Ah, Paris. When you hear the name, it likely conjures up charming and romantic images of the French capital – art, architectural masterpieces, fashion and haute cuisine, among other things.
However, for adventure-seeking souls and money-conscious folks alike, Paris is a dream getaway that, in this fragile economy, comes with sky-high expenses.
Indeed, South Africans have to fork out astronomical amounts for flights, accommodation, transport and food. This is before they can even begin to soak up the culture, history and beauty that the City of Light has to offer.
Fortunately, you can experience the best of Paris without breaking the bank or even leaving the country! In fact, all it takes is a trip up to Hartbeespoort, North West.
BIENVENUE À LITTLE PARIS
Little Paris, as the name suggests, is an enchanting replica of the famous city, albeit at a smaller scale.
Located in Hartbeespoort on the R511 – approximately seventy kilometres north of Johannesburg – it was originally established in 2014 as a set for the Afrikaans rom-com flick, French Toast.
Fast-forward to the present, and the set is now officially a tourist attraction. Once you walk through the cobblestoned square, surrounded by verdant greenery and parked bicycles, it feels like you’re entering the heart of Paris itself.
The vicinity boasts a stylish clothing boutique, a deli, a gift shop, and a freshwater aquarium and bird garden. On the food and beverage side of things, the French Toast Coffee Café doesn’t disappoint. It offers a wide range of coffees, Parisienne-styled sandwiches, croissants, macaroons, pain au chocolat and, of course, French toast.
BELOVED LANDMARKS BROUGHT TO LIFE
Adding to the allure of Little Paris are the presence of two iconic landmarks: the Eiffel Tower and the Pont des Arts. That is to say, stunning replicas of these landmarks.
This version of the Eiffel Tower stands at 12.5 metres at the end of a lake. Whether you’re standing up close or photographing it at different angles, it certainly feels like you’re at the foot of the real thing.
The entrance leading up to the tower consists of railings that bring to mind the Pont des Arts bridge. The Padlocks famously adorn the bridge, placed there by couples to solidify their love.
Similarly, the entrance railings are bedecked in lovers’ locks. Some of these are brought from home, while others are purchased and engraved with couples’ initials on the premises. Then, you and your significant other can choose a spot on the railings to secure the lock and, hopefully, secure eternal love.
LITTLE PARIS WAITS FOR YOU
If you wish to view and take photos at the mini tower, you will have to pay an entrance fee of R50 per person. Children under the age of 12 can enter for free. Fortunately, this charge only applies over weekends, public holidays and school holidays.
It also doesn’t apply if you’re having a sit-down meal or coffee, or if you’re buying a padlock to secure to the railings.
All in all, you don’t have to go far or spend exorbitant amounts of money to enjoy French culture. Little Paris of Hartbeespoort is a local gem, and when it comes to holidaying, it’s a shining example of looking no further than your own backyard.
