When it comes to travel, size doesn’t always matter. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are tucked away in the tiniest corners of South Africa, where small towns boast outsized charm, quirky characters, and unexpected adventures. Whether you’re after rolling countryside, fresh air, or art-filled alleyways, these weekend getaways prove that good things often come in small, delightful packages.
Clarens, Free State – The arty one
Picture/Clementines
Nestled beneath the Maluti Mountains, Clarens is a canvas of creativity. This Free State town is beloved for its art galleries, quirky cafés, and sandstone buildings that glow golden at sunset. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and you might find yourself buying locally made pottery or hiking into the golden hues of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Cosy guesthouses dot the town, and every meal feels homemade, especially at the beloved Clementines or Highland Coffee Roastery.
Best time to visit:
Autumn (April–May) for warm days and colourful foliage.
Travel tip:
Stop by the Clarens Brewery for a tasting paddle and pick up handmade chocolate or fudge from the local market.
Prince Albert, Western Cape – Karoo cool
Picture/The Passenger
Where the arid Karoo meets mountain majesty, Prince Albert charms with its Victorian architecture and olive groves. It’s a haven for foodies and stargazers alike. Spend your morning at the local Saturday market, browse antique shops, and taste the Karoo’s flavours at The Real Food Company. Don’t miss a drive over the Swartberg Pass — a winding marvel with dramatic views. Evenings are for counting stars in a sky so clear, it’s practically cinematic.
Best time to visit:
Spring or early autumn, when the weather is mild.
Travel tip:
Fuel up before arriving — petrol stations are limited — and book a guided walk with a local historian to really get a feel for the town’s heritage.
Dullstroom, Mpumalanga – Highland escape
Picture/SA Venues
At over 2,000m above sea level, Dullstroom is one of South Africa’s highest towns and a fly-fishing paradise. But beyond the trout-filled streams, you’ll find whisky tastings, art boutiques, and cobbled paths perfect for weekend wandering. It’s misty, moody, and romantic — a little like the Scottish Highlands, with a local twist. Pair your stay with craft beer tastings and log-fire evenings at charming country inns.
Best time to visit:
Year-round, but bring a jacket — even in summer.
Travel tip:
Visit Birds of Prey Rehab Centre just outside town for an educational raptor experience — great for kids and nature lovers alike.
ALSO READ: Tips for choosing the perfect accommodation for your solo trip
Nieu-Bethesda, Eastern Cape – Off-grid and unforgettable
Picture/Sneeuberg Nature Reserve
Time seems to have stopped in Nieu-Bethesda, and that’s part of the magic. Tucked into a valley at the foot of the Sneeuberg, this tiny town is famous for the hauntingly beautiful Owl House — Helen Martins’ art legacy. No ATMs, no petrol station, and barely any cellphone signal — it’s the ultimate unplugged retreat. Wander dusty roads, chat with artists, and enjoy wood-fired pizza under starlit skies.
Best time to visit:
Summer (November–February), when the evenings are warm and alive with conversation.
Travel tip:
Bring cash, fill up your tank in Graaff-Reinet, and book your Owl House visit in advance during peak season.
Hogsback, Eastern Cape – A fairytale forest
Picture/Renee Bonorchis
Said to have inspired Tolkien’s Middle-earth, Hogsback is pure whimsy. Surrounded by ancient Afro-montane forest, waterfalls, and mossy footpaths, this mountaintop village is a dream for nature lovers and romantics. Explore the eco-shops, spiritual retreats, and hidden trails that feel worlds away from everyday life. Stay in a cabin with a fireplace and let the mist weave its magic.
Best time to visit:
Spring and summer are the seasons for waterfalls and floral displays.
Travel tip:
Pack a raincoat and proper hiking shoes — the weather here can shift suddenly, and you’ll want to explore all the trails.
Paternoster, Western Cape – Coastal charisma
Picture/South Africa Online
With its white-washed cottages and cobalt sea, Paternoster feels like a Mediterranean postcard. But this fishing village has a proudly local flavour, from snoek braais to seafood platters fresh off the boat. Ride a fat bike along the beach, sip wine at a seaside bistro, or browse hand-crafted homeware in boutique shops. It’s equal parts laid-back and luxurious.
Best time to visit:
September is for wildflowers and whale sightings.
Travel tip:
Book accommodation early in peak months and consider visiting on a weekday if you want the beaches (nearly) to yourself.
Nottingham Road, KZN Midlands – Countryside charm
Picture/Notts Brewery
With its rolling green hills and misty mornings, Nottingham Road is the heart of Midlands Meander country. A weekend here means sipping craft beer at Notties Brewery, exploring farm stalls, and cosying up at a country inn. It’s perfect for antique lovers, food enthusiasts, and families seeking a relaxing retreat in a postcard-worthy setting. Don’t forget your gumboots — and an appetite.
Best time to visit:
Winter for fireplaces and hearty pub fare.
Travel tip:
Use Nottingham Road as a base to explore nearby waterfalls, candle-dipping studios, and chocolate shops dotted along the Midlands Meander.
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