Destination Dullstroom: More than a Quick Stop between Gauteng and Kruger

Hey there! So, you’re planning a trip from Gauteng to Kruger and heard about this place called Dullstroom. Well, let me tell you, it’s not just some random overnight stop. Dullstroom is a destination in its own right, with so much to offer.

First of all, let’s talk about the town itself. Dullstroom is a charming little place nestled in the rolling hills of Mpumalanga. It’s got that cozy, small-town vibe that instantly makes you feel at home. And the scenery? Absolutely breathtaking! Think lush green landscapes, crystal clear lakes, and picturesque mountains. It’s nature at its finest.

But Dullstroom isn’t just about pretty views. This place is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, fishing, birdwatching – you name it, they’ve got it. Nature lovers will be in heaven here, with an abundance of trails to explore and wildlife to spot. If you’re a fan of fly fishing, you’re in luck. Dullstroom is renowned for its excellent trout fishing. Grab your gear and prepare to reel in some big ones!

Now, let’s talk about food. Dullstroom may be small, but it’s a foodie’s paradise. The town is known for its fantastic restaurants and cafes, serving up delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. From hearty farm-style breakfasts to gourmet dinners, you’ll find a culinary experience to satisfy any craving.

And if you’re a fan of shopping, Dullstroom won’t disappoint. The town is famous for its boutique shops and craft markets. You’ll find unique, handcrafted treasures that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re into fashion, art, or home decor, Dullstroom has something special just for you.

So, next time you’re planning a trip from Gauteng to Kruger, don’t just pass through Dullstroom. Take the time to explore this hidden gem. Trust me, you won’t regret it. There’s a reason why Dullstroom has become more than just a quick stop – it’s a destination that’s worth every second of your time.

When I was a kid, I used to think of Dullstroom as a kind of pit stop on our way to the Lowveld for our family vacations. The road trip from Joburg felt like it would never end, but once we reached Dullstroom, I knew we were getting closer to our final destination.

Sometimes, we would spend the night at a cozy B&B, or if we arrived early enough, we’d stop for a delicious lunch. I remember pressing my nose against the glass of the sweet displays, promising not to make a mess in the car. After that, we’d hit the road again, excited to explore Kruger National Park.

Things changed when my family moved to Hoedspruit. Dullstroom became the meeting point for us and my grandparents who lived in Benoni. I treasured those visits because Dullstroom had so much to offer. My grandparents knew just how to spoil me, taking me to sweet shops and restaurants. It turned out that Dullstroom wasn’t just a pit stop; it was a destination in its own right.

Walking onto the sprawling grounds of Walkersons Estate is like stepping into a tranquil oasis. With 800 hectares to explore, there are endless routes for walking, cycling, and horse riding. It’s a nature lover’s dream.

When it was time to decide on a location for our family Christmas in 2018, Dullstroom once again emerged as the perfect choice. It’s conveniently situated between Joburg and Hoedspruit, making it accessible for everyone. We decided to book a stay at Walkersons Hotel & Spa, located just 10km outside of town. And let me tell you, it was everything we could have hoped for.

Our accommodation at Walkersons was a lovely surprise. It felt like we had our own little cottage, even though it was a spacious four-bedroom double story house. The interior was beautifully furnished, with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The cottage pane windows added a touch of charm, and the neatly manicured rose bushes scattered throughout the estate added a delightful touch of color.

When I recently visited Walkersons, I couldn’t help but think about the impact of the pandemic on South African tourism. The travel restrictions imposed due to Covid-19 had dealt a heavy blow to the industry. However, as I sat back on a lawn chair, enjoying a refreshing half and half (a mix of whiskey and beer), a thought occurred to me. Who needs to journey all the way to the hills of Scotland when you can experience the wonders of Dullstroom?

At Walkersons, we have 27 hotel suites and five cottages that are fully furnished for self-catering. Take a look at the beautiful lakeside hotel suites in the photo above, captured by Lauren Dold.

When you stay with us, you’ll find a cozy fireplace in every room, perfect for curling up with a good book. Our staff is attentive and always ready to pour your favorite drink, no matter the time of day.

If you’re looking for a truly peaceful and serene experience, our spa is just a short walk from the main hotel. Our team of qualified therapists offers a wide range of luxurious treatments, including manicures, pedicures, facials, and various massages. I personally recommend our classic Swedish massage, as it’s one of the best massages you’ll ever experience.

