LOCATION
To get to Dunkeld Country & Equestrian Estate, Dullstroom, drive about three hours east from Johannesburg, past Emalahleni (formerly known as Witbank).
We arrived in the dead of night, thanks to a mechanical breakdown in Emalahleni (lovely town, good people, terrible Wimpy) and missed the turn to Dullstroom, off the N4, when the GPS broke down. However, it's an easy trip in daylight and without drama, simply turn towards Belfast at the Highlands meander signs.STYLE
Dunkeld is smart if you are staying at its chic lodge. But for a simpler visit, their self-catering chalets are cosy and womblike against the cold - the estate's location 2,100m above sea level makes it misty and icy, which is why it's modelled on Scotland.For lunch, head to town where there is plenty to be found, from pancakes to gourmet food, or naartjies and nuts on the side of the road. There's a treasure trove of waffles called Waffle & Co (the savoury Cape Malay Curry waffle was my favourite), a spot called Harries Pancakes and a fine-dining place called Food is Art, which offers modern cuisine on its eclectic menu.
ACTIVITIES
Stay indoors and enjoy the fire and your family's company in the afternoons after a full morning of forest hikes and searching for waterfalls...