Situated in the diverse, vibrant province of Mpumalanga, Dullstroom is a delightful village that forms part of the Highlands Meander. This cosy, adventure-driven village is the highest in South Africa, sitting pretty at an altitude of 2100 metres above sea level on Steenkampsberg’s eastern escarpment.

Dullstroom is unequivocally known for its crystal clear dams (which lend themselves well to trout fly-fishing and other water-based activities), forested areas, colourful buildings and of course, a host of outdoor adventures. For adventurers, there’s everything from an Ernie Els-designed golf course to hiking, horse riding and more to enjoy here.

Beyond the adventure, Dullstroom also plays heavily into the arts and culture side of things. A walk around town quickly reveals a slew of lovely eateries, quirky art galleries, gin bars, craft beer breweries and a world-famous whisky bar. (If you’re keen to try crocodile, that’s also an option here – although one we gave a skip (for now)!)

There’s also plenty of excellent accommodation to choose from, with everything from stone cabins to snug guesthouses. Much of the accommodation is also pet-friendly (as are some of the cafes in town).

All of which helps make this humble, yet mighty village the perfect weekend escape or holiday destination for families with children, solo travellers and of course, couples.

Spend a Thrilling Weekend Exploring Dullstroom in Mpumalanga

For us, we had only a limited weekend to enjoy in Dullstroom during my first-ever visit to both Gauteng and Mpumalanga when we embarked on a wonderful, nearly two-week-long holiday to visit family.

And, safe to say, places like Dullstroom make this travel blogger keen to return to MP province very soon to explore all the natural beauty it has scattered across its provincial confines.

Dullstroom is truly one of the most special, beautiful towns I’ve visited in South Africa – and I’ve been to a lot of our small towns over the years! 🙂

There’s a feeling of fairytale beauty (so it comes as no surprise to see, “Attention all fairytale things” signs and other magical things found about town) – and crisp country air that makes Dullstroom feel like an international destination.

Despite the fact that it’s only a short drive from places like Middelburg, Belfast and further on, Johannesburg.

Far removed from the at times flat, red-soiled grasslands-meets-lush-greenery I’d come to associate to with Mpumalanga province, Dullstroom feels cut from a different, almost Swiss, cloth; it definitely gives off a kind of cute, European town vibe.

Arriving in Dullstroom

After a wonderful brunch at Puma Wonderfontein Service Station (I definitely recommend stopping here if you’re looking for some ready-made shop meals, baked goods or a quick pitstop meal at George’s Restaurant) – we took a slow, scenic drive into Dullstroom.

Our drive was slow mainly due to all the potholes we had to navigate on our way into Dullstroom. It’s definitely an art if you stay in MP; thankfully my partner’s a pro at it! 🙂

But, even these could not detract from the natural beauty of this quaint village and its surrounds, which, as we drove, dodging potholes and soaking up the new scenery, saw the landscape change from gentle grasslands and cattle farms to tranquil green meadows and dense woodland areas, with trees almost as far as the eye can see.

Our plan was to spend under 24 hours in Dullstroom on a romantic, yet adventurous couples’ getaway, arriving on the Saturday before leaving around mid-morning on the Sunday.

We may have only had a limited time with which to explore Dullstroom – but I made sure that we crammed in all this beautiful village has to offer.

And so, without further ado, here are my best things to do in delightful Dullstroom, Mpumalanga:

My Best Things to Do in Dullstroom, Mpumalanga

As it was early May, the town had already been already dressed in its autumn colours, shaking off the last of its pretty summer greens. While the evening- and morning-air had the bite of winter to it. (But, being used to the frigid cold of the Koo Valley in the Western Cape, that was nothing I was unfamiliar with.)

Dullstroom: A Feast for the Eyes

Our first introduction to Dullstroom was on a bustling Saturday, which revealed visiting travellers and locals lazing around in the sunshine together and a broad, busy main road (with just enough but not too much traffic to safely cross roads largely unhurried).

The colourful buildings popped with charm, inviting us to enter their cosy interiors.

Suffice to say, having spotted our first port of call on our weekend checklist, we parked and got out, ready to explore.

Browse The Clock Shop and Dullstroom Antiques

The Clock Shop was one of the first places we added to our must-visit list. We both love history and anything out of the ordinary – and a clock shop with the largest selection of clocks (in a single shop) in all the Southern Hemisphere sounds like the best of both. (And not too shabby for a clock shop that’s only been open since 2007!)

