Escape to Dullstroom: The Highlander Hotel's Unforgettable Magic
Escape to Dullstroom: The Highlander Hotel – Where Magic Happens (Maybe With a Few Quirks)
(SEO Keywords: Dullstroom, Highlander Hotel, South Africa, Mpumalanga, Luxury Hotel, Spa, Wellness, Food, Family Friendly, Accessible, Romantic Getaway, Reviews)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea (and maybe some of that delicious Complimentary Tea, which, by the way, is a lifesaver on those chilly Dullstroom mornings) on The Highlander Hotel. Let me preface this by saying I'm not a robot; I'm a hot mess of opinions and slightly-too-high expectations, so this review will probably be the opposite of polished. It's going to be, well, real.
First Impressions & Getting There (The Accessibility Debacle)
First things first: getting to Dullstroom. It’s a drive, folks, a windy, scenic drive that almost justifies the trip on its own. Almost. Then you arrive at The Highlander, and it's…well, it's Highland-y. Stone walls, charming (if slightly imposing) architecture, and a sense of rustic elegance.
Okay, so, the Accessibility… Let's just say it's a bit of a mixed bag. I’m not in a wheelchair, but I appreciate hotels that think about it. The website claims some accessibility features, but I wouldn't bet my bottom dollar on it. Elevator? Yes, thankfully! Facilities for disabled guests? I saw some ramps, but how effective they are? I can’t fully say. I suggest calling ahead and getting very specific answers if this is a dealbreaker for you. This is an area they really need to improve on. Because while the idea of a cozy escape is tempting, the practicalities must be sorted for everyone.
The Rooms: Cozy Nests & the Siren Song of Blackout Curtains
Once past the (potential) accessibility hurdles, the rooms are lovely. I stayed in a room with a Seating Area - that’s a good thing! The Blackout Curtains are a gift from the gods. Seriously, you could sleep through a nuclear winter in those things. And you know what? You probably should. Dullstroom is all about embracing the chill, taking a nap, and forgetting what day it is. Air Conditioning is a blessing, I'm not sure how I'd survive without it, considering Dullstroom can get hot during the day. Bathtubs? Oh, yes. Enough space to spread out and forget about the outside world. I'm talking bliss. There was also a Bathroom phone, just in case you need to phone for a refill on your complimentary bubbles.
But let’s be honest. My room's biggest problem? The Internet access – wireless was a little spotty. The Internet Access – LAN was also available, but, you know, who uses wires anymore? The biggest disappointment, considering my job is online.
Food, Glorious Food… and The Occasional Kitchen Snafu
Okay, lets talk about the true star of The Highlander: the food. Honestly, I could happily eat every meal there. With choices of A la carte in restaurant, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, and Western cuisine in restaurant. The Breakfast [buffet] is a thing of beauty. The Alternative meal arrangement is available, which is good.
I'm all about their Room service [24-hour]. They have a Bar, perfect. Sometimes, at 3 AM, I'd get the urge for a Desserts in restaurant.
I will say this: during a particularly rough night, my food got completely messed up. I requested something, and got completely different food. It was almost comical. They did, however, promptly fix the situation.
But let’s be honest. A place is only as good as it’s food. And The Highlander's food is top-notch.
Relaxation & Rejuvenation (The Spa Shenanigans)
This is where The Highlander really shines. The Spa is a slice of heaven. I spent an afternoon there and emerged feeling like a new person. The Body wrap was divine – I’m pretty sure I almost fell asleep and morphed into a human burrito. The Sauna, the Steamroom. My goodness! It was the perfect way to spend an afternoon, and it was exactly what I needed.
And the Pool with view? Seriously, how can you not love that?
The Massage was fantastic, I swear I floated out of the spa. I even thought about indulging in a Foot bath, but I ran out of hours in the day. One problem: despite the Professional-grade sanitizing services, the whole process felt… a little rushed. The staff were lovely, don't get me wrong, but I prefer to unwind without feeling like I'm on a production line. But hey, everyone is different! And I can't deny, The Highlander knows how to do spa, and wellness.
