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When the park reopened in late 2020 after lockdown the space never looked better, with some exciting new offerings that cement its status as a leading sculpture park.
For foodies the big new attraction is the dedicated restaurant And then there was fire. Describing itself as a 'tapas cafe and farm table', the restaurant is the work of one of the co-founders of Che Argentinian Grill and focuses on flame-grilled dishes paired with lush salads. The results are excellent.
Reservations are essential and for weekend bookings there's a long waiting list. They are open on Thursdays and Fridays as well as on the weekend, so if you want to guarantee a booking it's worth planning a weekday visit – even better yet you'll have the park to yourself. Reservations can be made online here. Note that with a lunch reservation secured you are entitled to reduced entrance fees to the park (normally R120, you will pay R70 at the entrance).
Reinforcing its position as one of the most upmarket attractions in the Cradle of Humankind region, in the farmland adjoining the park (where resident artists currently stay) a chic new boutique hotel called Fifty Eight is currently under construction led by the Nirox team. The new retreat will offer a range of exclusive stayover options including farmhouse accommodation. Bookings for rooms in the farmhouse are now open - enquire about booking at farmhouse58.co. Coming later in the year are a collection of 20 private villas (steadily built over 2021 and 2022) and a 'sanctuary' of 35 minimalist suites (opening in late 2021/2022).
Complimenting the boutique hotel offerings, also in the works are a range of wellness and meditation-focused activities and workshops, as well as hiking and cycling trails for guests and The Third Space, a lounge and 'gathering space' serving light meals and drinks.
ENTRANCE AND TICKETING FOR NIROX SCULPTURE PARK
The sculpture park is open to the public on weekends and public holidays from 10:00-16:00. The restaurant is open Thu-Sun from 11:00-17:00 (kitchen closes 16:30) and as it is located inside the park if you have a Thursday or Friday lunch reservation you will also be able to access the park. Note that on many weekends the park hosts concerts and festivals and you will need to buy a ticket for these in advance. Keep your eye on their Instagram page for any upcoming events.
Entrance costs R120 (R70 with restaurant reservations), kids R60. Park at the parking marked Gate 1 and from there follow the signs for the ticketing entrance.
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