Top things to do in Mpumalanga

This stunning 260-sq-km reserve centres on the 30km-long Blyde River Canyon, where epic rock formations tower above the forested slopes and eagle-eye views abound at the dramatic meeting of the Drakensberg...

The area's highlight, with a staggering view of these enormous rounds of rock, their pointed, grassy tops resembling giant huts carved into the side of the canyon. There are short walks in the surrounding area to...

There’s a meat-driven menu and a warm atmosphere here, amid candles, wildlife photos and artworks. It's a great place to sample traditional South African dishes, especially game meat – from ostrich kebabs and...

Look out for the South African flag and follow the red-dirt track to this 'bush kitchen', a makeshift shelter beneath gnarly boulders and trees decorated with animal skulls, its terrace nudging the rocks in the...

These rocks at the entrance to town are painted in the style of 'outsider' artist Nukain Mabuza, who turned his humble labourer's accommodation on a nearby farm into a fantastic rock garden by colourfully...

Locals and weekenders in the know head 5km west of town to dine beneath metalwork chandeliers in this barn-like contemporary space, its terrace overlooking the organic kitchen garden. Waiters in black serve...

Its blue-grey walls hung with artwork and cage lampshades, Kuka's glass doors open onto a terrace decorated with fairy lights. It's a contemporary setting for cocktails, tapas, pizzas, seafood, sushi and grills;...

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...

These bizarre cylindrical holes were carved into the rock by whirlpools at the confluence of the Blyde and Treur Rivers. Bridges span the rivers, providing impressive views. There’s a small museum providing...

This centre, south of town off Rte 540, teaches visitors about raptor species and the dangers facing them – you can even spend a morning learning the art of falconry (R400). There are regular flying displays...

Affords stunning views up the canyon, to the glistening Blydepoort Dam at the far end surrounded by forested slopes. The rocky cones of the Three Rondavels formations are just visible, and you can see over the...

On chilly nights, a fire crackles in every corner of this converted dairy, which has an extensive menu featuring all-day breakfasts and pub grub. It's a good place for a wood-fired pizza and a beer or two with...

The town museum is well worth a stop, going back to the Pedi, who arrived here in the 18th century, and the Voortrekkers, who founded the town the following century. Exhibits include Pedi clothing, Voortrekker...

Attracting local couples, families and tourists, this classy set-up is renowned for its red meat, such as the recommended Mayfly rump topped with red wine, mushroom sauce and more, but it's also good for a cooked...

The chic white minimalist interior of Graskop's original pancake house, full of modern art and quirky touches, often fills with coach parties. You won’t find breakfast-style pancakes here but mostly savoury and...

This glass viewing elevator travels 51m down the sheer cliffs of Graskop Gorge, with views of the Big Swing opposite, to an elevated forest boardwalk, which leads 500m to a 70m-high waterfall via suspension...

Half pub, half restaurant, the Woodsman offers great food with a Greek twist. Moussaka, stifado stew, grilled calamari, mezedhes (starter plates) and other offerings are mixed with local dishes: pan-fried trout,...

This lounge-style steakhouse has a long menu offering steaks in global styles, including French (with sun-dried tomato butter) and Spanish (with smoked paprika and parsley butter), as well as biltong starters,...

This nicely restored general dealer's shop, decorated with local animal art, serves traditional dishes such as bobotie and ostrich-neck potjie stew. Burgers, prego rolls, chicken schnitzels, salads and toasted...

Locals rate this all-rounder with an expansive menu featuring hearty dinner mains such as surf and turf, ribs and wings, and flame-grilled steaks. There's lighter fare for lunch, including burgers, pancakes and...