Highlight: The Colonel Potter Bar

Time for a tipple at Walkersons Hotel & Spa

The Colonel Potter Bar at Walkersons Hotel & Spa invites guests to experience a blend of classic charm and tranquil surroundings which characterise a stay in Dullstroom. With its plush seating, entertainment library and sophisticated décor, this bar exudes a timeless refinement, transporting you to a bygone era of tradition and relaxation.

Take a look at some of the highlights and history of the bar in our latest blog post below.

Timeless Elegance Meets Highland Hospitality

Located in the main hotel adjacent to the restaurant, The Colonel Potter Bar offers a cool retreat to enjoy a drink during the warm summer months. Guests can unwind at the bar itself or move onto the terrace to enjoy a sundowner, with breathtaking views of the estate creating the perfect backdrop for an evening drink.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail, a glass of fine wine, or something bubbly to celebrate the moment, our friendly and knowledgeable bar staff are always on hand to craft or recommend the perfect beverage to suit your taste.

Inspired by South African Fly-Fishing

The Colonel Potter Bar at Walkersons Hotel & Spa pays homage to one of South Africa’s most celebrated fly-fishing traditions. Named after the Colonel Potter fly, this bar embodies the art, ingenuity, and history that make South African fly-fishing unique.

Fly-fishing is not only a pastime here but also a vital part of the local economy. A 2014 study by Cobus Venter of Stellenbosch University highlighted its significant impact, contributing R1.8 billion annually to South Africa’s GDP and providing employment to approximately 13,000 people.

Just as the Colonel Potter fly helped anglers reel in trophy fish, the bar invites guests to savour a drink while reflecting on the rich heritage of this beloved sport.

The Legend of the Colonel Potter Fly

The Colonel Potter fly is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, combining a twist of chicken feather, chenille yarn, and cock feathers to create a highly effective trout lure. Invented by Dr. Charles Potter, the fly proved its prowess in Mpumalanga’s streams, as well as the rivers and dams of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and the eastern Free State.

Its reputation grew when Potter’s 11-year-old son, Luke, used it to win the South African Fly Fishing Association cup, landing a 2.5kg trout from the Spekboom River. In 2019, tragedy struck the Potter family when Luke was killed in a terrorist attack in Nairobi. In his son’s memory, Dr. Potter shared the family secret, releasing instructions for crafting the fly through the Dullstroom Fly Fishing Association. The Colonel Potter fly joined a proud legacy of South African trout flies, embodying both innovation and deep emotional resonance.

At Walkersons, the story of the Colonel Potter lives on, weaving together tradition, ingenuity, and remembrance in the serene setting of Dullstroom.

Classic Cocktails & South African Wines

The Colonel Potter Bar offers a curated menu of signature cocktails and proudly South African wines to delight every palate. Guests can sip on expertly crafted classics like a rich and indulgent espresso martini or a crisp, refreshing gin and tonic. For wine enthusiasts, our bar showcases the extraordinary talent of South Africa’s winemakers through a thoughtfully curated selection of locally produced wines. From bold reds to elegant whites and sparkling varietals, each bottle has been chosen to celebrate the diversity and excellence of South African viticulture. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of exploring or toasting to a special occasion, the Colonel Potter Bar provides the perfect pairing for any moment.

If you are visiting Dullstroom, we invite you to come and experience The Colonel Potter Bar for yourself and take a moment to relax, order a cocktail and indulge in the timeless charm of this unique gem at Walkersons Hotel & Spa.

Image credits:
Kyle Lewin
Chris Collingridge