
7 Best Places to Visit 3 hours from Johannesburg
Whether you prefer safaris and wildlife or long mountain walks, there is no need to travel far from Johannesburg to find excellent places to stay.
“Dine and Wine under the African Sky, to the sound of untouched nature”
Eco-Friendly Self Catering Accommodation Lodge in Schoemanskloof, Mpumalanga featuring secluded mountain chalets and tented cabins.
We had a wonderful time at Wolwekrans and we cannot wait to return. We loved that it was off the beaten track and the scenery was just amazing! 10/10 Would definitely recommend!
Gorgeous off the beaten track. Fabulous chalet for 2 families wanting to disconnect from life and connect with each other. The hot tub was a hit! Spacious and very well equipped. Will definitely go back
Well the road up the mountain is definitely not for small cars, which made our day as we love off roading and 4x4 adventures. It was definitely worth every moment getting to our destination. I highly recommend this place for people to get away from their busy lifestyles. I will definitely be returning for a break from everyone and everything. It's peaceful and quiet, with only the sounds of nature. Definitely food for the soul. It was like we were above the clouds, looking over mountains and very private.
What an absolute GEM!! Right under our noses... Thank you Sarah & team... Best mothers day ever! So private, stunning views, great hosts... Kids loved everything! Can not wait to be back!
We had a memorable weekend at Wolwekrans! The view from our tent was spectacular. It is so nice to stay in a secluded place where you feel alone with nature. To have your own private boma and a -hot tub (which we enjoyed as a plunge pool during the hot day) is an added bonus. We did the hike up to the mountain top and the scenery from up there is well worth the challenging route. We highly recommend Wolwekrans to anyone that wants a retreat-like getaway and/or adventure. Thank you Sarah for your friendly service.
Stunning view from the chelets and awesome service. The hikes are fun and would definitely recommend the mountain hike.
A hidden gem in the mountains of Schoemanskloof. There is only about 3 houses and then a newly erected canvas tent that I believe sleeps 4. The house was beautiful with a breathtaking view. Different hikes for different abilities. It is self catering so best to get everything you need before as coming up and down the mountain is tricky. You'll need a 4x4 to get up but the managers can also get you up there if you don't fancy trying yourself. We had a wonderful stay but we went in winter so dress warm as it gets freezing.
It's definitely a must in your lifetime. The road leading up the mountain forms part of the whole far-off into nowhere feeling. It's a fairly steep climb to the top, and a high clearance 4x4 or 2x4 with diff lock should be able to make it up (depending on the 4x2 drivers' ability and confidence). Everything you require in the chalets is there.
We had a wonderful stay at Wolwekrans Eco Lodge. Place was beautiful and had everything we needed - even in the kitchen. Enjoyed the hot tub, and also went for a swim in the pool. The view was spectacular. Will definitely not recommend using a 2x4 to get to the chalet, and this was part of the off-grid experience. Loved it.
We visited Wolwekrans for the 4th time and it was perfect as always! Breathtaking views and peaceful- just the place to go to escape the city. The chalet was super neat and clean. So much work has gone into maintaining and improving Wolwekrans- the addition of the outdoor hot tub is amazing! Sarah and Daniel are absolutely incredible and so helpful. Sarah has put in many hours of hard work with the horses and it was lovely to see the progress since we were last there in April. We hope to be back again!
A Heartfelt Thank You to Sarah Clark for check in on us on arrival and during our stay when a storm hit, she make sure all your needs are fulfilled. From the Complimentary Bottle of Bubbly, the dough in the fridge to make your first night a breeze, so delicious. You definitely need a 4x4 but our 2x4 made it as well. The View.....incredible and private. The luxury Tent, the hot tub, the Boma everything made our anniversary a romantic memory. Thank You Sarah and Team!!
We had a lovely Stay at Wolwekrans, Sarah and the staff are very friendly and helpful. The view we had and woke up to was absolutely beautiful. The wood fired hot tub a very cozy plus when the chilly wind was blowing. But be sure to light the fire for the tub soon as it takes a while to get hot. Will definitely recommend it and be back to visit again soon! A high ground clearance vehicle is a definite but the 2x4 drove the road up the mountain just fine.
