South Africa, a country renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and diverse wildlife, offers travellers a unique blend of experiences. Beyond the well-trodden paths lies a world of unconventional tourism, where peculiar and offbeat attractions beckon the curious traveller. From quirky museums to unexpected natural wonders, South Africa harbours a cache of oddities that leave a lasting impression. Here are five of the weirdest tourist attractions that are bound to captivate your imagination.
1. A Surreal Wonderland: The Owl House in Nieu-Bethesda
Located in the small town of Nieu-Bethesda, The Owl House is a mesmerizing testament to the eccentric artistry of Helen Elizabeth Martins. In the heart of the Karoo desert, this otherworldly residence is adorned with countless sculptures and creations that reflect Martins’ inner world. The Owl House exudes an aura of enchantment, with its labyrinthine passages, glittering glass walls, and statues of owls and other creatures. The artistry within this unconventional abode provides a unique glimpse into the mind of a true visionary.
2. A Tropical Oddity: Bathurst’s Big Pineapple
Venture to the outskirts of Bathurst, and you’ll encounter an oversized, three-story pineapple that seems strangely out of place. Deemed to be “Bathhurst’s favourite fruit”, the Big Pineapple is a quirky monument to the local pineapple industry, serving as both a museum and a kitschy tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the ins and outs of pineapple cultivation, enjoy a panoramic view from the observation deck, and even indulge in pineapple-themed treats. This peculiar landmark offers a blend of fun and education that’s hard to find anywhere else.
3. A Giant’s Abode: The Shoe House of Ohrigstad
Nestled in Ohrigstad, Mpumalanga, the Shoe House defies expectations with its colossal shoe-shaped structure. This unusual building was the brainchild of artist and hotelier Ron Van Zyl, who was inspired by his love for footwear. The interior of the Shoe House is just as whimsical as its exterior, featuring intricate woodwork and charmingly eccentric furnishings. The property includes a guesthouse as well as a tea garden and restaurant. Adding to the odd feeling of this attraction is the fact that the shoe is also the home of The Shoe Ministries. Ron van Zyl has more than a dozen books and numerous articles and the impact is clear.
4. Defying Gravity in Hartebeespoort: The Upside-Down House
Tucked away in the small town of Hartebeespoort near Pretoria and Johannesburg, the Upside-Down House defies the laws of physics and leaves visitors questioning their sense of reality. This mind-bending attraction presents an entire home flipped upside down, from furniture to fixtures. Walking through its topsy-turvy rooms is an amusing experience that challenges perceptions and offers a playful twist on the everyday. This is definitely, not something you should travel specifically for, but if you are in the area feel free to grab a few interesting Instagram photos. Outdoor play areas for the kids add to the rather brief upside-down home experience.
5. The last outpost: The Giant Postbox in Calvinia
In the charming town of Calvinia, a colossal post box has emerged as a whimsical landmark, captivating both residents and visitors alike. Standing as a towering ode to communication, this giant red mailbox has become more than just a receptacle for letters—it symbolizes a community’s commitment to staying connected in an ever-evolving digital age. As letters and packages continue to find their way into its impressive embrace, the colossal post box stands as a reminder of the enduring power of written correspondence in our fast-paced world.
6. Weaving an oddity: The Spider Lady of Hanover
While she is called the spider lady of Hanover, it would be more correct to call Marie de Jager, the Spider Lady of the Driekoppen Farm, Hanover District, N1, Upper Karoo. With a penchant for arachnids, she has transformed her residence into a mesmerizing sanctuary, zoo and museum to these misunderstood creatures and created an odd little tourist attraction at the same time. As stories of her devotion to these misunderstood creatures spread, the “Spider Lady” of Hanover weaves not only silk but also a sense of wonder, embodying the town’s embrace of unconventional beauty.
While South Africa can hardly match America in terms of its tourism oddities, it is nice to know that they are out there, usually at the end of a long and dusty road. As travellers venture beyond the ordinary, they’ll discover a realm of eccentricity and wonder that adds an extra layer of depth to their South African experience. These peculiar sites remind us that, sometimes, it’s the offbeat and unusual that leave the most indelible memories.