I’ve seen a lot of cool places in my time but few as interesting and wondrous as The Clock Shop in Dullstroom.

Excuse the irony but once inside, we actually lost track of time. So absorbed and enchanted were we by the incredible, seemingly endless array of clocks. From esteemed grandfather clocks to charming, handmade (though battery-operated, in some cases) cuckoo clocks.

Keeping Time with History and an Almost-Forgotten Art

The oldest clock here dates back to 1750 but there are countless other beauties (including from the 1950s and ’60s), many of which are for sale or being tenderly repaired and restored by the owners.

The owners and staff were kind enough to wind some of the cuckoos for us, so we could see the endearing cuckoo birds or figurines make their way in and out or around at the top of the hour.

We learned how traditional clockmaking is a sadly waning art. There are maybe only six mechanical clockmakers left in the world.

Although, we were encouraged to see and discover that there are still incredible companies and people out their handmaking clever battery-operated ones. To the untrained eye and ear, these are almost as beautiful looking and sounding as the mechanical ones.

We watched how the mechanisms worked and elated at every new, sweet chime.

In the small clock shop, with only a few rooms but with an amazing range of traditional clocks, Liverpool-themed clocks, frog clocks and so much more – time really stood still for us.

It really was the loveliest experience – and one you definitely should squeeze into your Dullstroom visit.

Location: The Clock Shop, Dullstroom Centre, Naledi Drive, Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, South Africa.

Trams Antiques

After our fascinating visit to The Clock Shop, we walked down the main road (to the opposite side of the street) and found more interesting shops, including Trams Antiques.

I adore anything antique or vintage and Trams was a true Aladdin’s Cave for both.

Trams is one of the best antique shops I’ve ever been in – with everything from delicate porcelain tea sets to military medals, furniture items, old dolls and so much more.

It’s a true treasure trove in every sense.

And they also sell apparently famous Oh! Fudge, which was sorely tempting. Maybe next time though… 🙂

If you’re keen to explore another amazing, little Dullstroom shop and step back in time, Trams Antiques is for you.

Location: Trams Antiques, 617 Naledi Drive, Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, South Africa.

Find the G(in) Spot in Dullstroom

After that, we walked around a bit more, browsing shops and taking in the peacefulness of Dullstroom before we spotted Dullstroom Gin and were lured inside.

If ever a gin emporium and shop was invitingly set out to ensure a fun, flavourful experience, then it’s the tiny but mighty Dullstroom Gin.

Dullstroom Gin offers gin tastings for over 150 South African gins. Including their own gin, like the award-winning Dullstroom Birch Gin and Dullstroom Cinna-Gin.

They also offer fun gin cocktails, platters, gift sets and G&Ts, while also hosting masterclasses (where you can enjoy a cocktail masterclass or create your own gin); and other private gin-themed events.

During our visit, we decided to ease into things with a gin cocktail each.

I opted for the Ginger Slinger (which came with a cute batch of caramel popcorn), while my parter tried the Coco Loco (accompanied by a plain popcorn snack).

Both our cocktails were amazing and probably the easiest drinking, loveliest gin I’ve had anywhere.

Dullstroom Gin for the Win

Aside from that, we loved the decor and creativity in the emporium.

The bar area is beautifully lit up and adorned with an array of gin bottles, making it a favourite for selfies and group photos.

They also have a wall showcasing the history of gin (it makes for a fascinating, at times, sobering, read); a cool, cheeky G-Spot (or Gin Spot section, which is where we sat); and a fun, adults-only sensory board, which allows you to sniff your way through all the gin effusions and flavours.

Our cocktails were well-priced and incredible and we had a great time visiting this quirky, fun emporium!

Please note: Dullstroom Gin has a strict child policy; no children under 12 are allowed in the emporium.

Update: Since our 2024 visit, Dullstroom Gin has moved location. Please see below for the new address:

Location: Dullstroom Gin, Shop 4, Ivy Lane Centre, Naledi Drive, Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, South Africa.

Relax in Cosy Dullstroom Accommodation

Dullstroom has a lot of lovely, largely affordable, accommodation for families, couples and solo travellers to enjoy. And, as mentioned previously in this post, some of the accommodation is also happily pet-friendly.