We loved it at Wolwekrans Eco Lodge! The views are amazing and we had total privacy at our chalet. We went during the week so needed to be in contact with work etc and the Vodacom signal at the chalet was very good. The drive up the mountain is steep and you definitely need a high clearance vehicle.
4x2 vehicle a must to access the lodge. Absolutely fantastic if you want to be close to nature! The bread dough and the “varkie” oven was a treat! Will definitely go again! The chalet is clean and very well equipped.
Thank you Sarah from Wolwekrans! It was such a pleasure booking through you. Such clear and thorough communication from the day of booking till we departed. And so willing to answer all our questions. Loved the privacy, the amazing views and the walking trails. And the bread dough and varkie is such a wonderful idea. Will definitely recommend Wolwekrans to all our friends. Oh and the hot tub was very soothing after the Mountain trail. A wonderful place to relax and switch off completely!
It was such a nice break from the noise of the city. Daniel and Sarah was absolutely amazing and communication with them both was so easy and convenient. We were able to get hold of them at anytime and they responded within seconds. We really appreciate everything they did to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable. Getting up the mountain was very tough. We appreciate Daniel being there to guide us up and down. ONLY USE A 4X4.
Absolutely magnificent place to connect with nature (and yourself) - rooms are spacious, kitchen well equipped and the hot tub is stunning. We made use of it almost all night long under the stars. 4x4 needed to climb up the mountain!
Wolwekrans is a truly magical place! The road up is an adventure in itself requiring a 4x4 or high clearance vehicle and a sense of adventure. Once you arrive at your well appointed chalet you are greated by breathtaking views and immediately begin to unwind and relax. The cottages, although basic, are well equipped and comfortable. Evenings are spent around the fire before a piping hot shower and a comfortable bed with clean, crisp linen. Mornings are started over a cup of coffee before undertaking one of the few scenic hikes or just relaxing in a hammock and taking in the views. There are a few things to do in the area but because of accessibility, Wolwekraans is best enjoyed as a night or two's stop over just to relax and recharge.
Peace, tranquility and beauty - Wolwekrans has it all. The chalet is beautifully decorated, and beds very comfy. We loved being completely off the grid, and yet you still had everything you’d treasure on a chilly evening- hot water, solar lights, fireplace and braai areas. We enjoyed our evenings around the fire pit, using the “Varkie” to make delicious bread. While the kids spent hours in the hammocks stargazing. This place is a true getaway where you leave feeling refreshed but wishing you could’ve stayed longer. Communication with management was fantastic and very well organised.
Wolvekrans is an absolutely MAGICAL place. The cabins are lovely and spacious, with glorious mountain views in all directions. They kitchen well stocked with all the utensils plates, cups etc we needed. The beds are divine and the linen is deliciously soft. The outdoor seating area is big and has loads of options to sit and take in the breath taking view of the mountains. We used the fire pit boma both nights we were there, and the view of the sky,stars and mountain are also spectacular from the back. The double shower with glass Mountain View.. well that was winner for us! The photos just simply do not do this place justice. The hammocks o were great fun and The water from the fresh spring and absolutely delicious! I wish we could have brought it home! We opted for the fountain hike, it was the right choice for us. The hike ends at a beautiful spot in the Forrest with a fresh river running over the rocks and a little picnic area to sit at. The hike is not strenuous and gave us loads of time to look and feel the Flora of the mountain as well as the views of the mountain and sky. Wolvekrans has captured the enormity of the mountain that you are on as well as its surroundings, helping you feel part of the land, but also able to feel such enormous gratitude to be literally - high up on the side of the mountain!. Sarah and Daniel were both brilliant. Daniel picked us up as we left our car at the bottom of the mountain and Sarah took us down. Both himself and Sarah know the road so well and I’m glad we opted for that option. It really is a mountain pass 4x4 style. In my opinion, leave your car at the bottom and let the journey up and down be a part of the experience. The road is quite scary even for the “advanced 4x4ies”. We chatted with Sarah on WhatsApp, getting us some more firewood and kindly lent us binoculars for the weekend. So the communication was nice and easy. These mountains are truly magical and we were so blessed to have experienced this beautiful place. We can’t wait to go back for another scream into the mountains ⛰️❤️!
