Some of the most beautiful South African towns are the ones that rarely make the travel lists.
They don’t have airports or big resorts.
What they do have is slow mornings, friendly locals and scenery that stops you in your tracks.
And most of them are only a few hours’ drive from a major city.
If you’re looking for a summer weekend getaway that’s a little off the beaten track, these eight small towns are worth adding to your list.
PATERNOSTER, WESTERN CAPE
Paternoster is a fishing village on the West Coast, about two hours’ drive north of Cape Town.
It’s known for its whitewashed fishermen’s cottages, white beaches and fresh seafood.
Things to do: Walk along the beach, watch the fishing boats come in, and visit Cape Columbine Nature Reserve.
Its lighthouse, built in 1936, was the last manned lighthouse to be built in South Africa, and it’s still manned today.
Where to stay: Guesthouses, self-catering cottages and beachfront rentals.
Discover Paternoster, a hidden gem on South Africa’s West Coast, just 90 mins from Cape Town. 🚗🇿🇦💎
— South African Tourism (@southafricauk) April 14, 2025
With white-washed cottages, peaceful vibes, and unspoilt beaches, it’s the perfect getaway.
PLUS, don’t miss Wolfgat – once voted 'Best Restaurant in the World'! 🍴 pic.twitter.com/AJv5CfMhOQ
GREYTON, WESTERN CAPE
Greyton sits at the foot of the Riviersonderend Mountains in the Overberg, about two hours from Cape Town.
Its oak-lined streets and historic cottages make it feel like a step back in time.
Things to do: Browse the local markets, enjoy a long country lunch, or hike the Boesmanskloof Trail, which links Greyton with the town of McGregor.
Where to stay: Country guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering cottages.
Greyton, Western Cape, South Africa. 📸 André Nel. pic.twitter.com/eQGTY4cnuu
— Carl.🇿🇦 (@Carl_CE50) July 24, 2023
PRINCE ALBERT, WESTERN CAPE
Prince Albert lies in the Great Karoo, at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains.
It’s famous for its olives, figs and dramatic mountain scenery.
Things to do: Drive the spectacular Swartberg Pass, explore the town’s galleries and food spots, and enjoy the Karoo’s clear night skies.
Where to stay: Historic guesthouses, farm stays and self-catering cottages.
Tip: The Karoo gets very hot in summer, so plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings.
Prince Albert, Western Cape pic.twitter.com/5MLuVN3t1f
— Cape International (@capeinternation) September 1, 2025
NIEU-BETHESDA, EASTERN CAPE
Nieu-Bethesda is a tiny Karoo village near Graaff-Reinet, with gravel roads and a quirky, creative spirit.
Things to do: Visit The Owl House, the extraordinary home and sculpture garden created by artist Helen Martins. You can also see ancient fossils at the town’s fossil centre, and stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country.
Where to stay: Small guesthouses, cottages and B&Bs.
#LATRoadTrip Update 6: A sneaky 30 second drone clip of Compassberg, which is the mountain peak of the Sneeuberge range in South Africa. Just before I left Nieu-Bethesda, I stopped to capture this. What you're about to watch is 3 x 10 clips put together from different angles. How… pic.twitter.com/Z8y8APEM4T
— Mark Sham (@MarkSham) September 22, 2023
HOGSBACK, EASTERN CAPE
Hogsback is a misty mountain village in the Amathole Mountains, surrounded by forests and waterfalls.
Local legend says it inspired the forests in JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, though that has never been proven.
Things to do: Hike the forest trails, chase waterfalls, and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Where to stay: Forest cabins, guesthouses and backpackers’ lodges.
😊"We're not sure we'd get much sleep if this was our Sunday night view!" Would you? 🌌 ✨The Milky Way rising above the Amatola Mountain Range at Hogsback in the Eastern Cape province, superbly captured by IG @stuart_gillmer 🌠#meetSouthAfricaLATER 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/vyZVcfcrAd
— South African Tourism (@southafricauk) September 6, 2020
PARYS, FREE STATE
Parys sits on the banks of the Vaal River, about an hour and a half’s drive south of Johannesburg.
It’s close to the Vredefort Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the largest and oldest known meteorite impact structure on Earth, created more than 2 billion years ago.
Things to do: Go river rafting or tubing on the Vaal, browse the antique shops, and explore the Vredefort Dome.
Where to stay: Riverside lodges, guesthouses and campsites.
Pont de Val in Parys Free State is a hotel, spa and restaurant. They are opening a wine farm this year💃🏿 🍷 🍇 #TravelChatSA pic.twitter.com/zK3Z6ikWft
— Farirai Sanyika (@GophariTravel) March 6, 2019
DULLSTROOM, MPUMALANGA
Dullstroom is one of the highest towns in South Africa, which keeps it cool even in summer.
It’s a popular escape for Gauteng residents, about three hours’ drive from Johannesburg.
Things to do: Try fly-fishing in the local dams, browse the craft shops, and stop for a hearty meal.
Where to stay: Country cottages, guest farms and lodges.
Ready to explore South Africa’s quieter side? 😌🇿🇦 Welcome to Dullstroom, Mpumalanga – a real gem, just a few hours from Johannesburg, this highland village is all rolling hills, trout-filled streams, and cosy countryside charm. 🐟🔥
— South African Tourism (@southafricauk) May 23, 2025
🎥 Video by @altalina pic.twitter.com/F9K9gLPbhZ
HAENERTSBURG, LIMPOPO
Haenertsburg is a peaceful mountain village in the Magoebaskloof area, surrounded by forests and plantations.
Things to do: Hike the forest trails, visit the nearby dams and waterfalls, and explore the scenic Magoebaskloof Pass.
Where to stay: Forest cottages, guest farms and campsites.
Glenogle Farm
— AfrikaBoroa (@BonaAfrika) September 19, 2023
Haenertsburg, Limpopo pic.twitter.com/49z0rMDYJP
TIPS FOR YOUR SUMMER WEEKEND GETAWAY
- Book early, since small towns have limited accommodation, especially over the December holidays.
- Check road conditions before you go, since some towns, such as Nieu-Bethesda, are reached on gravel roads.
- Support local businesses, from farm stalls to craft shops, since tourism keeps many small towns going.
I love that South Africa has so many small towns waiting to be explored. We really have it all.
You don’t always need a plane ticket for a proper break. Sometimes, a few hours on the road and a quiet village are all it takes.
My advice? Pick one, book early and switch off your phone for the weekend.
WHICH SMALL SOUTH AFRICAN TOWN IS YOUR FAVOURITE GETAWAY?
Let us know in the comments below…