Mpumalanga’s tourism offerings have been given a boost with developments at the Graskop Gorge Lift Co.
The primary attraction is the Graskop Gorge Lift, which was opened in 2017. Other attractions include a 52m suspension bridge that links the northern and southern sides of the gorge and the Big Swing, one of the world’s highest cable gorge swings.
The latest project is the Adventure Hub, and a double zipline course featuring two 120m-long ziplines has also opened.
New walkways and decks have been built around the Big Swing as well as a new launch platform. “We have now completely overhauled the Big Swing, modernising the systems and aesthetically aligned it with the newer buildings on the southern side of the gorge,” said director, Campbell Scott.
Additional information boards about the environment and its inhabitants are now in place.
The new Swing Café offers a truly South African menu complemented by craft beer and cocktails on tap.
“The idea is quick food and hassle-free beverages, served in an informal social setting,” said manager, Yvonne Oliver.
“The Swing Café complements the more traditional Lift Café, which offers a full menu of food made to order and an extensive drinks list. Excitingly, the Swing Café has longer operating hours to enable visitors to enjoy a sundowner, with last orders at around 6pm. Both have stunning views, though,” said Oupa Pilane, one of the three directors and founders of the Graskop Gorge Lift Co.
Co-director, James Sheard, said it was the team’s intention to position the Panorama Route as more than just the road to the Kruger National Park, but as a destination in its own right.