Things to Do (Beyond Napping)
Okay, so you’re not just going to lie in bed all day (though, let’s be honest, that’s tempting). Dullstroom is all about the outdoors. You can go fly-fishing, hiking, or just wander around the town. The hotel has a Fitness center, if you need a dose of that kind of madness. They also have Outdoor venue for special events, but I didn't see any.
Cleanliness and Safety (Thank Heavens!)
During these times, this is a huge deal. And The Highlander takes it seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hot water linen and laundry washing, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, and Staff trained in safety protocol. Yes, yes, and yes! They've even got Sterilizing equipment. I felt safe, which is a huge weight off your shoulders, right?
For the Kids (A Mixed Verdict)
The Highlander is Family/child friendly. They offer Babysitting service and Kids meal. I didn’t see a dedicated kids club or water slides or anything like that. It's more about enjoying the beautiful surroundings as a family, with a hint of luxury.
The Quirks & Imperfections (Because Life Isn't Perfect)
Look, The Highlander isn't perfect. Some of the staff could be a little more engaging. The Internet could be better. The accessibility issue needs a serious look. But hey, nobody's perfect.
But it's the imperfections that give a place character, right? The little hiccups and unexpected moments create a memory. That's what makes the Highlander special.
Final Verdict: Worth the Escape? Absolutely!
Overall, I had a fantastic stay at The Highlander. It's a beautiful escape, a place to unwind, and a perfect base for exploring Dullstroom. The food is incredible, the spa is heavenly, and the rooms are cozy cocoons. Yes, there are quirks. Yes, there's room for improvement. But if you're looking for a touch of luxury, a dash of rustic charm, and a whole lot of relaxation, The Highlander is definitely worth the journey. I'd go back in a heartbeat. Just maybe I'd email them about the internet first. And maybe, maybe, I’d bring my own bottle of bubbles!
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- Title: Escape to Dullstroom: The Highlander Hotel's Unforgettable Magic (Review)
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- Keywords: Dullstroom, Highlander Hotel, South Africa, Mpumalanga, Luxury Hotel, Spa, Wellness, Food, Family Friendly, Accessible, Romantic Getaway, Reviews, Accommodation, Dullstroom Restaurants
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Alright, buckle up, buttercups! We're heading to The Highlander Hotel in Dullstroom, South Africa. This ain't your perfectly-curated Instagram trip. This is ME, bumbling through the weekend, with all my hang-ups, joys, and questionable decisions thrown in for good measure.
Day 1: Highland Hustle & Heartburn (Maybe)
- Afternoon (ish): Arrive at O.R. Tambo (Johannesburg), and immediately regret wearing those skinny jeans. Airport chaos? Check. Rental car pick-up? Pray for a decent GPS. Pray even harder I don't accidentally drive on the wrong side of the road. Seriously. The thought gives me hives.
- The Drive: OK, so the GPS actually worked! Mostly. The scenery? Breath-taking. Rolling hills, the air smells amazing (I'm practically allergic to big city air). I'm singing along to my terrible playlist when…bam! Construction. Traffic. Already late. Did I mention my bladder is screaming?
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Finally, The Highlander! It's… gorgeous. Rustic charm oozing from every stone. The fireplace in the lobby – oh, my lord, I want to move IN. Check-in is a breeze (score!), and the lady at the desk greets me with a "Welcome, darling!" Felt like I was entering a storybook. My room… it's all wood and quilts and a giant tub. I could probably live here forever. Okay, maybe not forever. But for, like, a week.
- Dinner at The Highlander Restaurant: Okay, THIS is where the wheels almost came off. The menu is a symphony of game meats and hearty fare. I'm tempted by the ostrich (brave, right?), but then I spot the venison pie. Venison pie. I had it in my head, from the moment I learned I was going on this trip, that I HAD to have venison pie. I order it, feeling like a majestic, pie-loving queen. The first bite… heaven. The second bite… I realize I’ve eaten way too fast. The third bite… I start to feel… something. Bloated. Heavy. A mild panic sets in - did I just overdo it? (Spoiler: I did. I'm regretting my life choices as I write this).
