Seven small towns to escape the big city
South Africa has countless hidden gems to escape to when city life gets a bit too much...
The rush of big city living can take its toll on even the strongest of us.
Many South Africans flock to major cities, drawn by the hustle, the job opportunities, and the dream of climbing the corporate ladder.
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But where can you go when it all gets a little overwhelming?
According to The South African, there are plenty of underrated small towns that offer a peaceful break or even a fresh start.
Here’s a look at seven small towns to escape the big city:
1. Rosendal, Free State
Rosendal is one of those towns where, if you blink, you'll miss it. About 40 minutes from Ficksburg, it's full of charm, with sandstone houses, dusty roads, and a quiet rhythm that draws artists and creatives looking for peace (and a bit of magic). There’s not much to do, and that’s the point.
2. Haenertsburg, Limpopo
Tucked into the Magoebaskloof mountains, Haenertsburg is all misty forests, winding trails, and fresh mountain air. It’s small but packed with charm. Perfect for hiking, biking, or just curling up by a fireplace with something warm in hand.
3. Bathurst, Eastern Cape
Just a short drive from the coast, Bathurst is rich in 1820 Settler history and local legends. It’s got quirky shops, colourful locals, and of course, a massive pineapple. If your road trips need a bit of weird and wonderful, this is your place.
The Big Pineapple is a 16.7m tall pineapple-shaped building in Bathurst, South Africa, that has three floors. The first floor is a gift shop where you can buy pineapples, various pineapple food items, and all sorts of pineapple-themed souvenirs. pic.twitter.com/8yD2lErIQs
— Afrika Stories (@Afrika_Stories) August 19, 2021
4. Matjiesfontein, Western Cape
With just one street, vintage hotels, a red bus, and a ghost or two, Matjiesfontein offers an unforgettable old-school vibe. It’s like stepping into a vintage postcard, with a Karoo sunset to top it off.
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5. Williston, Northern Cape
Set deep in the Karoo, Williston is all open roads, ancient stories, and big skies that make you feel small in the best way. You’ll find fossils underfoot, friendly locals with tales to tell, and a kind of silence the city just can’t compete with.
6. Nieuwoudtville, Northern Cape
When flower season hits, Nieuwoudtville explodes in colour. The rest of the year, it’s quiet, starlit, and criminally underrated. Off the beaten path and perfect for those craving open space and zero traffic.
7. Kaapschehoop, Mpumalanga
High in the hills above Nelspruit, Kaapschehoop is a misty village with wild horses and cobbled charm. It’s often called a "breathe deep, stay longer" kind of place, and once you’re there, you’ll see why.
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Image: Hiking South Africa