Stay In A Secluded & Charming Forest Cabin In Dullstroom

With the first day of autumn in South Africa only a few weeks away, it’s time to start planning for a cosy getaway.

You know, the type where the temperature drops and all you want to do is cuddle up with a good book next to a blazing fireplace and sip on a glass of wine or three.

Luckily, you don’t need to travel to the forests of Germany to get your cabin fix.

All you need is to take a road trip to the sleepy town of Dullstroom in Mpumalanga and check into one of South Africa’s most drool-worthy Airbnb listings!

Psst…Want more South Africa getaway inspiration? Check out these other posts:

• Top Romantic Getaways in South Africa
• The Most Secluded & Romantic Airbnbs in South Africa
• Staying in the Karoo Desert at Eco Karoo Lodge in South Africa
• Staying in a Cabin at Rosemary Hill Farm in Pretoria
• Nkala Lodge: An Exclusive Luxury Safari Getaway in Pilanesberg
• The Most Unique Places to Stay Near Johannesburg

How to Get to Dullstroom Forest Cabin

Dullstroom is a small town in Mpumalanga known for its trout fishing, tranquillity, and now a ridiculously good-looking forest cabin.

From Johannesburg, the fastest way to get to the town is to hop onto the N4. It’s an easy 3-hour drive from the city, and you can use Dullstroom as a detour on the way to the Blyde River Canyon or Kruger National Park.

If you’re coming from elsewhere in South Africa, it’s quicker to fly into O.R Tambo International Airport and hire a car, unless you’re in the mood for a South Africa road trip.

Tip: There are toll gates on the N4! Bring cash or a credit card.

Read More: The Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List (+ Free Checklist!)

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The Cabin

As you pull up to the Dullstroom Forest Cabin, it feels a bit surreal. You would expect to see the architecture style in Germany or Canada’s forests, not in a small town in South Africa.

Built on stilts, the towering trees surround the property, and all you hear are the sounds of nature (despite the few neighbours nearby).

Inside, you’ll find the kitchen of my dreams. It’s fully equipped with every possible pot, pan, and device you would need to whip up a delicious meal.

Then, there are the massive windows (the way to my architecture heart), letting in as much light as possible, no matter where you are in the cabin.

The open-plan dining room is home to a cupboard full of board games, a retro record player with classics like ACDC’s Back in Black album, and two reading nooks overflowing with books.

The main bedroom comfortably sleeps two, tastefully decorated and overlooks the garden. And last, but definitely not least, we have the bathroom. It has a gigantic shower (another one of my weaknesses), plenty of fluffy white towels and complimentary toiletries.

The only downside? There is no Wi-Fi.

On the one side, that’s a plus for travellers looking for a digital detox, but if you need to work, you’ll need to plan your schedule around the lack of connectivity.

The Amenities: The Cliffnotes

• One main bedroom with a sleeper couch
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Heater
• Extra warm blankets
• Alarm system
• Private patio area
• Bathroom with a shower only

Price From: R2,800.00 per night (check latest prices on Airbnb).

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Where to Eat in Dullstroom

If you’re not about the cooking-while-on-holiday-life, here are some of the best places to grab a bite to eat in Dullstroom:

Mad Hatter

The Mad Hatter is one of the best places for breakfast or lunch in Dullstroom. The quirky cafe is home to punny menus and Alice in Wonderland-themed decor.

Come for the childhood nostalgia and stay for the delicious cakes and hearty dishes like the “Tipsy Hen”. 

For caffeine connoisseurs like myself, you’ll be happy to know the Mad Hatter was nominated for the RASA Top 100 Coffee Shop Awards in 2019.

I didn’t have time to check out more places, but here are some other restaurants that come highly recommended:

• The Mayfly
• Mrs Simpsons
• Harries Pancakes

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What to Do in Dullstroom

Mountain Biking

As a balance-impaired person, I admire people who can hop onto any two-wheeled device without face-planting.

If you’re one of those magical humans, you can explore hundreds of mountain biking trails around Dullstroom. There are tracks for all levels, including downhill, freeride, and wild natural trails.

White River Rafting

There is something so exhilarating about river rafting. The adrenaline pumping through your veins, the fear you didn’t screw your GoPro on tight enough, and now it’s too late to check…

Whatever your experience level with rafting, you can tackle grade 1 -4 rapids near Dullstroom.

Rock Climbing

For my fellow mountain goats, you can explore the various rock climbing routes along the Steenkampsberg mountain range.

You can book an organised tour and throw in abseiling for some extra spice. 

Read More: A Beginner’s Guide to Rock Climbing in Railay, Thailand

Wild About Whisky

For an activity that doesn’t require a spike of adrenaline, make your way to Wild About Whiskey.

Browse the 1,100 bottles on display and sign up for the tasting menu. It includes 30 different whiskeys!

But if you’re not a whiskey fan, all hope is not lost. Wild About Whiskey also has craft gin, rum, brandy, and tequila tastings!

The good news is that you’re within walking distance of the forest cabin and can safely get back home without needing to drive a car or assign a designated driver.

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Final Thoughts

The Dullstroom Forest Cabin is a wonderful escape into Mpumalanga. It’s incredibly peaceful and is the perfect retreat from city life!

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway and want to feel like you’re the only two people left in the world, or you’re travelling solo, it’s worth the drive.

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Would you spend a night at the Dullstroom forest cabin?

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