Drinking and nightlife in Mpumalanga

Top ChoiceNightlife in Dullstroom

This whisky bar, one of the southern hemisphere's best stocked, offers over 30 themed tastings and pairings (R165 to R865) of its 1400 world whiskies, ranging from single malts to bourbons. Other spirits including gin are also represented, as are South African producers. There's Innis & Gunn Scottish craft beer on tap and a shop selling around 300 whiskies.

Nightlife in Sabie

Owner Helen bakes everything herself and has even invented two cakes: the Middle Eastern Delight (featuring almonds, Turkish apricots, nutmeg and cloves, with honey and cream-cheese icing) and a pineapple coconut cream concoction. Coffees, milkshakes, smoothies and frappés are on the drinks menu and you sit among tomes from the adjoining bookshop (mainly the gardening and Afrikaans sections).

Top ChoiceNightlife in Sabie

Occupying a 1921 trading post, this microbrewery has a bar-restaurant in its pleasant modern interior. Grab a taster platter of the full range of seven beers (R60) to enjoy on the wooden deck overlooking Main St. It's a nice spot for a sundowner. Pub grub on offer includes burgers, cheese platters, lamb curry and pies (mains R45 to R170).

Nightlife in Dullstroom

Beans About Coffee has been importing, roasting and blending beans from Africa and South America for a decade. Grab a takeaway here and enquire about tours and tastings at the nearby roastery.

Nightlife in Lydenburg (Mashishing)

As you climb the Long Tom Pass 22km east of Lydenburg (Mashishing), stop at Africa's highest brewery, which makes light, 4% beers – but you'll still need a designated driver to navigate the serpentine bends afterwards. You can taste all five beers for R25. Dishes such as burgers, steaks, bangers and mash, toasted sandwiches and chicken curry are served, too (R40-150).