Only 2 hours from Gauteng, en route to the Kruger National Park

Picture a log fire, a misty morning, a trout stream. Not a dream - it's Dullstroom.

Whether you refer to this neck of the woods as Trouteng or as the fly-fishing suburb of Jo'burg, makes no difference. This quaint village, known for its high altitude fresh air, has become the place to be.

Be it for a quick break away to country fresh air, for a fine dining experience or for family fun, Dullstroom has a lot to offer.

The village, situated at 2100m above sea level in the Steenkampsberg range, dates back to the early 1880's, when Dutch settlers came to the area. The town derives its name from one Wolterus Dull, chairman of the Dutch immigrants. The "stroom" (stream) refers to the abundance of water in the area: The Crocodile River, which runs through the Kruger National Park, has its origin in Dullstroom. Other major tributaries, like the Lunsklip, Klip River, Steelpoort and Elands River, do not only feed important rivers and marshlands, but have also become synonymous with some of the best trout fishing in the country.

The area is known for its cool, sub-alpine climate and its misty atmosphere, reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands. It is also known as habitat for the three endangered cranes, a vast variety of wild flowers and rare species of mammals - a true paradise for the nature lover.

But Dullstroom and surrounds is primarily a haven for family fun, fly-fishing and country fresh air. The wide selection of elegant hotels and a variety of country accommodation, eateries, shops and activities, have made this an appealing tourist destination and an ideal stop-over on the way to the Lowveld and Kruger Park.