DESTINATIONS IN MPUMALANGA

Dullstroom is only 2 hours from Gauteng, en route to the Kruger National Park. Picture a log fire, a misty morning, a trout stream. This is Dullstroom.

Whether you refer to this neck of the woods as Trouteng or as the fly-fishing suburb of Jo'burg, makes no difference. This quaint village, known for its high altitude fresh air, has become the place to be. Be it for a quick break away to country fresh air, for a fine dining experience or for family fun, Dullstroom has a lot to offer.

The village, situated at 2100m above sea level in the Steenkampsberg range, dates back to the early 1880's, when Dutch settlers came to the area. The town derives its name from one Wolterus Dull, chairman of the Dutch immigrants. The "stroom" (stream) refers to the abundance of water in the area: The Crocodile River, which runs through the Kruger National Park, has its origin in Dullstroom. Other major tributaries, like the Lunsklip, Klip River, Steelpoort and Elands River, do not only feed important rivers and marshlands, but have also become synonymous with some of the best trout fishing in the country.

The area is known for its cool, sub-alpine climate and its misty atmosphere, reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands. It is also known as habitat for the three endangered cranes, a vast variety of wild flowers and rare species of mammals - a true paradise for the nature lover.

Where to stay

Dullstroom and surrounds is primarily a haven for family fun, fly-fishing and country fresh air. The wide selection of elegant hotels and a variety of country accommodation, eateries, shops and activities, have made this an appealing tourist destination and an ideal stop-over on the way to the Lowveld and Kruger Park.

Best time to visit

Dullstroom lies on the eastern escarpment of the Mpumalanga Province in South Africa and is one of the highest towns in the province. At the altitude of 2100m above MSL, one can expect a cool climate and fast changes in the daily weather conditions.

During the winter months, the average minimum temperatures vary between 9.2°C in September and 2.4°C in July. Frost is common and snow can also occur from time to time. The coldest night in recent times occured in June, with a minimum of -7°C. The average winter highs vary between 19.7°C in September and 14°C in July. Because Dullstroom lies in the summer rainfall area of South Africa, very little rain occurs in winter, although it is not impossible to have a shower of two during these months.

In summer the average minimum temperature varies between 8,9°C in April and 12,6°C in January. The average summer maximums vary between 21°C in February and 17,8°C in April.

Rainfall in summer is common and the highest total for a month was measured in January 1998 when a total of 212,mm was measured for the month.

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