For our Dullstroom visit, we booked a one-night stay at Cinzaco Accommodation Dullstroom.

Cinzaco is centrally located, being close to nearby shops and restaurants, but still offers a beautiful, tranquil setting.

Scenic Self-Catering Accommodation

Cinzaco has a selection of self-catering accommodation in their 15-bedroom guesthouse; three-bedroom self-catering house; and two separate self-catering units. (Some of these accommodation options are pet-friendly too.)

For our stay, we booked into the six-bedroom Cinzaco Yoshino Guesthouse. It is ideal for groups of friends or family travelling together.

We were hardly in our accommodation but it provided all we needed. Including a comfortable bed and some essential electric blankets to keep us warm when the chill of Dullstroom hit. (Note: Dullstroom gets very cold; so pack warm!)

The management were lovely and friendly and this was definitely good value-for-money accommodation.

We encountered some minor issues during our stay. But overall, it was a good place to spend the night in Dullstroom, with safe, secure off-road parking, all necessary amenities and a scenic, spacious home for us to enjoy when we were there.

Location: Cinzaco Dullstroom, 186 De Waal Street, Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, South Africa.

Take an Afternoon Stroll around Town

I think one of the best things about Dullstroom is it’s safe, small town atmosphere. This cosy village has a prevailing sense of calm and safeness about it.

So, while you do still need to be mindful, especially at night, it’s generally pretty safe to stroll about in the late evening. Or even to walk home to your accommodation after a day’s feasting and drinking.

Most of the town’s accommodation and eateries are closely located. This makes walking about town both pleasant and quick.

We loved exploring Dullstroom on foot during our visit. Especially in the late afternoon as the sun’s last rays were kissing the autumn leaves good-bye for the night. Or even under a star-filled sky after a wonderful dinner in town.

Like I said, it’s generally safe, even at night – but please still be careful; know where you’re headed; and be aware of your surroundings, just to be safe.

Visit Dullstroom’s World-Renowned Whisky Bar

As a pre-dinner experience, we enjoyed a unique whisky and chocolate tasting at Wild About Whisky, a world-famous, award-winning whisky bar in Dullstroom.

It’s been open since 2006 and offers guests the most amazing range of tastings. Everything from tequilas to rums, brandies, whiskies, craft gins, liqueurs and more. They also have coffee and other beverages, as well as snacks, available to enjoy.

Admittedly, I’m not a huge whisky fan but, when we go out for drinks, it’s something my partner enjoys immensely. So I knew no visit to Dullstroom would be complete for us without stopping by this famous whisky bar!

Whisky and Chocolate as a Pre-Dinner Treat

Located at the beautiful, picturesque Auldstone House (which apparently doubles as accommodation and has the most gorgeous garden), Wild About Whisky is both a visual and sensory experience.

This is largely thanks to the amazing bottle-lined walls and dazzling bar area that overflows with the most amazing selection of world-renowned whiskies (among other drinks) – and the incredible tastings on offer here.

Our whisky and chocolate pairing included two chocolates and whiskies of our choice (per person).

These you personally select from their extensive online menu. Note: Each pairing consists of one chocolate and one 15ml serving (or half-tot) of whisky.

One thing I loved about this experience was the fully digital menu, which you scan using a QR code.

• I opted for the Strawberry Cheesecake White Truffle with Tamnavulin Double Cask (8/10 rating for me). And the Sticky Brownie Truffle with Highland Park 10-Year-Old.
• While my partner tried the Dark Chocolate Sponge with the Laphroaig Select. And the Cappuccino Truffle with Johnnie Walker Black Label.

Stop the Burn

In between tastings, we were also given palate cleansers to cleanse our palates.

If you’re familiar with wine and chocolate pairings, the same tasting process applies here (but I won’t spoil the fun). 🙂

The only difference is you need to hold the whisky in your mouth till it stops burning! (A trick I sadly didn’t really manage…)

We were even invited to sample each other’s pairings. So, in essence, you get to try four chocolates (which were divine) and four whiskies.

My partner loved his second whisky the most and he loved the experience overall. While I enjoyed the chocolate – I’m afraid I might not be a true whisky lover just yet!

Note: Pairing options may vary based on availability; so, when you visit, always check the menu. Also, they can get very busy on weekends, so, during your tasting experience, please be patient.

Location: Wild About Whisky, Auldstone House, 506 Hugenote Street, Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, South Africa.

