Escaping The Big Smog: The Lowveld
It’s been a while since I posted my last blog post, getting caught up in the Jozi grind will do that to you. However, after traveling to Dullstroom last weekend for a bit of down time I feel more inspired.
So many South African don’t take advantage of the beautiful destinations that are literally on our doorstep. About a month ago I went up to White River for the weekend (roughly a 3.5 hour drive from Johannesburg) and last weekend I went up to Dullstroom for the weekend (2.5 hours if you miss traffic). These are accessible, well-priced, beautiful places to visit if you feel like an escape from the city.
White River is actually where I grew up, so I like to think my knowledge of the Lowveld area is pretty inexhaustible. However, who is to say you can’t be a tourist in your hometown? We’re constantly going on adventures and trying new spots in the Lowveld.
During my last visit we spent our Saturday driving to a lodge called Misty Mountain, well suited to it’s name this quaint spot is perfectly situated at the top of Long Tom Pass on a 280 hectare South African Natural Heritage Site. The views are phenomenal, the food is hearty and local, if you’re interested in fishing or hiking or quad biking- this is the place to be. The self-catering cottages are perfect for a family getaway or a little romantic weekend.
On top of all of these perks, I haven’t even mentioned the best part about this hotel. Misty Mountain is home to the only rail Toboggan in South Africa. For adventure seekers this 1.7km long track is both breathtakingly beautiful and thrilling, reaching max speeds of 45km/hour.
If you’re in the area and are a beer fan try the Sabie Brewing Co for some local beers and a tour of the microbrewery. With six plus beers to sip on and views of the surrounding Sabie Mountains, you won’t find much to complain about in a setting like this.
If you spend the weekend in White River there are more than a few good foodie spots you can try.
Firstly, don’t leave without stopping at the Bagdad Centre and trying Picasso’s Mexican Taqueria. More authentic Mexican food you will struggle to find (anywhere in South Africa). From frozen fresh lime margaritas to pulled pork tacos, oozing quesadillas, potato dipper nachos and bloody mary's adorned with bacon- if you like Mexican food you will be delighted by Picasso’s. Even if you don’t like Mexican food, their wood fired pizzas and rib-eye steak will keep you thinking about this vibey family restaurant long after leaving.
Also in the Bagdad Centre is the delightful Zannas Café; supplier of local produce, divine eggs benedict, the best coffee in the area, and more recently fresh homemade bread. If you ever want to buy ginger bread cookies, anywhere, ever- Zannas is the place to do so. If you’re looking for a quick snack for the road, their baguettes are also top quality.
Casterbidge Lifestyle Centre is across the road from the Bagdad Centre, it’s littered with boutique shops, tranquil gardens, and quirky restaurants. Whether you are looking for a piece of jewellery, a new coffee table, local art, lingerie, or your next Mother’s Day gift this centre has it all, including a vet and a music academy! The Lowveld Book Festival will also be hosted at Casterbridge this year in August for all literary lovers. Festival goers can look forward to appearances by many critically acclaimed authors.
64 Coolmore is the cutest, French inspired restaurant in White River. Their menu changes every few months and supports the likes of wild boar, snails, wild mushroom risotto, grilled sole, and slow roasted lamb shank. For a truly incredible dining experience find out when their next Chefs Table is; five courses of delicious taste combinations will leave you feeling incredibly satisfied and eager to return.
There are loads of places I haven’t even mentioned yet that are great in the area, I’ll have to do a follow on post after I’ve published my Dullstroom post!