- Evening: Stumble back to my room, loosen my belt buckle (mortifying, I know), and sink into that glorious tub with a bottle of the local wine (the hotel staff had kindly recommended). The wine is delicious, but I’m still kinda regretting the pie. I promise myself I’ll be sensible tomorrow. (Famous. Last. Words.)
Day 2: Fly-Fishing Follies & Fireside Fantasies (and Possibly Another Pie)
- Morning: Wake up feeling surprisingly okay! The view from my window is… wow. Misty hills, sheep grazing, the sun peeking over the horizon. I could get used to this. After some caffeine (I'm officially addicted to the coffee from this hotel), I attempt fly-fishing lesson. I've always dreamed of it, to be this graceful, thoughtful person, as the sun warms me. Reality? Let's just say, I spent as much time tangled up in the line as I did actually casting. My instructor, a patient man named Barry, kept saying things like, "Just a flick of the wrist, darling." Flick, schtick. I was flailing. But, I did manage to hook one – and I didn't feel the guilt I thought I would.
- Lunch: I decide against a super heavy meal. The hotel arranged a light lunch in the gardens with some other guests- chicken salad sandwiches and some local beer. I had a nice chat with a woman who looked like a retired movie star, telling me about her divorce, but I wouldn't swap it for anything.
- Afternoon: EXPLORE! The town of Dullstroom is TINY. Beautiful, though. Quirky shops selling artisanal cheese, hand-knitted sweaters, and enough antiques to make your head spin. I buy a ridiculous hat (I needed it). I stop at a local art gallery, spend way too much time admiring the sculptures from the place and wishing I could afford one. I have an ice cream and sit on a bench, just watching people. It feels… good.
- Evening: Dinner at Harries Pancakes! (This is mandatory in Dullstroom, apparently). I order a savory pancake with biltong and cheese. And then… another for dessert. This time a sweet one, with caramel and cream. I tell myself I’m balancing the pie from last night. (Spoiler: I am not.) After dinner, a nightcap by the fireplace in the hotel bar. Feeling content (and slightly overstuffed). The conversations flow, and for a brief, beautiful moment, all is right with the world.
Day 3: Goodbye, Highland Heights (and hello, reality)
- Morning: One last delicious breakfast at the Highlander (eggs Benedict – because balance is a lie). I take a final wander around the grounds. I want to remember every second. I'm not ready to leave this place – this feeling of peace, of something other.
- Departure: The drive back to the airport is less stressful than the arrival. I've got the hang of these roads. I'm already planning my return.
- The Verdict: The Highlander Hotel? Absolutely incredible. Dullstroom? A little slice of heaven. Did I eat too much pie (and other delicious things)? Possibly. Did I feel a connection to myself, to nature, to everything? Definitely. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. (Just, maybe, I'll pace myself with the food next time. Maybe.)
Escape to Dullstroom: The Highlander Hotel FAQs - Honestly, It's a Trip
What's the big deal about Dullstroom and The Highlander Hotel? Is it REALLY all roses?
Okay, so, Dullstroom. Picture this: the kind of place where the air smells like woodsmoke and *almost* fresh-baked bread (more on the "almost" later). And The Highlander? Well, it's been hyped to high heaven, I’ll admit. Think: rustic charm, fireplaces, and promises of a proper escape. Is it perfect? Hah! No. But is it magical? Sometimes, yeah. Let’s just say, my experience was...complicated.
See, I went expecting this flawlessly curated experience of luxury. Turns out, it's more like perfectly *imperfect* luxury. And honestly? That’s the bit I grew to love. It’s got character. And a few quirks, which we'll get to.
Okay, the rooms. Spill the tea. Are they as cozy as the pictures suggest?
