Dullstroom, located in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, is a charming little town that is popular for its fishing, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities. It's also known for its beautiful scenery, quaint shops, and cozy restaurants.
Getting There:
Dullstroom is located about 240 km east of Johannesburg and 160 km west of the Kruger National Park. The most convenient way to get there is by car. You can rent a car at the airport in Johannesburg and drive to Dullstroom. The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Alternatively, you can take a shuttle from Johannesburg to Dullstroom, but this is a less common option.
Accommodation:
Dullstroom has a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some popular options:
Critchley Hackle Lodge - This charming lodge is located in the heart of Dullstroom and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Prices start from R2,600 per night.
Walkersons Hotel and Spa - This luxurious hotel is located just outside of Dullstroom and offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a restaurant. Prices start from R5,000 per night.
Dullstroom Inn - This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in the center of town and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant. Prices start from R800 per night.
Things to Do:
Fishing - Dullstroom is known for its trout fishing. There are many dams and rivers in the area where you can fish for trout. Some popular spots include the Dullstroom Dam, the Mavungana Flyfishing Center, and the Highland Giants Estate.
Hiking - Dullstroom is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys, making it a great destination for hiking. Some popular hiking trails include the Dullstroom Nature Reserve, the Suikerboschkop Hiking Trail, and the Oak Lane Trail.
Birdwatching - Dullstroom is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds in the area. Some popular spots for birdwatching include the Dullstroom Bird of Prey and Rehabilitation Center, the Echo Caves, and the Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve.
Shopping - Dullstroom is known for its quaint shops and boutiques. You can find a variety of items, from handmade crafts to gourmet food products. Some popular shops include the Field and Stream, The Art of Brewing, and The Clock Shop.
Eating and Drinking - Dullstroom has a variety of restaurants and pubs that offer delicious food and drink. Some popular options include the Duck and Trout Restaurant, the Mayfly Restaurant, and Wild about Whisky.
Golf - Dullstroom is home to the Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate, which offers a beautiful 18-hole golf course surrounded by stunning scenery.
Horse Riding - There are several horse riding operators in the area that offer horse riding tours through the beautiful countryside.
Day Trips:
If you have extra time, there are several day trips you can take from Dullstroom:
Kruger National Park - The Kruger National Park is located about 160 km from Dullstroom and is a must-see destination for wildlife lovers.
Sudwala Caves - The Sudwala Caves are located about 80 km from Dullstroom and are one of the oldest cave systems in the world.
Panorama Route - The Panorama Route is a scenic drive that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in South Africa, including the Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, and Bourke's Luck Potholes.
Sabie Waterfalls - The Sabie Waterfalls are a series of beautiful waterfalls located about 50 km from Dullstroom. Some popular waterfalls to visit include Bridal Veil Falls, Lone Creek Falls, and Mac Mac Falls.
Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains - The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 80 km from Dullstroom. These mountains are known for their unique geology and are a popular destination for hiking and exploring.
Tips:
Pack for all weather - Dullstroom's weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all types of weather, including warm and cold clothing, rain gear, and sunscreen.
Book activities in advance - Many of the popular activities in Dullstroom, such as fishing and horse riding, require reservations, so be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Try the local cuisine - Dullstroom is known for its delicious local cuisine, including trout, biltong, and craft beer. Be sure to try some of the local dishes while you're there.
Respect nature - Dullstroom is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife, so be sure to respect nature and follow the rules and regulations when hiking, fishing, and exploring the area.
Dullstroom is a beautiful and peaceful town that offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors. Whether you're interested in fishing, hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery and local cuisine, Dullstroom has something for everyone. With its convenient location and variety of accommodation options, it's the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or longer vacation.
Comments