3 Silo’s – East London’s fantastic outdoor Adventure Park
If you are not a mountain bike trail enthusiast, you may be forgiven for not knowing about 3 Silo’s Adventure Farm situated in Thorn Park just off the N6. Sadly, I am not an enthusiast, however the great reviews I have heard about 3 Silo’s had me heading out over the long weekend to see it for myself, and boy it did not disappoint.
Situated on a beautiful farm between a long row of blue gum trees and a gorgeous old farmhouse, you will find the 3 Silo’s Cafe offering indoor seating as well as two outdoor patios and some garden benches. No surprise, the Café is extremely popular and filled with the cycling crowd and their families, but has also gained a great reputation as a country café and outdoor destination, which makes it a great destination for people of all ages. This was evident on my visit where cyclists were mixing with children who were riding bikes, playing on the large lawn and climbing on the jungle gym – as well as with senior citizens who were relaxing on the veranda enjoying a light meal, and every age group in between.
If you are a lover of the outdoors and an active lifestyle, 3 Silo’s is basically your go to one-stop shop! They are most well known for their MTB trails and offer four trails (20.5km, 17km, 10.7km and 4km) that are suitable for all MTB enthusiasts from novices to the pros. They even offer trails for kiddies that are 7.5km long with shortened options of 4km and 2km. The 7.5km option offers an exciting 80m floating pallet bridge to make the trail even more fun. And guess what? They are open 24/7 365! Yes, they work on an honesty box system so you can go at any time of the day or night… but if you do go at night, it is recommended you watch out for the wild animals on the trails.
3 Silo’s Adventure Farm has recently also become East London’s newest Parkrun destination. Offering plenty of parking, this free weekly 5km run through wonderful scenery and wildlife is extremely well supported. No dogs are allowed and due to the nature of the course it is not pram friendly, however this has not deterred the many Parkrun supporters who love their new venue. There is nothing like going for a run then sitting down with friends to a hearty breakfast.
If you just love walking, game-viewing and bird-watching, 3 Silo’s has plenty to offer as it is situated on a game farm amid indigenous forest and natural veld. It is a wonderful and safe environment that attracts everyone including classes of school children who are eager to learn about our local nature. Nyala, blue duiker, bushbuck, impala, mongoose, blue wildebeest, jackal buzzards and crested eagles, all reside on the game farm and you will be rewarded with these magical sites on your adventure walk.
3 Silo’s Adventure Farm harks back to the days where we lived outdoors, got lots of exercise, ate good hearty meals and enjoyed life. Now that the secret is out, you will not be forgiven if you don’t at least give it a try.