worldcup2010

Rustenburg

Royal Bafokeng Stadium

Where's the game on?

The Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace, eight miles from Rustenburg city centre, is named after the Bafokeng people who live in the area.

In 1999, the Bafokeng won a legal battle, which entitled them to 20 per cent of the platinum which is mined on their historical land. The Stadium's construction was completely funded by the Royal Bafokeng community, an administrative entity presiding over the mines.

South Africa played a World Cup qualifying game against Bakino Faso in 2001, and won 2-1. It has been host to many Premier Soccer League games despite Rustenburg not having its own team.

Some of what the venue loses in historical significance, is made up by the excellent facilities.

And the rest of the city?

Platinum mine: Rustenburg earth holds great riches

This might as well be known as the "Village near Sun City" as the nearby casino/hotel complex is the star attraction. 30 km from Rustenburg, the complex, which includes the sumptuous Palace of the Lost City, is a playground for the rich and famous - or anyone else looking to have fun.

Rustenburg itself, founded in 1851 by Voortrekker settlers (Rustenburg means 'place of rest') lies in the heart of the savannah bushveld and is a quiet city at the foothills of the breathtaking Magaliesburg Mountains - making it a tactical region for many battles for land during the early 1800s.

The region is massively rich in mineral wealth and boosts the world's richest platinum mines.

Located on the Highveld Plateau in the north western part of South Africa, Rustenburg enjoys a sub-tropical climate with temperatures around 16-20°C during winter (during the Lions tour), dropping to 5-10°C at night. Don't expect any rain during winter.

While you're there...

Sun City: Head for the bright lights

Even if you don't stay as Sun City, it's worth a visit: The Valley of Waves is an enormous theme park featuring water rides, an artificial sea (complete with waves) and a 25-hectare jungle.

There is also a world-class golf course to go along with a number a casinos. If you're looking for a safari experience, the Pilanesberg National Park is a 30-minute drive away and boasts all the 'big five' - elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo and leopard. Winter is the best time for game-driving as it is dry, cold and the animals are more likely to pop out in the day for a drink from a watering hole.

The Hartebeesport Dam, a 40-minute drive towards Pretoria, is a getaway for many local people, and the easy pace of life at the dam makes it a great place to unwind.

A cold one and some sustenance?

Sun City restaurant: The bright lights we mentioned

You guessed it, Sun City is the place to go for if you're looking for everything from the finest dining imaginable to fast food. In town, the Cape Town Fish Market is a decent spot for Mediterranean-style food.

There really isn't much else in town at all, but if you can find one, bush pubs in the countryside around will do some fine steaks.

You'd have to get there first, mind

Rustenburg is situated 112km northwest of Johannesburg and OR Tambo international airport on the N4 highway.

Once clear of Pretoria, it's easy enough to drive, so hiring a car is your best option.

There are also bus links from Johannesburg and Pretoria - the airport will provide plenty of info as will your hotel - and there is an airport at Sun City if you've got the cash to splash.