Why You Should Visit Dullstroom, a Remote Town Outside of Johannesburg

Dullstroom is a beautiful, countryside escape and is only approximately 2.5 hours from Johannesburg. It’s also a great stopover for those traveling from Johannesburg to The Kruger National Park or back. Pack the car and say goodbye to the city lights, as this quaint town is the ultimate country escape.

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Wild about Whiskey offers a wide range of tasting options that shouldn’t be rushed. Take a seat and spend an hour or two sipping on top-class whiskeys while a guide shares invaluable knowledge. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or don’t know your Glenmorangie from Glenfiddich, Wild about Whiskey caters to everyone’s needs.

Wild about Whiskey, Hugenoten Street, Dullstroom, South Africa, +27 13 254 0066

Try to plan a visit when the weekend-long Dullstroom Winter Festival is in full swing. The annual event takes place around mid-winter during which the town fills with people, music, markets and more. The family-friendly event is host to a wide range of indoor and outdoor events of which many are free to attend. Book accommodation in advance as it fills up fast.

Anvil Ale Brewery, situated on the edge of town, is the top spot for tasting beer and stocking up on local brews. The brewery serves locally sourced food and homemade treats, like relishes and amazing desserts – don’t skip the boozy pudding. When it comes to the beer, patrons can enjoy everything from blonde or pale ales to their refreshing Biere d’Saison. We especially love the Black Anvil stout, which owner Theo recommends trying with half orange juice.

Believe it or not, the nightlife is pretty great. A drink (or two) at Duck & Trout has become an institution while there’s almost always a spot to catch some live music. The Old Transvaal Inn is a popular spot to start the evening and wood fuelled indoor fireplaces add to the ambience.

On Dullstroom’s main street stands a little shop that sells everything from cuckoo clocks to mantel pieces. Each inch of wall is covered in different timepieces and the shop boasts the largest collection in the Southern hemisphere – with over 5000 items! It’s definitely worth a browse, and you never know, you might pick up a quirky souvenir!

The Clock Shop, Dullstroom Centre Naledi Dr., Dullstroom, South Africa, +27 13 254 0022

From waffles and pancakes to the tastiest fresh trout that has ever graced a plate, Dullstroom has so much to offer when it comes to eateries. There are also loads of family-friendly restaurants to choose from, so there’s no need to leave the kids at home. Pickles & Things serve tasty local fare, and the menu includes an amazing breakfast spread and plenty of lunch and dinner options. The restaurant was one of the first in Dullstroom so quality is a given.

Pickles And Things, 86 Naledi Dr, Dullstroom, South Africa, +27 13 254 0115

The Bird of Prey & Rehabilitation Centre, situated one kilometre out of town, aims to rehabilitate birds of prey back into the wild and offer educational programmes to the public. There are two flight demonstrations a day, which allows visitors to get up close and personal with these amazing birds, including raptors, eagles and owls.

The Bird of Prey, R540 corner Kruisfontein Rd., Dullstroom, South Africa, +27 82 899 4108

Grab your wellington boots and spend a morning on one of the many beautiful lakes in the area. Fly fishing is done on a catch and release basis and you can either plan your whole trip around the activity or simply get a day pass.

Think artisanal chocolate boutiques, a top class coffee roasters, antiques, local artworks and clothing, Dullstroom has it all. Pop into Wild ‘n Woolly for hand-crafted knits while The Smokey Owl bookstore is your one-stop reading pleasure shop. Most shops are within walking distance from each other, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and a hat as chances are you’ll be spending most of your days in Dullstroom outside. Visit Dullstroom Accommodation for all your booking needs when visiting this beautiful town.