If you are looking for the perfect blend of world-class golf, pristine nature, and luxury living, Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate in Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, is unmatched. Set among the rolling Steenkampsberg mountain range, this exclusive estate has become the premier weekend destination for golfers, fly-fishing enthusiasts, and families looking to escape the hustle of Gauteng.
Whether you are planning a boys’ golf trip, a family getaway, or a peaceful retreat into nature, here is everything you need to know about visiting and staying at Highland Gate.
The Ernie Els Signature Golf Course
The crown jewel of the estate is undoubtedly the 18-hole Ernie Els signature golf course. Rated as one of the best in South Africa, the course is uniquely challenging and visually spectacular.
Because the estate sits at an altitude of over 2,000 meters above sea level, the crisp mountain air actually allows your golf ball to travel further than it does at the coast. The course is designed to test low-handicap players while remaining highly enjoyable for weekend golfers, with dramatic elevation changes, deep ravines, and sweeping views of the Mpumalanga highlands.
How much are the green fees at Highland Gate?
A frequently asked question by visitors planning their trip is about the cost of playing. While rates are subject to seasonal changes, visitors can generally expect to pay premium estate rates.
- Standard Visitor Rates: Typically range between R850 and R1,200 for 18 holes.
- Golf Carts: Highly recommended due to the mountainous terrain (usually around R400 – R450 per cart).
- Pro Tip: Tee times book up weeks in advance, especially for weekends. It is highly recommended to book your golf at the same time you secure your accommodation.
Beyond the Fairways: Activities for the Whole Family
You don’t have to be a golfer to fall in love with Highland Gate. The estate is a secure, 700-hectare outdoor playground offering activities for all ages:
- Trout Fishing: Dullstroom is South Africa’s fly-fishing capital. The estate features beautifully maintained, well-stocked trout dams. It is strictly catch-and-release, offering a peaceful morning activity for anglers of all skill levels.
- Hiking and Trail Running: There are multiple marked hiking trails winding through the estate, taking you past waterfalls, deep gorges, and indigenous forests.
- Mountain Biking: The quiet, paved estate roads and off-road trails provide a safe and scenic environment for cycling.
- Bird Watching: The high-altitude wetlands are home to incredible birdlife, including the endangered Blue Crane and various birds of prey.
The Clubhouse and Dining
After a long day on the course or hiking the trails, the Highland Gate Clubhouse is the perfect place to unwind. The clubhouse features a fully equipped pro shop, luxurious locker rooms, and a fantastic restaurant and bar.
The deck overlooks the 18th hole and the valley below—making it the ultimate spot for a sundowner or a hearty lunch before heading back to your accommodation.
Where to Stay: Highland Peace Haven
To truly experience the estate, you need the perfect basecamp. Highland Peace Haven is a premium, luxury 3-bedroom self-catering holiday home located right inside the estate.
Boasting a 4.97/5 average rating and recognized in the Top 10% of homes on Airbnb, Highland Peace Haven is designed for comfort, connection, and relaxation.
Why guests love Highland Peace Haven:
- Space for the Whole Group: 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, comfortably accommodating families or small groups of up to 6 guests.
- Entertainer’s Dream: Features an indoor fireplace (essential for chilly Dullstroom evenings), a built-in braai, and a wood-fired pizza oven.
- Game Night Ready: Keep the family entertained with a pool table and table-tennis top.
- Golfer Friendly: Includes a golf cart garage for easy storage.
- Stress-Free Stays: Uninterrupted relaxation with backup power, free Wi-Fi, and seamless self-check-in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is Highland Gate Golf and Trout Estate located? The estate is located just 15 kilometers outside the charming town of Dullstroom in Mpumalanga, South Africa. It is roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Is Highland Gate family-friendly? Absolutely. With 24-hour security, quiet roads for kids to ride their bikes, hiking trails, and spacious self-catering homes like Highland Peace Haven, it is one of the safest and most relaxing family destinations in the country.
Do I need a 4×4 to get to Highland Gate? No, the road from Dullstroom to the estate is fully tarred and accessible for all standard vehicles.
Book Your Dullstroom Escape Today
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