Dullstroom, Mpumalanga

At 2097m above sea level, Dullstroom is one of the highest towns in South Africa. It has a sub-alpine climate, and is well known for its cool, often misty atmosphere. The town's stone lodges nestle along cool trout dams and streams, where bright yellow arum lilies and 120 other species of indigenous wild flower carpet the region in a kaleidoscope of color every spring. With its many pubs, restaurants, lodges and quaint village shops, this is one of the most appealing tourist destinations in Mpumalanga. 

Dullstroom is ultimately about relaxing, breathing fresh air, be it by fishing, hiking, dining out or snuggling up next to a cosy fireplace on a misty night. The town and vicinity offers a choice of accommodation, ranging from camping to well equipped, self-catering houses, up-market lodges and hotels.

Dullstroom dates back to the early 1880's, when Dutch settlers came to the area. The town derives its name from one Wolterus Dull, chairperson of the Dutch immigrants. The "stroom" (stream) refers to the abundance of water in the area: The Crocodile River, which runs through the Kruger National Park, has its origin in Dullstroom. Other major tributaries, like the Lunsklip, Klip River, Steelpoort and Elands River, do not only feed important rivers and marshlands, but have also become synonymous with some of the best trout fishing in the country.

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Dullstroom and surrounds is primarily a haven for family fun, fly-fishing and country fresh air. The wide selection of elegant hotels and a variety of country accommodation, eateries, shops and activities, have made this an appealing tourist destination and an ideal stopover on the way to the Lowveld and Kruger Park.

Dullstroom - a true paradise for the nature lover.

Dullstroom, Mpumalanga

Dullstroom dates back to the early 1880s when Dutch Settlers made their way to the place of "eternal mist". The town is situated at 2100 m above sea level, making this one of the highest towns in the country. The architecture of the village of Dullstroom is a mixture of 19th and 20th century building designs.

Dullstroom is on the panorama route, halfway from Johannesburg to the Kruger National Park. The ideal stop over! You will find the village of Dullstroom to be a charming little hamlet situated in the heart of the Highlands Meander, a beautiful part of Mpumalanga, noted for its clear streams, lakes and breath-taking scenery.

The Birds of Prey Centre and Rehabilitation Center is situated at the Owl & Oak Trading Post, just outside of Dullstroom. Daily flying displays at 10:30 and again at 14:30.

Anyone passing through the tranquil Steenkampsberg, might think that the ‘dull’ in Dullstroom describes the character of the town. Not so. This charming village was named after its Dutch founder, Wolterus Dull, and has become a haven for the nature lover, family man and fly fisherman.

The town claims to be the highest above sea level, in what was formerly called the Transvaal, hence the chill air. Dullstroom’s European heritage is evident in its wonderful array of deciduous trees – beeches, lindens, cherry trees and many other varieties planted here over a century ago. Nestled in pristine surroundings, Dullstroom caters for those who want to break away to fresh air and peace.

Many a city slicker has become a Dullstroom ‘weekender’ for exactly these reasons. Dullstroom offers a sub-Alpine climate unique in the area, beautiful natural surroundings devoid of industrial pollution, popular horse and hiking trails, unique plant and animal life, as well as the Verlorenvallei Nature Reserve, breeding place of the rare Wattled Crane. Accommodation varies from a caravan park at the municipal dam to up market hotels, a share block scheme and self-catering cottages rented out by private owners. Even the gourmet dinner has several options to choose from.

Dullstroom also offers some of the best facilities for trout angling in the country. The Dullstroom municipal dam has been restored to its former glory and the building of a sister dam. Suikerboschkop, has resulted in excellent fly fishing for both brown trout and rainbows. Day angling is possible at these and other dams in the surrounding area.

WHERE TO STAY

Valley of the Rainbow

Situated in a secluded valley in the mountains near Dullstroom, only two hours from Johannesburg. The Manor House offers five luxurious en suite rooms each with own private lounge. The Country House with five en suite rooms is decorated in a classical country style and offers breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains. The Tent Chalets each have it’s own bathroom and electricity. Sporting activities include trout fishing, clay pigeon shooting, mountain biking, hiking, birding, abseiling etc. Ideal for corporate Adventure and Leisure programmes.