Imagine … a spectacular mountainous landscape with isolated buttresses, sheer cliffs, and unusual geological features; imagine spectacular gorges, fairytale waterfalls and lush forests. I present to you ‘The Scenic Route’ in the magical province of Mpumalanga in South Africa. Mpumalanga which means ‘The place where the sun rises’.
The panoramic route offers the traveler a series of spectacularly scenic overlooks to experience this wonderland and includes views of the Blyde River Canyon (the third largest canyon in the world) and its Three Rondavels, God’s Window, Pinnacle Rock, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and several beautiful waterfalls like Mac Mac, Lone Creek, and Lisbon Falls. The region also has a historical influence and a visit to the historic gold mining town of Pilgrims Rest is a must. Take a stroll along its quaint little main road to see restored historic buildings and miners’ huts, visit the museum to see ancient mining relics, stop at the tourist office, and join a guided tour to experience life in the days of gold mining and try your luck at panning for gold.
Most of the scenic route is in Highveld. Views from God’s Window and Pinnacle Rock overlook the Lowveld below. These 2 areas experience comparatively different climates. The Lowveld is subtropical, due to its proximity to the warm Indian Ocean and its latitude. The Highveld is comparatively much cooler, due to its altitude of 2300m to 1700m above sea level. The Drakensberg Escarpment receives the most rainfall, and all other areas are moderately well watered by primarily summer thunderstorms. The Highveld often experiences severe frosts, while the Lowveld is mostly frost-free. Winter rains are rare, except for some drizzle on the cliff.
My suggestion for when traveling to South Africa is to combine a 2 night stay on or near The Panorama Route, with your African safari experience in the world famous Kruger National Park or in the private reserves west of Kruger. Three of my favorite luxury game havens are Londolozi Private Game Reserve, Savanna Private Game Reserve, and Lion Sands Private Game Reserve. They are all situated in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, known for its excellent animal watching and, in particular, for its brilliant leopard sightings.
Now to bring you back to your experience on the Panorama Route, my suggestion here would be that you stay at the award-winning Oliver’s Restaurant and Lodge. This hostel has earned a great name. It is managed by the owner and offers a pleasant home away from home experience. Situated on a quiet golf course estate with easy access to the Panorama Route, the Kruger National Park and Nelspruit, the nearest international airport.
The rooms at Oliver’s Restaurant and Lodge are luxurious, spacious and beautifully decorated. The attention to detail is excellent. The personalized service is first class. The kitchen is to die for. These attributes combined make it an absolute pleasure to stay here.
Spend the day lounging by the pool or being pampered in your wellness spa. A game of golf is right on your doorstep at the White River Golf Club. Outdoor activities in the region are plentiful and include quad biking, gorge swings, rafting, hot air balloon rides, scenic helicopter flights, hiking, and horseback riding. Obviously, since the Kruger National Park is only 25 km away, you can also enjoy game watching during the day in your own vehicle. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day wandering through the park observing our fascinating African wildlife.
Then one sees the abundance of options available to you in this area. It is worth spending a couple of nights here to get to know him and his friendly people. Just another magnificent part of our Rainbow Nation!