Dine at a Bar-meets-Occasional Eatery

Vine Restaurant and Wine Bar is, hands down, one of the best restaurants I’ve ever dined at.

To say our dinner experience was faultless and amazing from start to finish is an understatement.

I am so glad I settled on this unique bar-meets-occasional eatery for our dinner in Dullstroom!

We arrived at around 18:00 pm and left well after 21:00 pm. Not because service was slow (quite the opposite).

But because we enjoyed savouring every moment in this romantic, cosily lit eatery, with its snug, stylish furnishings, lounge-to-table concept, never-ending list of South African wines (some 650, in fact!) and quality food.

Wowed by Vine Restaurant and Wine Bar

At Vine, it’s about lingering in the moment and making memories over great food and wine with those you love.

This is further evidenced through their enjoyable lounge-to-table dining concept. This concept sees you casually enjoy your starters and desserts in lounge chairs. However, your main is enjoyed at a traditional table, as normal.

Note: While children are welcome at Vine, the lounge-to-table dining may not be suitable for children under 8. Also, when dining at Vine, advance bookings are strongly recommended. 

Overall, especially at night, Vine is cosy, romantic and utterly beautiful. We sat upstairs in our own private nook. Despite the eatery being very busy, our spot felt entirely separate and private, like being in our own romantic bubble.

Much of the decor you see adorning their walls is also for sale. So, if you like something, check if it has a price attached to it. 🙂

Sampling Dullstroom’s Finest Fare

When we first arrived, we ordered drinks and starters. Unexpectedly, before our starters arrived, we were also blessed with a complimentary carrot-ginger soup, which was divine.

After that, I opted for Halloumi fries (the best I’ve had) with dipping sauce.

While my partner opted for the Escargot (snails), served in blue cheese sauce and wrapped in phyllo. (It was my first time trying snails and I have to say, this was the best place to do it!)

We chatted, played Cards Against Humanity (a sinfully fun way to work off your starters) and enjoyed quality time together without the threat of being rushed out of an eatery.

It’s the first time in a long time for us that the overall ambiance and restaurant pace felt just right.

And that’s before I even touch on the food and service. Which were both equally sublime and memorable in the best ways possible.

Divine Dining at Vine

Vine’s menus encompass only the freshest seasonal ingredients. And Vine serves up a high-end range of meal options, from pork belly to escargot and of course, trout. Note: Their menus change regularly.

When we were finally ready to order our mains, I opted for the fillet of trout, served with a lemon butter sauce, creamy wasabi mash and vegetables. Everything was impeccably cooked and tasted incredible.

My partner, meanwhile, decided on the pork belly, served with honey and sesame glaze and maze. Again, his was a perfect, hearty meal cooked to perfection.

Overall, I have to say our experience – from the restaurant atmosphere to the attentive, excellent service and filling, delicious food – deserves a firm 10/10.

After our memorable meal at Vine, we took a slow walk back to our accommodation, feeling calm and content.

Location: Vine Restaurant and Wine Bar, Beelaerts Street (behind Seattle), Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, South Africa. 

Embark on a Morning Horse Ride near Dullstroom Dam

The next morning, we awoke bright and early to set off for a fun, one-hour horse riding experience with Dullstroom on Horseback.

Perfect for inexperienced and experienced riders alike, it was the ideal way for us to see some of the Dullstroom countryside, while also enjoying a fun, safe outdoor activity.

With signs of frost and chill in the air and Cosmos flowers blooming along the quiet, country roads, we set off from our accommodation.

We took a slow, relaxed walk to Dullstroom on the Dam. Dullstroom on the Dam is a beautiful caravan park, which offers fly-fishing, self-catering cottages, camping and of course, horse riding.

Embarking on New, Gentler Adventures

For our horse riding experience, I wanted to ensure a safe, guided experience that was not too daunting. Especially as my partner had some negative horse encounters growing up. And I know the importance of building your confidence and bravery around horses in gentle measures.

So, Dullstroom on Horseback offered the perfect opportunity for my partner to get back into the saddle and experience gentle, sure-footed horses.

We booked a 07:30 am slot. This was the perfect way to ease into the day – and into the horse riding.

Dullstroom on Horseback is an excellent, scenic experience, with safe, sure horses.

My mount, Delgado, was a wonderful, knowing ride, while my partner’s big gentle giant – appropriately named Big Friendly Giant (BFG) – was possibly even lovelier.

