive rose fields, where visitors can admire and even receive freshly cut roses. Ludwig’s Roses is a perfect day-trip destination if you’re looking to escape Jozi.
Ludwig’s Roses has several locations across SA. When planning a visit, ensure you’ve got the correct address to visit the farm, and not a flower hub.
3. The Field Berry Farm, Johannesburg South
Nestled in the south of Johannesburg, this raspberry farm invites visitors to enjoy the delight of berry picking during the raspberry season, which runs from January to April.
The farm offers a range of activities for all ages, including a children’s bicycle track, an outdoor playground, and occasional live local music performances. Visitors can also explore stalls offering delicious food and drinks, making it a perfect outing for families.
At the farm stall, you’ll find an array of homemade raspberry products, including jam, craft beer, and frozen yoghurt.
In 2020, the farm expanded into almond farming, planting 1,000 almond trees. This new venture culminated in the first-ever Almond Blossom Festival in September 2023. Visitors were treated to a stroll through blossoming almond trees, complemented by delicious food, including Japanese-inspired street fare. The festival’s dates for this year are still to be announced.
4. Van Gaalen Cheese Farm, Hartbeespoort
Van Gaalen Kaasmakerij, located in the village of Skeerpoort at the foot of the Magaliesberg mountains, has been producing traditional Gouda cheese since 1994. Founded by Annelies Van Gaalen, the farm blends authentic Dutch cheesemaking with South African hospitality. Fresh local milk is used to craft a variety of artisanal cheeses, matured on-site and available for purchase. Visitors can explore this heritage through informative cheese tours, which began in 1996 and have grown into a popular educational activity.
The farm also offers a range of outdoor activities, including scenic trails for mountain biking, hiking, and birding, developed by Annelies’s husband, Erik Schipper. Guests can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant, relax with picnics, or take tractor rides through the beautiful landscape. Van Gaalen is an ideal destination for a day of relaxation, outdoor adventure, and a taste of traditional Gouda.
5. Riversands Farm Village, Midrand
Riversands Farm Village, located on Rose Road in Midrand, is a charming dog-friendly weekend escape. On weekends, the village transforms into a lively spot with a range of activities and a vibrant Food Village. Sundays are highlighted by live music, a variety of food vendors, and a fully stocked bar. The Riversands Farm Shop serves its popular Chicken Pies, fresh every weekend.
Children can enjoy the open lawns with bikes, soccer balls, and other games, and have fun at the Playscapes play area. For those keen on a bit of exercise, the farm features well-marked 2.5km and 5km trails that open at 7:15 a.m. daily.
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