The Big Red Barn is located in Olifantsfontein (or close to Irene in Pretoria) and there are so many great activities here, one activity includes their hiking trails.
The red barn is located on a farm and the distinctive Big Red Barn is an antique hay barn that was redesigned into a large and spacious restaurant. I’ll get more into all the other activities to do on the farm, but let’s first focus on the hiking trails.
With almost no elevation, this is the perfect place for beginner hikers who wants to get into hiking or for people who want to take a stroll through the forest with their family or friends.
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We made our way to the Big Red Barn at around 2 o’clock the afternoon and we only found two other hiking couples on the trail. There were however many mountain bikers in the area. Luckily, the mountain bike trails and hiking trails are on separate trails and cross only a few times.
We opted for the 5km trail, as we did start it a bit late and weren’t quite sure how long it would take. There isn’t much information online as to how long the trails take.
We ended the day with a quick drink at the restaurant located at the Big Red Barn, which was very busy at that time.
General information about the Big Red Barn Trails
Location
Situated in the Olifantfontein area, you can follow the GPS Coordinates that’ll lead you right to the entrance. There is ample parking available and once parked make your way to the yellow caravan to pay the entrance fee. You cannot miss the caravan, as it does stand out.
Price
2022
Walking and running trails:
- Adults – R40pp
- Children – R30pp
- Pensioners – R30pp
MTB trails:
- Adults – R60pp
- Children under 12 – R40pp
- Pensioners – R40pp
You can also buy an annual ticket for R1250pp
* Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash *
Also, take note that they only take Debit Card, Credit Card, or Snap Scan, but NO CASH!
Operating Hours
The Big Red Barn is open seven days a week.
Winter (May to September)
- 07:00 to 16:30
Summer (September to April)
- 07:00 to 17:30
Hiking Trails
The start for all the trails begins right behind the yellow caravan. You can pass through the ‘Welcome to the Big Red Barn sign and then make your way to the left. Just make sure you follow the trail for hikers, and not the MBT one.
There are three trails available:
Route 1
The first trail is only 2.5 km long. This super easy hike will lead you through the forest and then you’ll get to the sign indicating the turn-off to the left for this trail. If you choose to rather do the other trails, then you can continue to the right.
Route 2
The second route is a 5 km trail and this was the trail we did. It took about an hour and fifteen minutes. We did take it slow, so it can be done in less time. At about 1.5 km you’ll get to this massive statue before heading back into the forest area. There is a lot of shading but do still bring some sunscreen and enough water. There are signs every km, so it is easy to keep track of how far you’ve hiked.
Route 3
The last route is a 10 km route. It mostly follows the 5km trail and around 4km you’ll take the trail to the right if you want to continue with the 10km trail. Luckily there is a sign, so you won’t get lost.
Other activities at the Big Red Barn
What is fun about the Big Red Barn is that you can make a whole day of it. There is something for everyone.
Mountain Bike Trails
This is probably the most popular activity on the farm. There are many trails available on the farm and even ones specially for kiddies. There are four routes in total.
- Route 1: 42km
- Route 2: 22km
- Route 3: 12km
- Route 4: 5km
The routes are marked and easy to follow.
Market Day
There is a market every first and last Saturday of every month. You’ll find all the different stalls from 08:00 to 14:30. There’s some great live music and different things to shop for: like food, crafts, furniture, etc.
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Restaurant (Big Red Barn)
There are two restaurants on the farm, but the main one is the Big Red Barn. There are plenty of tables available and it is perfect for children as well. The massive lawn, with activities like electric go-karts and the jumping park, will keep the kids busy whilst you enjoy a hot cup of coffee.
They are open from 7:00 to 18:00.
Clay Cafè
The Clay Cafè is perfect for those artsy people. Choose an unfired bisque and your colour scheme and create a personal and unique item. You can spend the day painting and also enjoy something to eat or/and drink.
They are open Wednesday to Monday from 09:00 to 17:00.
Acrobranch
This is the perfect activity for adventurous souls. They are open from Wednesday to Sunday from 08:30 to 18:00 and there are many different courses to choose from.
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