Wow, wow and wow! What a stunning stay we had. The woman we booked through, Sarah, was so lovely and informative and helpful. The accommodation itself was absolutely breathtaking with such sweet gestures such as bread dough waiting for us in the fridge so we could make some fresh bread. Everything you need has truly been thought of at the accommodation. We were so sad to leave this beautiful spot in the mountains.
Spectacular surrounding views, and stargazing at night a beautiful majestic experience. Definitely worth a visit. Do not under estimate the road leading up to the accommodation, only high clearance or 4x4 vehicles. Well worth the visit and experience. Sarah and Daniel were exceptional hosts, very friendly and accommodating. *****for them too.
Fantastic location. Friendly, efficient booking and information process. Stylish furnishings and layout in the cottages. Everything you could want in terms of self-catering equipment. The 4x4 route to get to the cottages is a nice drive and not too hectic. They unnecessarily don't supply towels... Not sure why not? Everything else is provided and is superb. Their cancellations and refund policy is unnecessarily punitive and rigid. We had a great stay.
Such a beautiful spot. Cant wait to go back. Kids loved the freedom and privacy. Did all the hikes from easy to challenging. Accommodation is simple but nothing more is needed. Loved the personal touch of bread dough left in the fridge.
Only for 4x4 owners. Stay on top of mountain in eco friendly lodge cabins. Great view. Quite suitable accommodation. The road is only suitable for proper 4x4 vehicles and drivers that love a challenge. Great breakaway away from concrete jungle. Walking trails with pool in mountain terrain
Wolwekrans is an unforgettable experience. My stay at this venue was absolutely wonderful! From the moment I arrived, the staff made me feel right at home. The cottage was spotlessly clean and tastefully decorated, being completely off grid but with all the comforts and the bed was incredibly comfortable slept like a rock. I appreciated the little touches such a complimentary Self bake bread! The location was perfect for me, being a complete getaway and made it completely peaceful at night. I heard all sorts wildlife when we took walk within minutes to the fresh swimming pool (no chlorine!) and also we took a brisk hike to a fresh stream! Overall, I can't recommend this guesthouse highly enough. The attention to detail, the warm and friendly staff, and the comfortable surroundings all contributed to a truly memorable stay. I will definitely be returning in the future!"
Our second visit to Wolwekrans was well worth the challenging drive up the mountain. We woke up to the cries of fish eagles, followed by the barking of baboons in the forest below our chalet. The views from the chalet perched on the edge of the mountain high above the forest, is unbelieveable. This hidden gem in Schoemanskloof is the perfect family destination. We heard that guided horse riding trails are planned, which is really great news!
One of the absolutely most beautiful places in South Africa. Highly recommended. Quiet and calm, we had a feeling we were the only one there the whole weekend, even tho 2 more families were staying at the same time.
Wow what a beautiful place! We had a great week with the most spectacular views . The rocky gravel road up the mountain and the chalets with it’s simplicity makes this a very special place to visit. We enjoyed the hiking and the pure clean mountain water. A special thank you to the managing team for there friendly assistance with everything. I will recommend this place 100%
We booked the Glamping tent for the weekend and it was amazing! All is clean and neat,with the most beautiful bathroom. The trails are the cherry on top! The scenery is MORE than beautiful,with waterfalls and also a pool that looks out on the beauty that surrounds you. Everywhere you look is beautiful!
We had an awesome time at Wolwekrans Eco Lodge. One of our best holidays yet! The chalet’s are well designed, with spectacular views! There’s great hiking trails on the farm with one leading to the peak of the mountain adjacent to a waterfall, with breathtaking views! The farm foreman and his wife are also very kind and caring people, going the extra mile to ensure you feel welcome during your stay! Would definitely recommend this place to anyone in need of a break! We will most certainly come back again! 10/10
Magnificent views, friendly management and outstanding accommodation with no load-shedding. Beautiful day hikes with four seasons in one day. Thanks so much Nedine, Ane and Danie and his wife for making our anniversary unforgettable. Will definitely visit again.