When I visited Dullstroom, I knew I had to try my hand at fly-fishing. Even though my group consisted of five people who had never fished before, we had the amazing Samuel as our guide. He was incredibly patient with us and always ready to help untangle our lines. The dams in Dullstroom are filled with rainbow trout, and we could see them jumping all around us, although they were quite elusive when it came to actually biting.

The best time for fly-fishing in Dullstroom is from July to September, although there is no set season. If you’re interested, Walkersons has fishing equipment available for hire, and the staff can provide expert advice. Just stop by the reception and ask.

Dullstroom holds the title of being the fly fishing capital of South Africa. With 14 well-stocked dams scattered across Walkersons estate, anglers flock here to refine their fly fishing skills. As for me, someone who has no interest in fishing, I found much more joy in exploring the estate and searching for its wildlife. On Walkersons, you can find blesbok, duiker, and a delightful herd of zebra casually grazing on the lush lawns. It’s a good idea to bring a comfy pair of walking shoes because Walkersons boasts a 3km network of paved paths that lead you across small idyllic waterfalls, alongside peaceful streams, and up the rolling hills of the estate.

When you visit Walkersons, you’ll have the chance to see zebras and other game roaming freely. It’s a lovely sight, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Once you’ve had a long day of fishing and exploring, you’ll definitely want to head to the hotel restaurant called the Flying Scotsman. As you step into the warm dining room, you’ll be greeted by the comforting glow of lit fires and the elegance of white linen. And let me tell you, the chef here knows how to impress! Every evening, they’ll treat you to a delicious four-course dinner that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.

Now, if you’re looking for something a bit lighter during the day, The Terrace is the place to be. This charming spot offers an extensive menu that you can enjoy for lunch or dinner. And the best part? You can dine outside and soak up the gorgeous views at the same time. Picture this: sitting on The Terrace, savoring a scrumptious meal, and gazing out at the estate lawns. It’s perfection. Oh, and if you have a weakness for afternoon tea (like I do), trust me, you won’t be able to resist their scones. They’re simply irresistible!

Now, let’s talk about indulgence. Imagine having a picnic on the banks of one of Walkersons’ dams. Just picture it – you, a picnic blanket, and a beautiful view. It doesn’t get much better than that. And guess what? Walkersons staff can make this dream a reality. They’ll put together a pre-packed gourmet picnic for you, complete with all the delectable treats you could ever want. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, you can even request a bottle of champagne. So go ahead, find a shady spot under a tree, and treat yourself to a truly memorable dining experience.

When you visit Walkersons, you can rest assured that your dietary requirements will be taken care of. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that everyone’s needs are met, and we are more than happy to prepare a picnic tailored to your liking.

Looking for a delightful dining experience? Look no further! Our famous Flying Scotsman four-course dinner is available from 7pm. We welcome children aged 12 and over to join us for this special occasion. To make a reservation, simply give us a call at 013 253 7000.

Curious about our rates? Here’s a breakdown:

For those interested in staying at our hotel, we have rooms starting at R2 950 per person when sharing. If you prefer the cozy atmosphere of a self-catering cottage, our cottages are available starting at R2 750 per night and can comfortably accommodate a group of four.

Hey there! Did you know that the property is currently offering some awesome deals? It’s true! You can take advantage of these amazing specials and save big on your next stay. Whether you’re planning a vacation or a business trip, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss!

Get 35% off on a luxurious hotel suite for a 2-night weekend stay.

Hey there! Are you looking for a fantastic weekend getaway? Well, I’ve got some great news for you. You can now book a lavish hotel suite for a 2-night weekend stay and enjoy a fantastic 35% discount! That’s right, 35% off!

Here are the deets:

• Valid on Friday and Saturday, so you can make the most of your weekend.
• This offer is available until 31st May 2022, giving you plenty of time to plan your trip.
• Remember, this discount is only applicable to hotel suites, so you can indulge in the ultimate luxury.
• But hurry, this offer is subject to availability, so book your suite ASAP!

Enjoy a 50% discount on a midweek stay in a hotel suite.

Hey, are you in desperate need of a weekday escape? We’ve got you covered! You can now get a fantastic 50% discount on a hotel suite for a midweek stay.

Here are the deets:

• You can take advantage of this offer from Sunday to Thursday, making weekdays as amazing as weekends.
• This offer is valid until 31st May 2022, so you have plenty of time to plan your midweek getaway.
• Don’t forget, this discount is only applicable to hotel suites, so you can fully enjoy the luxury and comfort during your stay.

Ready to book your dream escape? Just head over to Walkersons for more information or give them a call at +27 (13) 253 700. They’ll be more than happy to assist you!

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