Tucked between Hoedspruit’s citrus orchards and the wild edges of the greater Kruger lies the charming Bosveld Centre — a place that blends heritage with fresh purpose.
Once home to the beloved Bosveld Slaghuis (Butchery in Afrikaans), this nostalgic space has purposefully evolved into a meaningful gathering point for both locals and visitors alike.
I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Patrick Jordan, the driving force behind the Centre’s transformation. Over a coffee and the soft buzz of a weekday morning, we spoke about Bosveld’s evolving role and future aspirations within the Hoedspruit landscape.
Our conversation touched on thoughtful development, community collaboration, and the exciting vision for events that celebrate both the local culture and the surrounding bushveld lifestyle.
FROM SLAGHUIS TO SYMBOL
To understand Bosveld Centre’s present and future, we must first honour its past. For decades, Bosveld Slaghuis stood as a cornerstone of Hoedspruit — not just a butcher, but a social gathering spot deeply embedded in local life.
With Hoedspruit’s continued growth and the evolving tourism economy, it became clear that the space could take on a new purpose.
Now, under the guidance of Patrick, the hubs General Manager, the Bosveld Centre is evolving with intention.
“We didn’t want to erase what was,” Patrick explains. “We wanted to build on it — to honour the land, the people, and the spirit of this place.”
A HUB OF FAMILY, NATURE AND NOSTALGIA
The Bosveld Centre is now a vibrant, family-oriented destination offering something for everyone. Parents can enjoy a coffee while kids explore the playground, try mini-golf, or dive into paintball.
It’s a space where visitors can wander through boutique shops, taste homemade treats at the deli, or cool down with artisanal gelato.
What truly sets Bosveld apart though is its respect for nature. “We’re building around the trees, not over them,” Patrick points out.
His words capture the very soul of Bosveld Centre’s vision — a place where development doesn’t come at the cost of nature, but moves with it.
Unlike many modern projects where trees are often seen as obstacles, Bosveld Centre embraces them as part of its identity.
As far as possible, existing trees have been protected, woven thoughtfully into the layout rather than removed.
Gravel paths curve naturally between them, shaded seating invites visitors to linger under their canopies, and indigenous gardens mirror the untouched beauty of the surrounding bushveld.
This is not a space imposed on the landscape — it’s one that honours it, blending into the environment with humility and care.
MEET THE BUSINESSES BEHIND THE VILLAGE:
Bosveld Village is a true reflection of Hoedspruit’s spirit — a balance between everyday essentials and vibrant experiences.
With offerings spanning from fine deli goods, family cafés, and creative boutiques to health, education, outdoor adventures, and conservation, the Village is designed to serve the whole community.
It’s not just a shopping stop — it’s a destination for locals and visitors alike to enjoy, explore, and connect.
Food & Beverage
Kampvuur Meat & Deli
📞 072 627 5503 | ✉️ Kampvuurquality@gmail.com
The Gelato Spot
📞 076 792 0946 | ✉️ yolandavanwyk@gmail.com
Anne’s Cotton Club Café
📞 079 286 5600
Hoedspruit Brewing Company
📞 079 527 7466 / 060 970 7771
Tasty Bites
📞 074 075 3139
Retail & Lifestyle
Dinah’s Toys and Gifts
📞 079 697 3101 | ✉️ dinahhendrik@gmail.com
Yellow Bird Collection
📞 083 306 5637 / 083 378 4405
Bosveld Village Arts and Crafts
📞 +27 83 969 4111 | ✉️ williamkirubi@yahoo.com
Woodlands Garden Centre
📞 060 529 4496 | ✉️ Woodlandsofficemanager@gmail.com
Caleb Leadwood Exquisite Art
📞 074 458 2829
Health & Wellness
Wildscapes Veterinary & Conservation Services
📞 071 396 2942 / 072 094 0336 | ✉️ Leah@wildscapesvet.com
Hoedspruit Chiropractic
📞 063 505 7385
Occupational Therapy – Kirsten Jordaan
📞 084 208 4646
Souljah Ink Tattoo & Piercing
📞 076 890 9004 | ✉️ Souljahink333@gmail.com
Rootz Hair Co
📞 079 987 1186
Education & Kids
Cambrilearn Preparatory
📞 082 888 8700
Kidz@Bosveld Playground
📞 078 448 4142 | ✉️ manganyiannikie737@gmail.com
Adventure & Outdoor Activities
