Discovering some of most welcoming pet stays in the Magaliesberg a short drive from the city
By Donatella Candido
Travelling the Magaliesberg with a four-legged companion? The scenic route from Jozi to Rustenburg bordering Gauteng and the North West is a haven for nature lovers and pet owners alike. From luxury stays to rustic retreats, the area boasts a variety of self-catering accommodations that cater to your needs while ensuring your dog is well-looked-after. If you are looking for spacious gardens and fully fenced venues where your pup can roam safely, here are three of my personal favourites:
Stone Hill Four Star Pet Friendly Boutique Accommodation in Magaliesburg
Set atop a hill overlooking the Magaliesburg valley, Stone Hill offers four-star hospitality that extends wholeheartedly to its furry guests. There are nine fully fenced cottages positioned well apart from one another, ensuring total privacy. Each unit includes a splash pool and a thoughtfully designed outdoor shower, featuring a secondary lower shower fitting specifically for your companions. It is the perfect setup for rinsing off those muddy paws after a day of exploration in the veld before heading back inside.
While humans can get pampered with mobile spa treatments, pets can enjoy professional grooming services. The weekend breakfast spread is incredible, and dogs aren’t left out; you can order freshly prepared meals, such as meatballs and rice, which smell delicious enough to tempt the owners! You can even book a professional pet photographer to capture memories of your stay. The highlight is a stunning 5km bushveld walking trail with scenic views of the valley that leads to a riverine area with pristine lawns—ideal for a midday picnic and a play. All breeds are welcome, with a maximum of six dogs allowed.
Landor Stud in Maanhaarrand
Landor Stud is a picture-perfect, family-owned working farm situated right at the foot of the Magaliesberg mountains, near the historic Breedt Nek pass. It offers a beautiful glimpse into country life, combined with complete independence for you and your animal. As a dedicated breeding farm, the property is home to elegant Warmblood sport horses, Dexter cattle, and adorable Meatmaster lambs. In the late afternoon, you can head up to the main dwelling to see the livestock up close, which is a wonderful experience if your pup is accustomed to farm life.
The exceptionally spacious self-catering cottage sleeps four people across two bedrooms. There is no television here—it is intentionally designed as a place to unplug, read, and reconnect with nature. The unit is 100% private with its own dedicated entrance and runs entirely on green energy. Being fully self-sufficient and off-the-grid means you can relax without a single thought about power interruptions. There is an expansive, fully fenced garden for your pets to enjoy safely, and visitors are welcome to traverse all over the farm, offering plenty of open ground to explore. For a bit of extra pampering, you can even arrange a relaxing mobile spa treatment right at the cottage. There is no limit on the number of dogs permitted.
Stone Meadows Country Estate in Maanhaarrand
For panoramic views and a truly secluded atmosphere, Stone Meadows Country Estate is an ideal choice. This family-run working farm is surrounded by gentle mountains and provides a wonderfully quiet, slow-paced environment where you can completely switch off. It is an absolute haven for social dogs who love to explore and swim; the farm features a private dam where your pup can paddle while you try your hand at catch-and-release carp fishing or canoeing.
For active days together, take a leisurely 3km walk around the estate to enjoy idyllic country scenes of the pecan orchard and local birdlife, or watch the resident horses, cattle, and sheep graze peacefully. The estate offers three individually themed, fully fenced cottages. These range from cosy four-sleepers near the bottom dam to spacious three-bedroom options like Vultures View, which accommodates larger groups and offers incredible vantage points for the afternoon sun. A maximum of two dogs is allowed per cottage, though more may be permitted depending on the breed.
Always double-check pet policies when making a booking and pack essentials like food, water bowls, leashes, and waste bags. Remember explore responsibly by keeping your pet leashed in public areas and cleaning up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your leash, and embark on an unforgettable pet-friendly adventure in the Magalies!
