If you’re looking for a peaceful day-trip destination near Hartbeespoort, the Van Gaalen Cheese Farm is a charming escape. It’s filled with farm animals, panoramic mountain views, and quiet moments perfect for reflection. As a photographer, I’m always on the lookout for new places to explore, and this one felt like a hidden gem.
As you enter through the gate, a path stretches ahead, leading to the cheese-making building with its green barn doors. To the left and right, farm animals roam freely—sheep, wooden posts, and a pig nestled in his den across from the posts. An old ox-wagon sits in front of the cheese building, a relic from another time. Nearby, an abandoned red telephone booth stands like a forgotten ornament, quietly weathering the years.
I usually have my camera with me, and over the years, my style has evolved. I once favored a shallow depth of field, but now I appreciate capturing the world in all its clarity, just as the eye sees it. Photography has become my form of meditation—taking time to slow down, observe, and document the beauty that surrounds me, wherever I go.
Van Gaalen Cheese Farm made for a lovely day trip. There’s a restaurant, a dam, and the Magaliesberg mountains standing watch in the distance. The farm is home to llamas, sheep, and a few chickens pecking at the ground. On the day I visited, the sky was overcast, with clouds gently brushing the mountain tops. There are hiking and mountain bike trails too, which I’ll explore next time.
After enjoying some breakfast and coffee, I decided to take my camera and wander off. I headed toward the dam, just 50 metres from the restaurant. No birds on the water, but the chirp of sparrows filled the air, with the mountains standing silently in the background, keeping watch.
I then turned my attention to the llamas and wandered further, following a stream. Trees lined both sides, their branches reaching toward one another. I snapped a few shots, taking in the calm atmosphere, when I noticed a metal bridge ahead. I’ve always been drawn to bridges—especially old ones made of stone or wood. Perhaps it’s a lingering affection from Tolkien’s stories, with their rich history and secret tales. There’s something fascinating about the people and the stories they carry. I spent a few moments photographing the bridge, capturing it up close and from afar, before continuing my walk.
I then turned my attention to the llamas and wandered further, following a stream. Trees lined both sides, their branches reaching toward one another. I snapped a few shots, taking in the calm atmosphere, when I noticed a metal bridge ahead. I’ve always been drawn to bridges—especially old ones made of stone or wood. Perhaps it’s a lingering affection from Tolkien’s stories, with their rich history and secret tales. There’s something fascinating about the people and the stories they carry. I spent a few moments photographing the bridge, capturing it up close and from afar, before continuing my walk.
As I followed the stream, I came across a small square building made of stone. I’m not sure what its purpose was, but I imagine it’s used for storing farm equipment. It had no windows, but there was a metal ladder leading to the roof, which I didn’t climb. Perhaps it’s a doorway to some forgotten space, or even a secret portal—who knows?
After enjoying the serenity of the surroundings—the chirping of birds and the soft babbling of the stream—it was time to head back. I didn’t take the same path as before, and along the way, I passed some small sheds housing chickens, who were busy pecking at the ground. Their clucking, “pak-pak-paaak,” filled the air, bringing a touch of charm to the moment. I passed the old red telephone booth again, its faded red paint a reminder of a time long gone.
Later, I decided to visit the farm shop, where I spent a considerable amount of time deciding which cheese to buy. After much contemplation, I finally made my choice…
Before leaving, I stopped to admire the eucalyptus trees once more, then turned to glance at the pig and a few goats, content in their own world.
Spending time at the Van Gaalen Cheese Farm in Hartbeespoort was a delightful experience. From watching the farm animals to exploring the hiking trails and soaking in the breathtaking mountain views, it’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves nature, photography, or simply a peaceful day out.