8 South African towns you’ve probably never visited, but should this summer

Some of the most beautiful South African towns are the ones that rarely make the travel lists.

They don’t have airports or big resorts.

What they do have is slow mornings, friendly locals and scenery that stops you in your tracks.

And most of them are only a few hours’ drive from a major city.

If you’re looking for a summer weekend getaway that’s a little off the beaten track, these eight small towns are worth adding to your list.

PATERNOSTER, WESTERN CAPE

Paternoster is a fishing village on the West Coast, about two hours’ drive north of Cape Town.

It’s known for its whitewashed fishermen’s cottages, white beaches and fresh seafood.

Things to do: Walk along the beach, watch the fishing boats come in, and visit Cape Columbine Nature Reserve.

Its lighthouse, built in 1936, was the last manned lighthouse to be built in South Africa, and it’s still manned today.

Where to stay: Guesthouses, self-catering cottages and beachfront rentals.

GREYTON, WESTERN CAPE

Greyton sits at the foot of the Riviersonderend Mountains in the Overberg, about two hours from Cape Town.

Its oak-lined streets and historic cottages make it feel like a step back in time.

Things to do: Browse the local markets, enjoy a long country lunch, or hike the Boesmanskloof Trail, which links Greyton with the town of McGregor.

Where to stay: Country guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering cottages.

PRINCE ALBERT, WESTERN CAPE

Prince Albert lies in the Great Karoo, at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains.

It’s famous for its olives, figs and dramatic mountain scenery.

Things to do: Drive the spectacular Swartberg Pass, explore the town’s galleries and food spots, and enjoy the Karoo’s clear night skies.

Where to stay: Historic guesthouses, farm stays and self-catering cottages.

Tip: The Karoo gets very hot in summer, so plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings.

NIEU-BETHESDA, EASTERN CAPE

Nieu-Bethesda is a tiny Karoo village near Graaff-Reinet, with gravel roads and a quirky, creative spirit.

Things to do: Visit The Owl House, the extraordinary home and sculpture garden created by artist Helen Martins. You can also see ancient fossils at the town’s fossil centre, and stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country.

Where to stay: Small guesthouses, cottages and B&Bs.

HOGSBACK, EASTERN CAPE

Hogsback is a misty mountain village in the Amathole Mountains, surrounded by forests and waterfalls.

Local legend says it inspired the forests in JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, though that has never been proven.

Things to do: Hike the forest trails, chase waterfalls, and enjoy the cool mountain air.

Where to stay: Forest cabins, guesthouses and backpackers’ lodges.

PARYS, FREE STATE

Parys sits on the banks of the Vaal River, about an hour and a half’s drive south of Johannesburg.

It’s close to the Vredefort Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the largest and oldest known meteorite impact structure on Earth, created more than 2 billion years ago.

Things to do: Go river rafting or tubing on the Vaal, browse the antique shops, and explore the Vredefort Dome.

Where to stay: Riverside lodges, guesthouses and campsites.

DULLSTROOM, MPUMALANGA

Dullstroom is one of the highest towns in South Africa, which keeps it cool even in summer.

It’s a popular escape for Gauteng residents, about three hours’ drive from Johannesburg.

Things to do: Try fly-fishing in the local dams, browse the craft shops, and stop for a hearty meal.

Where to stay: Country cottages, guest farms and lodges.

HAENERTSBURG, LIMPOPO

Haenertsburg is a peaceful mountain village in the Magoebaskloof area, surrounded by forests and plantations.

Things to do: Hike the forest trails, visit the nearby dams and waterfalls, and explore the scenic Magoebaskloof Pass.

Where to stay: Forest cottages, guest farms and campsites.

TIPS FOR YOUR SUMMER WEEKEND GETAWAY

• Book early, since small towns have limited accommodation, especially over the December holidays.
• Check road conditions before you go, since some towns, such as Nieu-Bethesda, are reached on gravel roads.
• Support local businesses, from farm stalls to craft shops, since tourism keeps many small towns going.

I love that South Africa has so many small towns waiting to be explored. We really have it all.

You don’t always need a plane ticket for a proper break. Sometimes, a few hours on the road and a quiet village are all it takes.

My advice? Pick one, book early and switch off your phone for the weekend.