About the Town:
Dullstroom is a beautifully quaint town, often lovingly referred to by locals as “a drinking town with a fishing problem.” Situated in the heart of Mpumalanga along the famous Panorama Route, Dullstroom is anything but dull. With a vibrant selection of restaurants, pubs, country shops, and an award-winning brewery, it has something for every traveler.
What makes Dullstroom particularly unique is its unwavering commitment to preserving its country charm. Unlike many small towns in the country, Dullstroom has resisted commercialization. No large commercial franchises have set up shop here—except for Harrie’s Pancakes, which only operates in small towns. This initiative not only supports local businesses but also creates an atmosphere of nostalgia and authenticity.
Historically, Dullstroom was founded by Dutch settlers and named after Wolterus Dull, a Dutchman who immigrated to the area to establish a company. However, following the Second Boer War, many settlers, including Dull himself, returned to the Netherlands, leaving the town nearly abandoned. It was only in the early 1900s that Dullstroom gained traction again when a local postmaster introduced trout fishing to the area. Today, it has become the undisputed fly-fishing capital of South Africa, drawing enthusiasts from all over.
What to do in Dullstroom?
Dullstroom is an experience waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor adventurer, or someone looking for a relaxing retreat, this charming town has something for you.
For the Foodies:
The culinary scene in Dullstroom is as diverse as it is delicious. From indulgent Belgian waffles at Waffle and Co to the famous filled pancakes at Harrie’s Pancakes, there’s no shortage of decadent treats. If you’re looking for something more refined, The Coachman Restaurant and Dunkeld Country Estate offer rustic fine dining experiences. Alternatively, Mayfly and Café De La Stroom provide a more modern café-style atmosphere.
Given Dullstroom’s rich trout-fishing culture, many restaurants feature locally sourced trout in their dishes. However, the culinary creativity ensures that the flavors complement the setting rather than overpower it. Most establishments embrace a relaxed, country-style approach with no strict dress code—just good food and great company.
For the Unwinders:
A trip to Dullstroom wouldn’t be complete without exploring its impressive selection of craft beverages. Anvil Brewery has won numerous international awards, offering an exceptional range of beers. While their pricing is slightly higher than your average local pint, the quality and craftsmanship make it well worth it.
Whiskey lovers, on the other hand, can step into Wild About Whisky, a bar with the largest whiskey collection in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, their tastings offer a guided experience. Enjoy a journey through some of the world’s finest whiskey selections. Additionally, for gin lovers, the Botanical Café specializes in local and craft gins, offering unique pairings and tastings at reasonable rates.
If relaxation is your goal, Dullstroom is home to several boutique spas, with Dunkeld Spa and Walkersons Spa offering luxurious treatments, from deep-tissue massages to revitalizing facials, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
For the Outdoorsy:
For outdoor enthusiasts, Dullstroom is a paradise. There are countless hiking trails and mountain biking routes, many of which weave through privately owned farmlands that can be accessed through hotel receptions.
For adrenaline junkies, Breathe Adventures offers exhilarating activities like zip-lining, abseiling, and rock climbing, catering to individuals, groups, and corporate teams. They also provide guided 4×4 trails and quad biking routes for those looking to explore the rugged terrain.
Of course, for those who love fishing, Dullstroom’s trout farms offer some of the best angling experiences in the country. You don’t even need to bring your own gear—most places provide rentals at very reasonable rates.
A particularly unique experience is the Dullstroom Birds of Prey & Rehabilitation Centre, located about 10km outside of town. Here, visitors get a rare opportunity to learn about and interact with South Africa’s majestic birds of prey, including owls, falcons, and eagles. The center also hosts educational flight demonstrations, allowing guests to witness these incredible raptors in action.
For something a little different, Dunkeld Equestrian Centre offers scenic horseback riding trails through rolling countryside. No matter your adventure level, Dullstroom has something to keep every outdoor lover entertained.
When to visit?
Dullstroom is stunning all year round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for.
- For Fly-Fishing Enthusiasts: The prime months for fishing are July to September when the waters are at their coldest. This also happens to be the chilliest time of the year, with sub-zero temperatures not uncommon.