Look, the pictures are gorgeous. Seriously, those online photos are *designed* to make you want to chuck your laptop out the window and run for the hills (metaphorically, of course, unless...). My room? It was… a mixed bag. Yes, the fireplace was real. Yes, the bed was comfortable. But, (and this is the bit the photos *don't* show), the bathroom floor was a little… chilly. And one time, the hot water *completely* gave up the ghost WHILE I was mid-shower. Talk about waking up!
The staff were quick to fix it (eventually), and the apology was genuine, but I'm still a bit scarred. You just learn to embrace the cold, I guess. Or bring a portable heater. Just be prepared for a little…adventure. Embrace the imperfection! Makes for a better story, right?
The Food! People rave about the food. What was your verdict?
Ah, the food. My stomach is rumbling just thinking about the restaurant. The Highlander did NOT disappoint. Listen, if you like hearty, stick-to-your-ribs food, you're in for a TREAT. Think: game, stews, and more stews. The lamb shank? Legendary. Like, seriously, I think I dreamt about that lamb shank for a week after. It was fall-off-the-bone tender, rich, and *divine*.
The breakfast, though... let's just say it was a rollercoaster. The full English one day was perfection, the next? The eggs were a tad rubbery. The sausage was a little over-cooked. Consistency is clearly not their main goal! Again, though, that sense of *character*. Embrace it. Plus, the coffee was strong enough to raise the dead, and the view from the restaurant is stunning. Overall? Mostly heaven.
What about the staff? Are they as charming as the promo material suggests?
Okay, the staff. This is where things get a little… complicated. Some of them were *utterly* lovely. Warm, friendly, and genuinely helpful. A few, bless their hearts, seemed to be a bit green around the gills with service. I remember asking for a gin and tonic once, and the poor waiter looked at me like I'd asked him to perform brain surgery. He eventually got the drink sorted, though, and with a smile.
The manager? He seemed to be everywhere, personally involved, making sure everything was, well, happening. And, they were really responsive when that water heater failed. So, again, a mixed bag. If I were rating staff, I'd give a thumbs-up mostly, but with a caveat: be patient. You're on "slow time" in Dullstroom. Relax. Breathe.
Let's get real. What was the absolute *worst* part of your trip?
Oh, man, it’s a toss-up between the aforementioned cold shower, or… the internet! The Wifi! Was. A. JOKE. Seriously. I fully expected a digital detox, and I got one, whether I wanted to or not. Trying to get a signal was like playing a really frustrating game of hide-and-seek. I ended up pacing the hallways at 3am, desperately trying to check my emails, looking like a madman and probably scaring the cleaning staff already. It was brutal. Prepare to embrace the silence...or bring a satellite phone. Seriously. I think I'd have gotten a better signal from a pigeon.
And the best part? What made it all worthwhile?
Hands down, the *fireplace*. And the *atmosphere*. Even with the lack of internet, the cold shower, and the (sometimes) iffy sausage. There's something about sitting in front of a roaring fire, sipping red wine, and just… *being*. The air is so crisp, so clean. The stars at night are insane. I'm a city slicker, so this was pure magic.
There's a feeling of genuine peace at The Highlander. A sense of escaping the day-to-day grind. And let's be honest… the food! That lamb shank! I’d go back just for that. And the peace. And, you know, maybe a better chance of a decent wifi connection. But hey, I can always use it as an excuse to unplug. It's a gamble, but an enjoyable one.
Is The Highlander Hotel Family-Friendly?
That's a good question. I saw a few families. There's definitely space to run around, and the activities in and around Dullstroom are suitable for kids AND adults, like fishing. However, I didn't get the *vibe* of pure family focus. It felt more geared towards couples and those seeking a quieter getaway. So, yes, kids are probably *okay*, but maybe not the best fit if your children are the "run amok" type. You'd need to inquire directly and see. And those fireplaces? Always a safety issue with kids.
What's the "vibe" of Dullstroom itself? Can you get bored?
Dullstroom is SMALL. Like, blink-and-you'll-miss-it small. It's got a main street with some cute shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Fishing is HUGE. Apparently, the trout are amazing. I triedSmart Traveller Inns
