Nestled within the 1000-hectare Blue Crane Nature Reserve, a new 3km Forest Walk at Brahman Hills offers a rare opportunity for visitors to reconnect with nature in an extraordinary way. Opened in 2024, this beautifully designed trail invites guests to explore the breathtaking landscape of the Midlands while embracing the balance between tranquillity and the energy of South Africa’s dynamic economy.
According to Onwaba Gonyora, Director of Brahman Hills, a premier country retreat, the forest is thousands of years old. Once an undisturbed, silent space, it now borders the N3 – a major highway and economic lifeline – linking the bustling hubs of Johannesburg and Durban. But Gonyora and her team don’t regard this as a negative. “In fact,” she says, “the distant hum of vehicles travelling this busy route symbolises progress in motion. It’s a small price to pay for the daily momentum that drives our economy and sustains the livelihoods of countless people. It’s also a reminder of how nature and human enterprise – a blend of calm and activity – can coexist through thoughtful planning that respects both economic needs and environmental values.”
The Forest Walk is the brainchild of Iain Buchan, founder of Brahman Hills and an avid adventurer with a passion for nature. Having tested his limits in extreme environments, such as the Ice Marathon in Antarctica just three months ago, Buchan brings the same spirit of exploration to this tranquil retreat. The walk, which begins near the towering 6-metre Giant sculpture on the hill – a striking new landmark on the N3 – leads to a wooden walkway that meanders through the stunning nature reserve’s forest. As you explore, you may well encounter zebra, impala, and wildebeest along the way, while bird enthusiasts can look forward to a variety of species in the indigenous trees.
Gonyora highlights that the International Day of Forests is celebrated on 21st March annually, a global event that raises awareness about the importance of sustainable forestry and conservation. “Brahman Hills recognises that fostering a deeper appreciation for nature is key to ensuring its protection. By encouraging visitors to engage with nature in a new way, the Forest Walk serves as a powerful tool in raising awareness about the need for environmental conservation,” she notes.
In addition to the Forest Walk, Brahman Hills is home to internationally award-winning gardens and also hosts the popular Midlands Park Run, a weekly event that encourages guests to stay active while taking in the stunning natural beauty of the region. Whether running, walking, or simply enjoying the views, Brahman Hills offers a space for everyone to connect with nature in a meaningful way.
“As we welcome you to experience the Forest Walk, we also invite you to linger; whether for an hour, a day, a weekend, or even the school holidays. We’d love to see you in our ‘neck of the woods’ and share the beauty of Brahman Hills,” Gonyora concludes.
For more information, please visit https://www.brahmanhills.co.za
