Walkersons Hotel & Spa, the ideal countryside escape

It's give or take a 3-hour drive from Joburg and Pretoria, the perfect distance for a weekend getaway, but plenty to do if you're in need of an extended staycation.

Source: Walkersons Hotel & Spa

Whisked off in the super spacious comfort of a sponsored Ford Tourneo, we made our way to the 5-star Walkersons Hotel & Spa in Mpumalanga, a stone's throw from Dullstroom central. The 800-hectare Walkersons is just off the R540, tucked away in a secluded valley, surrounded by rolling countryside hills.

Nature is so abundant here, it's easy to let go of any pent-up stress just by taking in a sip of the elixir-esque fresh air.

Source: Walkersons Hotel & Spa

True to its roots

Built in 1993, Walkersons was originally designed to embody Scottish country manor charm and, from the curious little antiques to the artwork that adorns the walls, it remains true to its roots, while its natural facade blends effortlessly into the landscape.

If you're fortunate enough to secure one of the 25 lakeside suites, you'll find yourself lured out onto the verandah both mornings and evenings, coffee or sherry in hand, absorbed by the peace and serenity.

Source: Walkersons Hotel & Spa

Walkersons is the perfect spot to embrace the great outdoors. With winding hiking paths all around the estate, you can choose to either wander about on a leisurely stroll or get your endorphin fix on a trail run. Littered with 14 dams and lakes fed by the Lunskliprivier, there are ample rest spots from which to admire the view.

It's also a great location to try your hand at fly-fishing, with the dams plentifully stocked with Rainbow Trout who spontaneously leap out the water teasingly. Complete novices, we had a go at it and while none of us managed to land a catch, it was good fun nonetheless.

Source: Walkersons Hotel & Spa

A sanctuary within a sanctuary

If the art of fly-fishing's not for you, there's also a horse-riding facility run separately from Walkersons but within the estate, offering a leisurely means to experience the valley.

If you really want to treat yourself though, head to the spa, ask for a hot stone massage, and let the masseuse work her magic. The spa is a sanctuary within a sanctuary and, along with the stunning surroundings, placed top of the highlights reel for me.

Source: Walkersons Hotel & Spa

Source: Walkersons Hotel & Spa

On the menu at Walkersons is tasty, wholesome country cuisine. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Terrace and take in more of the view from the verandah or opt to dine out here while gazing at the stars. Dinner at The Flying Scotsman, however, is just as special, offering an intimate space that's great for fire-side storytelling and cosying up, I imagine, on a chilly winter's night.

For me, though, the very best way to experience the essence of Walkersons is to pair one of their specially prepared picnic hampers with a spot riverside. Delicious food enjoyed in peaceful solitude out in nature is really hard to beat, and with a view that I certainly could not seem to tire off, Walkersons makes for the ideal countryside escape.

Source: Riana de Lange/Rapport

For more info, go to www.walkersons.co.za.

*Sindy Peters was a guest of Walkersons Hotel & Spa.