The Upside Down House in Harties, also known as the "Hillbrow House," is a unique and captivating attraction that has gained significant popularity among tourists and locals alike. Located in the picturesque Hartbeespoort area, this quirky structure offers a fun and Instagram-worthy experience. If you're planning a visit, here's a comprehensive guide on how to get there and what to expect.
Before we dive into the directions, let's briefly explore what makes the Upside Down House such a fascinating place. The house, designed by architect Jan Smuts, was built in the 1920s and later turned into a tourist attraction in 2015. It's not just an upside-down house; it's a fully functional home with furniture, appliances, and even a swimming pool, all defying gravity in a delightfully disorienting way.
Getting to the Upside Down House: Directions
The Upside Down House is situated in the heart of Hartbeespoort, making it easily accessible from major cities like Johannesburg and Pretoria. Here are the directions from both cities:
From Johannesburg
Start by getting onto the N14 highway heading west. Continue on the N14 until you reach the R511 exit towards Hartbeespoort. Take the R511 and follow it until you reach the R104. Turn left onto the R104 and continue until you see the Upside Down House on your right.
Alternatively, you can use the following GPS coordinates to navigate to the house: S25° 47' 41.5", E27° 44' 36.7".
From Pretoria
From Pretoria, take the N14 highway heading east. Continue on the N14 until you reach the R511 exit towards Hartbeespoort. Follow the same route as described above from the R511.
Or, you can use the GPS coordinates mentioned earlier to guide you to the house.
What to Expect at the Upside Down House
Now that you know how to get there, let's talk about what you can expect during your visit. The Upside Down House is not just a visual spectacle; it's an interactive experience that allows you to explore every room and even take a dip in the upside-down pool.
Exploring the House
Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the house's unique exterior, with its roof acting as the foundation. Inside, you'll find a fully furnished home with a living room, kitchen, bedrooms, and even a bathroom. Each room is designed to give you a sense of disorientation, with furniture and decor hanging from the ceiling.
Don't forget to look up (or down, depending on how you see it) to appreciate the creative use of space and gravity-defying design elements.
The Upside Down Pool
One of the most Instagram-worthy spots at the Upside Down House is the swimming pool. Located in the garden, the pool appears to be hanging from the sky, with water cascading down onto the grass below. It's a surreal sight that's perfect for a fun photo opportunity.
While it might look like a dream come true for swimmers, the pool is not open for public use due to safety reasons. However, you can still enjoy the unique sight and snap some amazing photos.
Visiting the Upside Down House is an unforgettable experience that's perfect for a fun day out with family or friends. So, gather your crew, follow the directions above, and get ready to turn your world upside down. After all, not every day do you get to explore a house that's literally topsy-turvy!