We recently had the pleasure of visiting Cullinan, a charming town just a short drive from Pretoria, rich in history and character. Walking through its streets, you can’t help but notice how well-preserved its heritage is—new buildings seamlessly blend with the old, maintaining the town’s distinct Edwardian charm. While Cullinan is larger than some of the other small-town gems we’ve explored, its heart truly lies in Oak Avenue, the historic strip where time seems to stand still.
This town is world-famous for the Cullinan Diamond, the largest clear diamond ever discovered, which astonishingly lay just 5.5 meters beneath the surface—a stark contrast to the mine’s current depth of nearly 900 meters. Today, Cullinan remains the world’s largest producer of blue diamonds, contributing 15–20% of the globe’s gem-quality stones. Jewelry is woven into the town’s identity, with many local boutiques still showcasing exquisite pieces inspired by Cullinan’s glittering legacy.
But there’s more to Cullinan than just diamonds. From its fascinating history to its breathtaking scenery, quirky shops, and culinary delights, this little town has something special for every traveler. Let’s dive into what makes Cullinan a must-visit destination!
About the Town:
This story cannot start without a little bit of history, Every time we visit we learn something new, but lets stick to the facts for now. Cullinan boasts a captivating history that revolves around its diamond mining heritage. The story of Cullinan begins on January 26, 1905, when a momentous discovery was made at the Premier Mine, situated in the area known as the Magaliesberg Range in modern-day Gauteng Province, South Africa. The renowned Cullinan Diamond, named after the mine’s founder Sir Thomas Cullinan, was unearthed by Frederick Wells, the mine’s superintendent. There is however great speculation that it may have been discovered by a black worker for the mine. As at the time there was a huge reward paid out to the discovered, and superintendents didn’t exactly do much of the digging. The truth of this will regrettably be lost to history. On a more interresting note no one is still exactly sure if the town is named after the Diamond, or the Man.
The Cullinan Diamond was an extraordinary find, weighing an astonishing 3,106 carats (around 1.37 pounds or 621.35 grams). This massive gem-quality diamond was the largest ever discovered, capturing the attention of the entire world, and still influences the most luxurious items even to this day. Take Bentley for example, with their flagship vehicle named after the diamond, or the Cullinan Hotel in Capetown to name but a few. Although it doesn’t hurt that the diamond now belongs to the British Royal family. Today, Cullinan’s rich diamond mining history continues to be an essential part of the town’s identity. The Premier Mine, today known as the Cullinan Diamond Mine, remains in operation, and visitors can explore the mine and learn about the diamond extraction process. Guided tours provide insight into the town’s fascinating heritage and the world-famous Cullinan Diamond.
In addition to its diamond legacy, Cullinan has evolved into a charming tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical buildings, antique shops, natural beauty, and warm South African hospitality.
Top Attractions in Cullinan:
Cullinan may be a small town, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to things to see and do. From historic charm and diamond heritage to outdoor adventures and safari experiences, this town offers something for every traveler.
The Cullinan Diamond Mine: A Glimpse into a Glittering Past
A visit to Cullinan wouldn’t be complete without exploring the very thing that put this town on the map—the Cullinan Diamond Mine. The mine has been operational since 1902 and remains one of the few diamond mines in the world where you can tour an active operation.
Visitors have two main tour options:
- Surface Tour (R100 – R150 per person | 1-2 hours) – A guided museum-style tour covering the history of the mine, the discovery of the famous Cullinan Diamond, and the diamond-cutting process. The tour used to end at Cullinan’s exclusive jewelry store, which offers the signature Cullinan Star Cut, but this wasn’t the case during our visit.
- Underground Tour (± R500 per person | 4 hours) – This experience takes you deep into the mine’s tunnels and shafts, where you’ll witness firsthand how diamonds are extracted. Fair warning: wear old clothes—you’ll get dirty.
A strict zero-alcohol policy is enforced, with every participant undergoing a breathalyzer test before entry. If you’re planning a cold beer with your adventure, **make sure it’s after the tour—**they don’t make exceptions.
Cullinan Village & Oak Avenue: Stepping Back in Time
The heart and soul of Cullinan lies in its picturesque village and Oak Avenue, where century-old buildings, boutique shops, and inviting restaurants create an old-world charm unlike anywhere else.
The Magic of Oak Avenue
Lined with towering oak trees, this one-kilometer stretch is the most photographed street in Cullinan, and for good reason. The trees, planted in the early 1900s, provide a shaded canopy of green, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll. Oak Avenue is also a hub for community events and festivals, so if you visit during a special occasion, expect a bustling market with live music, food stalls, and local crafts.
A Glimpse into Wartime History
A short distance from Cullinan stands the Zonderwater Italian POW Church, a testament to resilience and faith. Built by Italian prisoners during World War II, this church showcases remarkable craftsmanship and stands as a poignant reminder of the past.
Zonderwater Italian POW Church: Marvel at the incredible work of Italian prisoners of war who constructed this stunning church during World War II.
More Outdoor Explor Activities in Cullinan
For those seeking an active escape, Cullinan offers a variety of outdoor and adventure experiences:
- Horseback Riding – Explore the surrounding countryside on scenic trails.
- Hiking Trails – Tackle rugged landscapes with routes suited to different fitness levels.
- Zip-Lining – Experience an adrenaline rush as you glide above the treetops.
- Mountain Biking – Ride through challenging terrain with rewarding views.
- Quad Biking – Navigate off-road tracks through the bushveld.
- Embracing Nature & Wildlife: Dinokeng Game Reserve -Dinokeng is an excellent alternative for those who may not have the time for a full Kruger Park trip but still want to experience the thrill of an African safari.
Whether you’re after high-energy thrills or a more leisurely outdoor experience, Cullinan has something to offer.
What else to do in Cullinan?
Culinary Delights and Local Brews
After a day of exploration, indulge in Cullinan’s culinary scene. The town offers a range of eateries serving everything from traditional South African dishes to international cuisine. Pair your meal with a locally brewed craft beer or a glass of regional wine to complete the experience.
Despite its small size, Cullinan boasts a delightful culinary scene. Savor delectable meals in charming restaurants and cafes, offering a mix of local and international cuisine. Whether you crave traditional South African dishes or international flavors, the town’s eateries will leave you satisfied. our favourites are definitely, Oppistasie Restaurant apart from the fact that this is located on the old railway station it also offers some incredible and unique dishes, with some even served on Spades to appeal to the “Digging for Gold” theme, Additionally you could try Harrie’s Pancakes which still serves some of the best Savoury and Sweet Pancakes(Crapes) in town. But if Beer is more your fancy theres no better place than the cockpit brewery, which brews some of the best beer in the country.
Plan Your Visit:
Cullinan is a year-round destination, but visiting during the spring months (September to November) offers the added spectacle of jacaranda trees in full bloom, painting the town in vibrant shades of purple. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure enthusiast, Cullinan promises a memorable escape.
Note: Always check the latest travel advisories and opening hours of attractions before planning your visit.