5 Best Stops Along The Panorama Route

The Panorama Route is an ideal day-trip from Walkersons Hotel & Spa. Begin your journey at the magnificent Blyde River Canyon located just 3 and a half hours away, meander your way along the lauded route, and make your way back to the hotel from the town of Graskop – just a one hour and 45-minute drive. Read more to find out about the 5 Best Stops along the Panorama Route below!

1. Blyde River Canyon

Known to be the third largest canyon in the world and an incredible natural wonder, the Blyde River Canyon is a must-see when visiting Mpumalanga. Enjoy multiple striking viewpoints including Pinnacle Rock and God’s Window, which can be found a short drive away.

Make sure to walk around each of the smaller viewpoints located at the main canyon stop and, if you’re lucky, try and join a little tour and history lesson with one of the guides.

2. The Three Rondavels

Forming part of the Blyde River Canyon, the Three Rondavels can be viewed from the first stop, as well as lower viewpoints found down the road. Due to their shape resembling a traditional hut, or ‘rondavel’, this is where the peaks gained their namesake. The three pointed peaks are also commonly known as “The Three Sisters” or “Three Wives” next to their chief, Mapjaneng, represented by the flat-topped peak. 

3. Bourke’s Luck Potholes

Another one of the top stops along the Panorama Route is Bourke’s Luck Potholes. Formed by centuries of swirling water, this geographical wonder is a truly unique spectacle. Discover the tale of two rivers, the Mpumalanga gold rush, and gold digger Tom Bourke, after whom the area is named. 

Bourke’s Luck Potholes is also the starting point for several wonderful hikes such as the 12.5km Protea Trail.

4. Pilgrim’s Rest

Declared a National Monument and a significant point of history in the area, take a moment to walk the well-worn streets of a town that time forgot. Pilgrim’s Rest was an imperative part of the gold rush in the 1800’s and has maintained its original charm. Peruse the museum and indulge in some local cuisine before moving on to your next stop.

5. Graskop

Another important town in the gold rush and timber industry is Graskop. Not only is this an area of great historical value but it is also home to Harrie’s Pancakes; a culinary institution and an absolute must during your visit. 

A more recent addition to the town is the new Graskop Glass Lift. Built over the magnificent Graskop Gorge, descend into the lush forest below with a panoramic view over the gorge and beyond. Upon reaching the forest floor, meander a 600m interactive indigenous exhibit full of wonderful walkways, suspension bridges, and a lovely waterfall. 

If you feel daring, drive less than 2 minutes down the road and take a leap of faith with the “Big Swing” or a zipline.

Thanks to the Blyde River and Truer River, the Panorama Route is home to several lovely waterfalls to marvel along the way. Some of our favourites are Lisbon Falls, Mac Mac Falls, The Berlin Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. View more of the wonderful waterfalls found along the route here.

If fly-fishing, a wonderful estate, and an amazing self-drive adventure along the Panorama Route sound like your idea of the perfect holiday, be sure to visit our website, book online, and visit magical Mpumalanga.

Keep an eye out on our Specials Page for midweek and self-catering deals at Walkersons Hotel & Spa.