If you’re planning a trip to South Africa, make sure you add these small towns to your bucket list as they offer a unique charm, away from the busy freeways and the honking of car horns…
WESTERN CAPE
- Knysna
Knysna lies along the Garden Route and offers spectacular lagoon and ocean views. Enjoy snorkelling to see the Knysna seahorse (the only one of its kind in the world!), whale watching cruises, and hikes in the forest to try spot the elusive Knsyna elephant. You’ll find plenty of art galleries, coffee shops, friendly people, and nearby attractions. Don’t miss a tour and tasting at Mitchells Brewery!
- Darling
Darling, situated on the West Coast, is one of South Africa’s leading artist colonies. Visit between August and October, and you’ll enjoy a multi-coloured carpet of wildflowers in the reserve! Here’s what to do in Darling.
- Franschhoek
Franschhoek, Franschhoek, in the Cape Winelands, by no means offers a small getaway. Known as the “gourmet capital of South Africa”, Franschhoek has exceptional restaurants, wineries, and guest houses. Try the Franshchoek Wine Tram and chocolate tasting at Huguenot Fine Chocolates.
- Paternoster
The fishing village of Paternoster, located on the West Coast, offers the perfect seaside escape. The white sandy beach is scattered with fishing vessels, boulders, and seashells. The locals will happily spin you stories of their time at sea or join you for a seafood beach braai as the sun sets. Don’t miss hiking to the lighthouse in the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve.
- Barrydale
Barrydale is situated along Route 62. Stop for a drink at Ronnie’s Sex Shop, enjoy a brandy tasting session at Barrydale Cellars, and taste the best milkshakes at the Barrydale Waterfront’s Blue Cow overlooking a duck-filled pond.
- Oudtshoorn
You will find Oudtshoorn in the ostrich country of the Karoo. There is plenty to do, from riding ostriches and exploring the Cango Caves, to meerkat experiences and crocodile cage diving. Don’t forget to try ostrich dishes in the local restaurants and pick up souvenirs, from leather products to painted ostrich eggs!
- Matjiesfontein
Formerly a railway stop, Matjiesfontein is now a tourist destination in the Great Karoo. The village was established as a fashionable Victorian health spa and is famous for its historical buildings. In 1975, the village was declared a national heritage site.
EASTERN CAPE
- Cape St Francis
Cape St Francis is a beautiful coastal village near Jeffrey’s Bay, ardently declared as one of the best surfing destinations in South Africa. Visit the SANCCOB Penguin Centre, Irma Booyson Floral Reserve, and Seal Point Lighthouse.
- Nieu Bathesda
Nieu Bathesda is fast becoming a Karoo pilgrimage, so much so that a Hollywood movie has even been filmed here. Visit the Owl House, a museum dedicated to the eccentric work of Helen Martins, and Kompasberg which marks the highest point in the Eastern Cape.
- Port St Johns
Port St Johns on the Wild Coast is popular among young backpacker’s due to its natural setting and opportunity for adventure. The village lies at the mouth of the Mzimvubu River which flows through twin mountains that have been termed the “Gates of St John”. Relax on one of the beaches, visit a sangoma (witchdoctor), hike the forest trails, and spot the incredible birdlife.
GAUTENG
- Cullinan
Cullinan is a diamond mining town near Pretoria, famous for the 1905 discovery of the largest diamond in the world. Visit the History Room, Sammy Marks Museum, and the Cullinan Big Hole, as well as enjoy adventure activities like gorge gliding, and abseiling.
FREE STATE
- Clarens
Lovingly called the “jewel of the Eastern Free State”, Clarens offers a farm-style stay at the foothills of the Maluti Mountains. The nearby Golden Gate National Park has spectacular mountain outcrops, streams, and wildlife. Activities include horse riding, abseiling, hiking, fishing, fossil hunting, and white water rafting.
KWAZULU-NATAL
- Port Edward
“Tucked between the Indian Ocean and the Umtamavuna River, Port Edward is a water sporting paradise that offers a quieter holiday alternative to the rest of the South Coast. Do a walking tour of Beaver Creek Coffee Farm, visit Riverbend Crocodile Farm, or take the kids to Wild Waves Water Park.
MPUMALANGA
- Dullstroom
Dullstroom, the “fly fishing capital of South Africa”, is only 2 hours from Johannesburg and offers the perfect weekend getaway. Expect plenty of scenic beauty, birdlife, antique shops, and dams filled with rainbow and brown trout. Don’t miss The Pancake Parlour for the best sweet treats imaginable!
- Pilgrim’s Rest
Pilgrim’s Rest is a national monument in its entirety. Established in the 1880s after gold was found along the banks of the Pilgrims Creek River, the town is now a living museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the early gold-rush days. Visit the historic gravesites such as Robber’s Grave, a grave that lies perpendicular to the other graves to prevent it from facing the rising sun.
- Kaapschehoop
Kaapschehoop is a haven about 25km from Nelspruit, characterised by misty mountains, high rainfall, period housing, and the last free roaming wild horses of South Africa. Previously called Duiwels Kantoor (Devil’s Office), the current name is derived from the discovery of gold.
- Sabie
Only 64km from the Kruger National Park, Sabie offers landscapes of pine plantations and waterfalls, and exceptional game viewing opportunities. The town is fantastic for mountain biking and hiking, as well as trips along the Panorama Route to view God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the Three Rondavels.
NORTH WEST
- Groot Marico
Groot Marico is known for its mampoer; a potent alcohol made from peaches. The town is called “Bosman Country” as it is where famous storyteller, Herman Charles Bosman, set most of his South African stories. The Herman Charles Bosman literary weekend is hosted in October each year.
NORTHERN CAPE
- Springbok
While Springbok is the largest town in the Namaqualand, it falls on our list for its exceptional beauty, especially during the spring months when it abounds in a multitude of colourful wildflowers. The streets lead from a central koppie which shows off the unique flora of the area, including the leafless Quiver tree that was used as a fort during the Second Boer War due to its excellent vantage point across the valley. Remains of the stone walls inside the koppie can still be seen today. Visit the Springbok Cage and the Klipkerk built in 1921.
- Sutherland
Sutherland is known for its sub-zero winter temperatures. However, if there is one thing that Sutherland is more famous for, it’s the exceptional star gazing. Tour at the local observatory where you can use the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere!
Which of these small towns are on your bucket list?
Main image by Klein Waterval Riverside Lodge (TG)
