We’re quickly approaching the end of 2022 and the summer holidays. For those who can’t wait any longer for the festive season and the much-needed time off, why don’t you pack your bags and go on a weekend away to Mpumalanga? Mpumalanga is “the place where the sun rises”, and while it may be among South Africa’s smallest provinces, what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in spectacular natural diversity. So, go on, spoil yourself with a mini-break and toast to relaxation. Here are the best spots to relax in this beautiful province.
Summerfields Rose Retreat & Spa
If you’ve ever wanted to experience farm life in the lap of luxury, then check out the lovely Summerfields Rose Retreat & Spa. An excellent choice for a romantic getaway, the retreat offers accommodation in rustic-glam tents that are beautifully designed and come with handmade furnishings, ultra-comfortable beds, and the option to shower in private outside. Onsite amenities include two farm-to-table restaurants, one of which sits adjacent to the river. There is also a spa by the river and a swimming pool. If you would like to tour the farm, which cultivates fruits, nuts, and flowers, that can also be arranged.
Misty Mountain, Panorama Route
The drive alone along the Panorama Route to this incredible mountain getaway is quite something. You won’t be asking “are we there yet?” as you’d be too mesmerised, glaring out the window in awe of the picturesque scenery you’ll find on every bend. Misty Mountain is the ideal place for family holidays, romantic escapes or team building with colleagues. If it’s not the infinity pool overlooking the forestry below then it’s the unique and quaint cottages with incredible views that will have you relaxed and rejuvenated.
Crystal Springs Mountain Lodge
Crystal Springs Mountain Lodge is exactly that, it’s an incredible establishment that’s surrounded by mountainous terrain, which gives you that escapism from a busy city life. It is a Four-Star self-catering Resort situated at the top of Robber’s Pass, on the historic old road to Pilgrim’s Rest; beautiful gardens combine with exquisite natural scenery to create a haven incorporating spectacular cliffs and gorges, forests and sweeping views. Birdlife is plentiful and wild animals such as zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, antelope and leopard inhabit the Nature Reserve.
Graskop Gorge Lift
The Graskop Gorge Lift is a cool viewing lift that travels 51m down a gorge and into a thick Afromontane forest. Once at the bottom, you can walk along various wooden walkways, gawk at the Motitsi Waterfall and learn more about the diverse plant life that makes this part of Mpumalanga so famous. If the gorge lift isn’t enough action for you, you can also zip across the gorge on a 120m long zipline, freefall 70m into the depths on the Big Swing. Afterward, enjoy a cuppa at the Lift Café or shop for souvenirs at the onsite craft market. Here you can pick up everything from colorful bags to beaded jewelry to handcrafted wooden bowls.
Swim in the Mac Mac Pools
Another cool thing to do in Mpumalanga is to pop by the Mac Mac Pools – a set of natural rock pools between Sabie and Graskop. Here you can swim in fresh mountain streams, have a braai, or just relax under the trees. Just a heads up, Mac Mac Pools is a very popular tourist spot in Mpumalanga, especially in summer. Don’t come too late because the picnic area fills up quickly. Oh, and remember your swimsuit!
You can’t go wrong with a holiday in Mpumalanga when it’s breath-taking scenery and relaxation you’re after. Here, in the ‘Place where the Sun Rises’ in South Africa, you’ll be treated to diverse views of rolling grasslands, towering mountain peaks and plummeting escarpments, as well as the lush greenery of the Lowveld. If you wish to view some amazing career opportunities in South Africa, make sure you click through to our job section.
