Dullstroom

Dullstroom, officially known as Emnotweni, is perched at a bracing 2,100 metres above sea level, making it one of South Africa’s highest and coolest towns. Located in the Steenkampsberg highlands, it is the country's undisputed capital for trout fly-fishing. Visitors are drawn to its mist-shrouded landscapes and stone architecture, which feel more like the Scottish Highlands than sub-tropical Africa. It is also a critical habitat for birdlife, being the only place to host all three of South Africa’s crane species. The town’s culinary scene is a major drawcard; fresh trout is a staple on every menu, and 'Wild About Whisky' has one of the largest whisky collections in the Southern Hemisphere. Dullstroom is packed with boutique shops, art galleries, and artisanal bakeries that encourage slow exploration. Evenings are typically spent in cosy pubs beside crackling log fires. Access is a straightforward three-hour drive from Johannesburg or Pretoria via the N4 highway, making it a popular weekend getaway or stopover en route to Kruger Park. Due to its elevation, temperatures can drop significantly; winter snow is not uncommon. The best time for fishing is during the cooler months of autumn and spring when the trout are most active. Beyond the dams, Dullstroom features excellent hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails. The Dullstroom Bird of Prey & Rehabilitation Centre provides an educational and thrilling experience for families. For those seeking a sophisticated yet rustic mountain retreat, Dullstroom gives an unmatched highland charm.

Nearby cities

eMalahleni

Formerly called Witbank, this is the heart of the coal mining region and supplies numerous power stations.

Middelburg

A strong industrial and agricultural center, famous for the production of stainless steel and coal.

Mbombela

Previously known as Nelspruit, this city serves as a gateway to the Kruger National Park.

Standerton

A large agricultural town on the Vaal River, specializing in dairy, maize, and poultry farming.

Ermelo

The gateway to the Mpumalanga grasslands is a center for anthracite coal mining and wool production.

Secunda

The second purpose-built industrial town by Sasol, producing petrol and other fuels from coal.

Nature

Blyde River Canyon

One of the largest 'green' canyons in the world.

More places

Pilgrim's Rest

Pilgrim's Rest is a historic small town formed after the discovery of gold in 1873, looking almost unchanged today.

Lowveld

The lower-lying regions east of the Highveld.

Crocodile Bridge Gate

Well-known entrance to Kruger Park, often good game viewing opportunities.

Kusile Power Station

A massive coal-fired power station currently under construction, designed to be one of the largest in the world.

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Kendal Power Station

One of Eskom's base-load coal-fired power stations and the largest indirect dry-cooled power station globally.

Sasol Secunda Plant

A massive synthetic fuel plant producing liquid fuels and chemicals from coal.

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Modikwa Platinum Mine

An independently managed platinum mine on the eastern limb of the Bushveld Complex.