Escape to Dullstroom

Blue Crane (Anthropoides paradiseus) adult standing in field”n”nDullstroom, South Africa November

This charming village is a gateway to the Kruger Lowveld and lies a mere two-hour drive from Gauteng. A sought-after weekend getaway, one can easily be drawn in by its charm and eclectic atmosphere. A popular fishing retreat, this village is known for being the highest village in all of South Africa and for its low temperatures. A favourite stop enroute to the Kruger National Park, Dullstroom is quickly becoming THE holiday destination of choice.

Here’s the ultimate Dullstroom bucket list:

  1. Go flyfishing

That’s a given for Dullstroom, right? As the flyfishing capital of SA, Dullstroom really lives up to its name. The dams are unlike any other as they are well-stocked and hold some of the best trout around.

  • The Highest trains station in South Africa

As the highest village in South Africa, we reckon everything else will be too! Dullstroom’s Railway Station is the highest in SA at 2077m above sea, quite a feat hey! What made this railway station even more special was that it was well-maintained and was often the recipient of many awards for its pristine condition. Currently not in operation, one can wonder around a revel at what was once an incredible era of rail travel.

  • Taste a brew, or two!

Visit Anvil Ale Brewhouse which has become a favourite with travellers and locals alike. With award winning brews like the Blond Ale and the Black Anvil, we’re sure that it’ll become your favourite hangout spot when in town. The secret ingredient is said to be water sourced from the sub-alpine springs of the Steenkamsberge, which could explain its popularity.

  • Fancy a round of golf?

With its championship level golf course, Highland Gate Estate is a favourite destination for those wanting to take it easy. This estate spans over 700 hectares, most of which have been left untouched.

  • See South Africa’s national bird

Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve is home to breeding populations of the Blue Crane, which is South Africa’s national bird. Other types of bird found at the reserve that are the critically endangered are the Wattled Crane and the Crowned Crane, which is endangered. Lying just 13km from Dullstroom, the reserve consists of unending grasslands and life sustaining wetlands.