A Bracing Morning Ride in the Dullstroom Countryside

Our ride took us from the horses’ enclosure, through the autumn trees, over a water canal (which our mounts carefully crossed with ease), partially around the vast dam, through a little forested section and back, through fields, to our original departure point.

The whole time, we felt safe and enjoyed every moment of our ride. The guides are lovely and knowledgeable, ensuring you stay safe at all times.

I was even brave enough to whip my phone out a few times. Although the guides do take photos for you; these make for great keepsakes.

Have Breakfast at a Cute Coffee Shop

For breakfast, we tried Baker Boys, a cute, aesthetic little coffee shop in town. It has both lovely indoor and outdoor patio seating. For our visit, as it was a beautiful, sunny Sunday, we opted to sit outside in the fresh air.

Baker Boys has a great, varied menu. Everything they use is sourced and made fresh.

I started my breakfast experience with a high quality, excellent dirty chai latte, while my partner had a butterscotch milkshake.

Following that, we both opted for a variation of their buttermilk flapjacks.

I went sweet, choosing the Nutella, maple syrup, mascarpone and berries option.

While my partner chose the savoury bacon, banana and maple syrup stack.

Overall, our breakfast was lovely (the flapjacks were a bit dry but nothing major) and it was beautifully presented and filling. A 7/10 for the food and 8/10 for drinks for me.

After our breakfast, it was time to explore the last sights Dullstroom had to offer before the trip back home.

Location: Baker Boys Coffee Cafe, SOHO Life Centre, Beelaerts Street, Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, South Africa.

Peruse Local Art Galleries, Quirky Shops and More

Dullstroom has so many other wonderful shops and places to explore. While we didn’t visit everywhere, here are a few other interesting spots we liked in town:

• • Mavungana Flyfishing Store, Dullstroom:

    This long-established fly-fishing store is your go-to for all things fly-fishing and fishing gear. They’re incredibly well-stocked and offer Dullstroom day fishing experiences. They even have an adorable mini coffee shop inside. (Apparently it’s the earliest coffee in the village.)

  • Dimitrov Art Gallery:

    This aesthetically pleasing gallery is an interesting place to check out. We enjoyed browsing all their beautiful, unique art. Their art is also stocked nearby in the Vine Restaurant and Wine Bar.

    Please note: Cellphone pictures and use is not permitted inside the gallery.

  • Vergeet My Nie Winkeltjie (Store):

    If you’re looking for an assortment of local gifts, handmade goodies and some beautiful pot plants, then definitely make a stop by Vergeet My Nie. It’s a cute, little shop to peruse.
    

  • Fox Hill Guest House and Trade Winds Decor Warehouse
    

    This lovely decor warehouse and gift shop overflows with an assortment of thrifted clothing, second-hand books, memorabilia and gifts. It feels like stepping into a magical emporium – especially when you find Teddy, the fluffiest ginger cat ever.

    

    A stone’s throw away, there’s also some lovely accommodation in the Fox Hill Guest House.

Sample Your Way through Sweets or Belgian Waffles

If you have a sweet tooth like me, Dullstroom offers endless treat possibilities. There’s pancake and waffle options galore, as well as a decadent sweetshop in town.

• Sugar – Sweet Treats and More:

  

  This delightful, whimsical sweetshop is sure to provide all the nostalgia of our childhood – and then some. For a small shop, they have the most incredible selection of sweet treats, slushies and popcorn on offer. The owner is lovely and welcoming too.

• Waffle and Co
  

  Waffle and Co is a popular Belgian waffle place in town. Aside from their famous waffles (which I’ve heard are great), this family restaurant also offers a gift shop, kiddies’ activities (like mesmerising, colourful sand art) and some beautiful outdoor spaces on-site. They can get very busy on weekends so keep that in mind if you visit!

Dullstroom in a Nutshell

Honestly, Dullstroom is such a beautiful, diverse village to explore. With its natural beauty, cosy coffee shops and eateries and unique activities, it really packs a punch and leaves visitors longing to return very soon.

If you are based around Middelburg, Johannesburg or Pretoria, Dullstroom makes for the perfect weekend day trip or getaway destination.

For travellers from further afield, like us, Dullstroom is equally rewarding and definitely a place to check off a South African bucket list! 🙂

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