Whether your idea of a weekend getaway calls forth pictures of a blazing fireside with a glass of red in hand, lazy, late-morning breakfast feasts at a pretty poolside, brisk walks to scoop up the country air, or romantic dinners for two, Exclusive Getaways has some suggestions for your next weekend getaway to magical Mpumalanga.
Book a couple of nights at Oliver’s Restaurant & Lodge, and find yourself on a sprawling country estate in White River overlooking a golf course and surrounded by Mpumalanga’s beautiful forests. Sleep deeply, and depending on which room you choose, you may also have a cosy fireplace. There’s every chance that, in the words of your hosts, “nightjars, owls and the merry midnight frogs will lull you to a peaceful sleep“. The restaurant is a treat, and there’s also a wine cellar for romantic dining. The weary are welcome here, for there’s a wellness and beauty clinic in-house to soothe away all stresses and strains. At Oliver’s you’re 25 km away from the Kruger park, if you fancy a self-drive game viewing outing. Golf, conveniently, is right on the doorstep. Mail us to book.
Swap the city for some fresh country air and a wonderfully comfy stay at Rissington Inn. You’ll find this welcoming home-from-home just outside Hazyview, set on a vast country estate granting fabulous views. It’s the sort of place where the welcome is warm and genuine – in fact they pride themselves on offering “the warmest welcome in the Lowveld.” Sharing a sundowner in The Rissington Bar will probably be among your most memorable ‘welcome-moments’, preceding a great dinner. Mail us to book.
Misty meanderings beside a placid lake offset cosy indoor snuggle-ups at Critchley Hackle on the Highlands of Mpumalanga. Dullstroom is one of the region’s great weekend escapes, and it’s just 2.5 hours’ drive from Johannesburg. Critchley Hackle is an old favourite in this neck of the woods, known not just for its romantic feel but also for its fly fishing – you can get some equipment on loan at the hotel. Weekend visitors will also enjoy the spa, and the cosy bar & whiskey room. Mail us to book.
An undisputed winner on the Mpumalanga Highlands is Walkersons Hotel & Spa. It’s a grand old classic in the country hotel tradition, situated just outside Dullstroom, with acres of rolling countryside in all directions. Fly fishing, gym, spa treatments, walks, hikes and picnics are all among your rejuvenation options here. Mail us to book.
Akabeko Boutique Hotel & Spa is a romantic 5-star riverside retreat set on a farm on the serene highlands of Mpumalanga, between Dullstroom and Lydenburg. Secluded valleys, a flowing river, waterfalls and woodland glades create a marvelous escape in the countryside. Guest suites are large and private, with lots of contemporary comforts, including lounge and dining facilities, deck, fireplace, and mosaic sunken baths which are a treat. The hotel has a restaurant, spa and outdoor jacuzzi. Mail us to book.
Loerie’s Call Guest House is a super weekend hideaway in Nelspruit. The views are breathtaking, and the luxury 5-star. Enjoy plush guest house comforts, and great dining in-house at Orange Restaurant which also provides magical views to complement the food. There is also a spa to complete the experience. Mail us to book.
Mail us for more getaway suggestions and bookings, or call +27 21 797-7122.
