Accommodation

Walkersons Hotel & Spa: The very definition of elegance in Dullstroom

At Walkersons Hotel & Spa in the rolling hills of the Mpumalanga Highlands on an expansive 800-hectare private estate just beyond the picturesque hamlet of Dullstroom – considered one of the highest towns in South Africa – you’ll find a place of mist and magic with endless vistas and a soul-soothing serenity.

Built in 1993, the Walkersons hotel was designed in a style to evoke an olde-world country atmosphere reminiscent of a Scottish Country Manor. Today, Walkersons Hotel & Spa is an exclusive 5-star country house – a flawless blend of elegance and charm with spacious rooms, luxury lakeside suites, a perfect-for-families Manor suite, a Honeymoon suite, two self-catering family cottages, elegant dining rooms, terraces, a cosy bar and expansive lawns leading to a hidden swimming pool – the ideal country getaway.

Dining at Walkersons Hotel & Spa

One of Walkersons biggest attractions is its gourmet country fare. At The Flying Scotsman with high thatched ceilings, floor-to-ceiling curtains, eye-catching artwork adorning the exposed brick wall, Persian carpets, tables set with crisp white linen and a cosy fire creating an opulent ambience, dining and wining is an elegant affair. The Terrace on the other hand, with views over landscaped gardens and rolling hills, is more laidback. An easy, relaxed restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with an a la carte menu that offers an array of tantalising dishes,The Misty Trout is a great choice for families with children as a delicious kids menu is available. Just a note that kids can be accommodated in the self-catering cottages and the one family room only at the hotel.

And for relaxed afternoon ‘drinkypoos’, a sundowner or two and pre/post-dinner drinks, there’s Peggy’s Bar.

Walkersons has a wealth of outdoor delights – whether you want to relax and unwind or to roam and explore, there is – believe me, something for everyone.

On a recent visit to Walkersons, walking was at the top of my to-do list. It’s the best way to explore the estate. Meander (or stride out like I did) along the footpaths – paved pathways that take you past fly-fishing lakes and dams, rolling hills, winding rivers and waterfalls, all the while breathing in the clear country air and feasting your eyes (and soul) on the surrounding scenic beauty and glorious views. It worked for me. For those who prefer to go the more energetic route, there are mountain bikes and more strenuous hiking trails over the hills where the views are amazing and where you can get close to the estate’s wildlife.

If you’re keen tolearn (or hone) fly-fishing skills you’ve come to the right place. Walkersons’ 14 lakes and dams are stocked with rainbow trout and both novice and experienced fly fishermen can try their hand at the art of fly fishing. Another popular activity is taking in the views on horseback – the Dullstroom Riding Centre, situated on the estate, next to the Spa, offers horse riding for riders of all levels at affordable rates. For golfers, the Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate with its magnificent Ernie Els signature golf course (rated as one of the best in South Africa) is just 30 kms away.

Don’t, like I did, forget your swimmers…there’s the sparkling pool hidden in a dip below the lawns that is just the thing for a soothing, cooling dip in the heat of the day. For the seekers of ultimate relaxation there’s the luxurious spa situated in a moss-covered stone cottage close to the main reception that offers a range of treatments.

Yes, there’s much to do at Walkersons… but, Walkersons also provides the most wonderful opportunity to embrace a slower pace and make your break at Walkersons something to relish, soak up, cherish and delight in.

by Di Sparks

Read more on Walkersons HERE.

SPECIAL OFFER: TWO NIGHT WEEKEND STAY – Book a 2-night weekend stay at Walkersons Hotel & Spa and enjoy a 25% discount. Valid FOR Friday and Saturday nights, hotel suites only and subject to availability.

For more information, please visit www.walkersons.co.za

Reservations: +27(0)13 253 7000 or reservations@walkersons.co.za

Facebook: @WalkersonsHotelandSpa

Instagram: @walkersonshotel

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