It is strange how sometimes a small unknown place suddenly becomes a real hotspot. There is nothing dull about Dullstroom. It’s another one of Mpumalanga’s misty towns. It has always been there en route to the Kruger National Park and the many other attractions around Sabie and Graskop. Everybody knew Dullstroom as a trout fishing area that appeal to anglers and fishermen but that was it. Overnight it became a favourite weekend away spot.

WHAT TO DO IN DULLSTROOM

For fishermen interested in fly-fishing there is no other answer but to buy all the goodies associated with fly-fishing and the weekend is made. Dullstroom has three renowned shops catering for these needs.

Dullstroom is also the ideal place for fitness fanatics. With its high altitude it is a perfect training area for athletes. It has become so popular with athletes that the Dullstroom Altitude Training Centre Gym was established in 2000. Many cyclist, Olympic long distance athletes and ice skaters from all over the world come to this centre for training.

Just outside Dullstroom there is horse and pony riding, clay pigeon shooting, bird parks and play parks for the children.

Pilgrim’s Rest, Sabie, Hazyview and Graskop are less than an half an hour away from Dullstroom.A nice outing for the rest of the family while the fishermen are searching for dinner.

Dullstroom has its own selection of artists and art galleries. At the I Create art studio there are several art and crafts courses available for adults and children. A craft market is held every last Saturday of the month where these artworks can be sold.

WHERE TO STAY IN DULLSTROOM

If you look at all the venues that have guest accommodation it has to be more than the permanent residencies. The choice is overwhelming.

Critchley Hackle is an upmarket hotel where most rooms are lake-facing. The standard and tower rooms have a fireplace for those cold misty days. No children under 12 are allowed and over weekends booking have to be for at least two nights.

The Dullstroom Inn is popular for its lively pub where you can have a hearty meal in front of log fire. If you don’t mind bright flowery décor the rooms are adequate and comfortable.

A bit out of town is the Kloppenheim Estate with all the luxuries in their suites and lodges. It is well equipped for conferences even tough they seem to favour the flowery theme for their conference rooms as well. It might be an attempt to create the country atmosphere inside as well.

For a big family or more than one family Pine Cove is an excellent choice. It sleeps 10 people in a 4 bedroom house with a loft for all the extra children. It has all the necessary luxuries in a peaceful farm setting with an exquisite view over the lake. The room décor is stylish and elegant.

WHERE TO EAT IN DULLSTROOM

Apart from all the hotels that have their own restaurants and dining rooms there are numerous other restaurants to pick from.

Harries pancakes (the same franchise as the one in Graskop) is definitely a must.

For something different and only if you like Whisky, try Wild about Whisky for tasting or just a drink. They claim to have over 400 different whiskies.

The Portuguese rolls at Canimambo compete very strongly with all the other dishes for the number one place. It is an absolute treat. The focus here is on Portuguese cuisine with Espetada’s and fish dishes to tempt the strongest.

The romantic and serene atmosphere of Dullstroom enhanced by the misty lakes, log fire nights and absolute peace is a rest for a tired soul.