- For Festival Lovers: The annual “Christmas in July” festival transforms the town into a winter wonderland, complete with European-style Christmas feasts and, occasionally, a dusting of snow.
- For Summer Escapes: From October to January, the temperatures rise to a pleasant 25–34°C (75°F – 94°F), making it an excellent time to enjoy outdoor activities, leisurely meals, and sunset drinks, but don’t forget to pack the sunscreen.
Where to stay?
For Travelling Families:
We highly recommend Dunkeld Country Estate for travellers with young children to early teens. Dunkeld Country Estate is an exquisite trout-and-game resort situated on over 1000 hectares only 5mins away from the main town. This is primarily a self-catering resort, with a fine dining restaurant available. Nearly all of the rooms have an open fireplace to keep warm on those cold, and most popular, misty days. The resort boasts many well-stocked dams filled with Brown, Rainbow and Golden Trout. Offering fly-fishing enthusiasts the enjoyment of quality angling time in pursuit of that perfect catch. There are also ample things for young children to do, from large open play areas; fly fishing lessons and horse rides every weekend.
The Estate is located on the famous Panorama Route, which takes visitors from Dullstroom all the way through remarkable landscapes of The Blyde River Canyon and is the perfect rest stop on the way to the Kruger National Park; Timbavati and Sabi Sands Reserves.
For Couples:
The perfect spot would have to be The Highlander which derives its name from the Scottish Highlands, as the surrounding area resembles. The hotel was previously known as the Peebles Country Lodge and was voted the ‘Most Romantic Hotel‘ during the International Luxury Hotel of the year awards. The retreat has become popular as a stop-over accommodation option for visitors traveling to and from the Kruger National Park. This welcoming country hotel caters to both the corporate and leisure guest with an absolute focus on the romantic setting of the hotel. The rooms feature wood fireplaces and a full range of amenities. The bar at the hotel is every whiskey lover’s dream, offering over 200 single malt whiskeys to choose from.
The hotel is closely located to all the main shopping areas and guests can easily walk from the hotel to the shops and spend a day browsing. The hotel features a bar, a restaurant and a spa to indulge all your senses.
For Luxury Travellers:
We can think of no better place than Walkersons Hotel & Spa which is situated 20min outside of Dullstroom. Walkersons offers modern accommodation with a lot of country flair and boasts a spa center on site and a well-equipped gym. All of their luxurious suites have open fireplaces for those cozy romantic evenings and thatch roofs for that “bushveld” aroma. Additionally, they all have a lounge area which includes a flat-screen satellite TV and all of the rooms lead on to an outdoor patio area offering majestic views of the lake. They also have an above average restaurant on site that serves a variety of courses and sorbets in the fireside intimacy of their dining hall. Guests are invited to select a bottle of wine, whilst enjoying dishes like roast duck with a black cherry sauce and rainbow trout.
There are plenty activities available on property ranging from fly fishing in the lake, hiking trails and mountain biking. Picnic baskets served in the open-air spaces of the hotel, facing winding rivers and a waterfall are also offered.
Travelling on a budget?
We absolutely recommend Auldstone House which is located in central Dullstroom, with the Dullstroom Information Centre just few steps away. Free private parking is available on site. Each of the Auldstone House Suites are individually decorated are located on the second floor with an en-suite bathroom, equipped with either a bath or a shower. The amenities are slightly limited but each suite comes equipped with a heater and electric blankets for those colder winter nights. Some of the units also offer self-catering facilities, a satellite TV and an open fireplace. The guesthouse is located at the same centre as the Wild about Whiskey bar and is close to all the retail shops.
Final Thoughts on Dullstroom
Dullstroom is more than just a stopover—it’s a destination that blends outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and a rich cultural experience. Whether you’re here for the fly fishing, the scenic trails, or just to unwind with a good meal by a crackling fireplace, this little town has something special to offer.
⭐️⭐️ A very good stop – With its unique character, excellent outdoor activities, and cozy atmosphere, Dullstroom is well worth adding to your travel itinerary. While it may not demand an entire trip on its own, it’s a place you’ll want to linger in longer than expected.