Combined with the stunning view and relaxing atmosphere a great location with an air of exclusivity. The manager and his wife are always willing to help and assist where needed, this was such a great place and we will definitely be returning
Firstly you need a 4x4 as the 4km dirt road is not suitable for a normal small car. Our Luxury Tent Chalet was absolutely fantastic. Clean, neat and tidy. Anything that you need is in the kitchen, with a build in braai, big fridge, fully stocked ice and also dough if you would like to make your own bread. There is a a fountain hike where you can sit & enjoy the natural spring fountain water and braai area. Thank you team for this amazing gem 💎 we had an excellent time and experience. We celebrated our 1 year anniversary and wouldn't have done it anywhere else.
Very nice ambience, family friendly and superb views. The “Varkie” and dough in the fridge was very special and the best bread ever😄 I would highly recommend this little piece of heaven. Very friendly management who went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable. Will defenitely visit again and again.
Best place to unwind and destress...we loved every part of it!
Lovely lodge. Far from anything. Completely quiet.
Absolute best place to escape to!! Loved everything about our stay Wolwekrans! We will definitely be back!
Had an awesome stay at the Wolwekrans Eco Lodge. Stunning views and accomodation was perfect. A must visit!
Thank you Louis for a wonderful weekend. My family enjoyed the stay. The hiking trails and scenery was amazing. This was the first time, I visit Wolwekrans for leisure and will definitely be back. Adri & Myself appreciate to be part of your Eden in the mountain, as the gas & solar providers. Johny Grobbelaar
This place is absolute magic! The views are simply breathtaking and the star gazing opportunities are second to none. We went on a couple of lovely hikes and had a dip in the swimming pool to cool off. This is a place where you can truly unwind...
Wolwekraans Eco lodge is a perfect getaway for those looking to esccape from the busy city life. Beautiful scenery, amazing views night sky and nothing but the ambient noise of nature. The chalets all have large decks with the most stunning views.
Had a lovely stay at the lodge when we where on our African Safari, we stayed for 2 nights, the views where amazing, we did love the off grid experience.
Wonderful stay. Loved feeling like we were the only people on the mountain. Couldn’t see any other cabins from were we stayed and absolutely loved it. Amazing view of the valley and the mountains. The drive up needs a 4x4 but was part of the experience and made us feel even more secluded.
First off you really do need a 4x4 to get here as there is a steep mountain ascent to get to the beautiful views! Don't be dumb and attempt it with a road car with low clearance. You'll get stuck on the mountain. We stayed in the third chalet (two double beds and two single beds). It is self catering. Five friends. It was so beautiful and peaceful here! Gorgeous views from the bathroom, patio, bedroom, and living room. You really are immersed in nature. The master bedroom is offset from the patio, with a shower with two huge glass windows looking out into the trees. There is also a cozy bay window opposite the double bed for reading books and just napping in full view of greenery. Really lovely master bedroom. The chalet came with a small fire pit area outside with seating. Possibly one of my favourite locations to chill as the side of the fire pit drops away to a lovely view. There is also a small dip pool a short drive away, really just for cooling off on a very hot day. The area around the pool was a little disappointing as the pool area could do with some outdoor furniture and shade/gazebo to spruce it up and make it comfortable. Overall we really enjoyed our stay. Would come back for a long weekend.
View in general amazing, but the shower view must be one of the best anywhere
Excellent service and communication. Best stay, best views. Nice routes for hiking and relaxing. Will definitely see me again.
Beautiful house with extraordinary 360° views of nature. Friendly and helpful staff. Would definitely be visiting again especially to bake bread in the 'varkie'.
Beautiful place to unwind for a weekend and very good place for milkyway and star circles photography....
Absolutely brilliant place, superb views, immaculate rooms and divine hosts! We will be back with more friends next time!
Whether you prefer safaris and wildlife or long mountain walks, there is no need to travel far from Johannesburg to find excellent places to stay.
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