Hoedspruit Adventure Centre
📞 063 539 0505 | ✉️ Info@hoedspruitadventurecentre.com
Bosveld Adventure Centre
📞 082 806 9937 | ✉️ wouter@pmehoed.co.za
HSA Action Sports
📞 064 030 6170 / 083 303 2548 | ✉️ Action@hoedspruitsports.co.za
Professional Services
CPK Tucker Attorneys
📞 082 909 3448 | ✉️ Chris@cpktuckerattorneys.com
Industrial Liquor Distributors
📞 083 463 2253 | ✉️ hoedspruit@i-liquor.co.za
Someshap Production
📞 082 558 6462 | ✉️ Alex@someshap.com
Conservation & Non-Profit
Timbavati Foundation
📞 060 508 5961 / 051 004 0543 | ✉️ foundation@timbavati.co.za
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
📞 015 793 2394 | ✉️ reception@timbavati.co.za
Services
Bosveld Village Car Wash
📞 083 969 4111 (WhatsApp)
INTENTIONAL GROWTH AND SIGNATURE EVENTS :
Patrick shared a bigger vision with me: Bosveld as a venue for cultural connection and celebration. “If we want Hoedspruit to be a year-round destination, we need anchor events that bring people together,” he explains.
The Centre is preparing to host four major annual events:
– A festive Christmas celebration with all the magic of a Lowveld holiday.
– A family-focused Easter weekend packed with activities, treats, and community spirit.
– The Hoedspruit Beer Festival, shining a spotlight on regional brews and good vibes.
– A proudly South African Braai Day, bringing people together with food, fire, and music.
These events are more than merely marketing tools. They’re designed to create moments and memories for locals and visitors alike.
ROOTED IN HERITAGE, GROWING WITH VISION:
Development in Hoedspruit comes with a responsibility: to grow without losing the town’s soul. As tourism and property investment rise, Bosveld Centre is committed to authenticity.
“We’re not rushing to fill every space,” Patrick says. “We want to evolve with the town — to offer what people need, not just what’s profitable.”
Future plans include a dedicated walking trail through the greenbelt behind the centre — an open, accessible space that encourages calm and connection to the environment.
THE ART OF COMMUNITY COLLABORATION:
Patrick sees untapped potential in local artists and artisans. “Hoedspruit is full of talent, and we haven’t tapped into that enough,” he admits.
The Centre plans to grow its partnerships by introducing seasonal markets, creative exhibitions, and workshops — creating platforms to showcase local culture.
He also stressed the importance of celebrating the citrus industry — a foundational part of Hoedspruit’s economy.
“Tourism is big — but agriculture built this place”. A long-term goal includes curating an exhibit that honours both the citrus legacy and the safari connection.
Q&A HIGHLIGHTS:
During my conversation with Patrick, we uncovered some of the heart and thinking behind Bosveld Centre’s unique approach. Here are a few standout moments and insights that capture the spirit of the project —
What sets Bosveld Centre apart?
“The history matters. Bosveld has always been part of the fabric of this community, and we’re just building on that foundation. There’s a sense of familiarity and heart here that you don’t always find in new developments.”
What’s your vision for the future?
“To grow steadily with the town, while always staying family-friendly and grounded in nature.”
How do you want to see the community evolve around Bosveld?
“With openness and collaboration. We want ideas. We want feedback. The Centre should feel like it belongs to everyone.”
A REFLECTION OF HOEDSPRUIT ITSELF:
The Bosveld Centre is more than just a commercial space — It’s Hoedspruit, written in stone and shaded by trees. It blends bushveld beauty with entrepreneurial spirit.
It honours tradition while welcoming change. It’s where families come to relax, where friendships are formed, and where community continues to thrive.
Thanks to Patrick Jordan’s steady leadership, the Centre is carving out a role that feels both grounded and dynamic — a space that grows with the town, but never loses touch with its roots.
Whether you’re a tourist passing through, a local with deep roots, or a newcomer falling in love with this corner of the world — the Bosveld Centre is a place worth visiting, and even more worth belonging to.