Northcliff Ridge - from top to bottom

Sat Feb 4, 09:00 - Sat Feb 4, 12:00

Olivia Coffeebake Parking Lot

ABOUT

One of the most prominent outcrops along Joburg’s northern ridges, Northcliff is renowned for its landmark water tower, Jacaranda-lined streets and views all the way to the Magaliesberg. 


Join our expert guides for a trek up the ridge, ending with the best view in Joburg (the lookout point is currently closed to the public but we've arranged special permission)! Along the way, we’ll also chart the beautiful heritage and contemporary homes dotted along the cliffs, including houses by renowned architects Wilhelm Pabst, Louis Louw, Ian Gandini and M.J. Harris. 


Plus we’ll unpack some interesting histories - after all, no visit to Northcliff is complete without introducing some of the suburb’s more prominent personalities, including anti-apartheid activist Dr Beyers Naude and everyone's favourite 90’s chat show host, Felicia Mabuza-Suttle. 


The suburb of Northcliff Ridge was established in 1934 by Fred Cohen, who built himself a palatial Old Hollywood-style mansion on Hearn Drive. As part of the tour, we’ll see this house and explore the site of the tearoom and ‘plastic’ theatre that Cohen constructed right at the top of the hill - before it burned down! 


After enjoying the panoramic views from the top of the ridge, we’ll be walking back down or you can call an Uber.


Please note: this is a long, strenuous walk with uphills and uneven surfaces. Remember to wear good walking shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen and water! Not recommended for people with mobility issues.

DIRECTIONS

Northcliff Ridge - from top to bottom
Olivia Coffeebake Parking Lot
175 Beyers Naude Dr, Northcliff, Johannesburg, 2195
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