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Smalltown chutzpah
Jan Harmsgat Se Agterplaas
Metal drag queen at Jan Harmsgat se Agterplaas
© Darling Lama Productions
Did you know?
At 3,106.75 carats, the Cullinan Diamond (or Great Star of Africa) is the largest rough gem quality diamond ever found.
Jan Harmsgat se Agterplaas is the brain-child of owner Jan Harms Vorster, a born- and-bred Cullinan resident with a flair for the creative. If you don't know it, Cullinan was the spot where the world's largest diamond was found, but these days the real gem in the rough is this offbeat art gallery/live music venue that attracts travellers from far and wide.
This Cullinan attraction is fun from start to finish. In the front garden, two metal drag queens greet you with open arms (these unlikely mannequins are made of discarded tin cans, bottle tops and wire), that should be a sign that things are a little out of the ordinary. It only gets better from there, inside and outside you'll see artworks created from discarded materials - cement sculptures with mirrors for eyes, old kettles used as creative pot plants, pots and pans that are proud wall-hanging and a totem pole inspired by ... a Terry Pratchett novel. The place is deliciously and creatively over-the-top in so many ways and as a result it's a popular hang-out spot visitors from Johannnesburg and Pretoria.
The ‘gallery' opens up into an outside courtyard (or barnyard theatre) this is a regular haunt of some of South Africa's most famous musicians - names like Koos Kombuis, Chris Chameleon and Valiant Swart are regulars here. Guests are invited to pull up a picnic basket and listen to the music, surrounded by artworks and a sense of the fantastical.
Jan Harmsgat se Agterplaas has also become a popular wedding venue and the conference crowd are also taking to the place.
Building on the Harmsgat brand, Jan Harms also has a spa just up the drag. Zau Spa's treatments are enjoyed in the gardens under the watchful eye of concrete angels. Guests can now also stay overnight at Hys Rex @ Jan Harmsgat, why not make a weekend of it.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
For more information on Jan Harmsgat se Agterplaas call (012) 734 0536 or visit ww.janharmsgat.co.za.
Jan Harmsgat se Agterplaas is situated at 88 Oak Street, Cullinan.
How to get here
From the N1 North Freeway (Polokwane) you take the R513 towards Cullinan. Jan Harmsgat se Agterplaas is down the main drag (close to the diamond museum).
Around the area
Visit the Cullinan Diamond Mine, St George’s Anglican Church, Cullinan Square National Heritage Site, graves of Italian POW’s and lots more.
Get around
Having a car is an asset, as there is lots to see and do in the Dinokeng Tourist region.
Length of stay
It’s a great day-trip from either Johannesburg or Pretoria, or make a weekend of it. There really is so much to see in and around Cullinan.
What to pack
If you're not planning on eating at one of the fine restaurants in the area, then be sure to pack a picnic basket with all the trimmings.
Where to stay
There are a number of well-priced guest houses and homely bed and breakfasts in the Cullinan area.
What to eat
Excellent restaurants in the area - from Italian to Greek to South African.
What's happening
There is always something going on in the Dinokeng area, so be sure to check out their website: www.dinokeng.co.za
Best buys
Lots of curios, bric a brac shops, and offbeat curios on offer. Got to buy pancakes and the local pancake shop.