There is a first time for everything, and if a stay at Doornkop Fish & Wildlife Reserve is on your calendar, you have plenty to look forward to.
Doornkop is the kind of destination where the pace naturally slows, mornings begin with birdsong and deciding what to do with your day might be the biggest decision you need to make.
If you’re wondering what to expect, here are a few things worth knowing before you arrive.
The journey is part of the experience
Doornkop feels wonderfully removed from the city, and that sense of escape starts before you even arrive.
The final 9km of the journey is along a gravel road. It is generally kept in very good condition, although heavy rain can affect road conditions, so it is worth checking with Reception before travelling if the weather has been particularly wet. Once you arrive, check-in is from 16:00 and you will need your reservation confirmation.
Settle into your home in the wilderness
Doornkop is all about comfortable self-catering stays surrounded by nature.
The spacious chalets are ideal for families and groups, with fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas and outdoor spaces where you can make the most of the scenery. Cosy fireplaces are another welcome feature, particularly when the Mpumalanga evenings turn chilly. Because the accommodation is self-catering, it is a good idea to plan your groceries before arriving. There is, however, an on-site Tuck Shop for snacks, essentials, holiday treats and gifts.
One other useful thing to know before packing your bags: Doornkop is a cashless resort, so remember to bring your bank card.
Prepare to switch off
One of the pleasures of a Doornkop getaway is the opportunity to spend less time looking at screens and more time looking at what’s around you. Instead, you can spend your time looking across rolling hills, watching wildlife, walking beside rivers or sitting quietly next to one of the dams.
Doornkop also maintains its peaceful atmosphere by asking guests to avoid loud noise and music. Give it a day and you may be surprised by how little you miss your usual notifications.
You don’t have to be an angler to love Doornkop
Fly-fishing is a big part of the Doornkop experience, with eight well-stocked trout dams attracting everyone from experienced anglers to those trying it for the first time.
The current fishing permit is R300 and is valid for seven days, while the on-site Fly Shop stocks essential equipment and rods are available for hire. The Swartspruit and nearby Komati River are also home to indigenous yellowfish, with catch-and-release practices helping to protect these sensitive fish populations.
Not interested in fishing? You definitely won’t run out of things to do.
Keep your eyes open for wildlife
Doornkop covers approximately 2,000 hectares of wilderness, so wildlife is very much part of the experience. Zebra, wildebeest and various antelope species are among the animals you may encounter, while bird enthusiasts should keep an eye out for everything from African Fish Eagles to kingfishers.
Guests can also explore on a self-drive game-viewing adventure. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for this, so keep that in mind if exploring the reserve by car is high on your holiday list.
There is plenty to keep you busy
A Doornkop getaway can be as active or as relaxed as you want it to be.
Along with hiking and fly-fishing, there is mountain biking, 4×4 exploring, horse riding, tennis and swimming. The Games Room offers pool, foosball and table tennis, while scenic lookout points are ideal for a leisurely picnic.
That variety makes Doornkop particularly well suited to groups and families. One person can head off with a fishing rod, another can tackle a hiking trail and someone else can happily settle somewhere scenic with a book. Nobody needs to follow the same holiday itinerary.
Leave some room in your plans
It can be tempting to arrive with every hour of your getaway planned. Don’t.
Choose a few things you definitely want to experience, but leave enough time to discover Doornkop at your own pace. Doornkop isn’t really about ticking attractions off a list. It is about having the space and time to enjoy where you are.
A few things to remember before you leave home
Pack for the outdoors and remember that temperatures can change considerably between day and evening. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hats and warm layers are always useful.
If you plan to braai, wood, charcoal, firelighters and matches are available on-site, so forgetting something doesn’t necessarily mean making another trip into town.
Most importantly, arrive ready to slow down. Your first stay might just start a new tradition.
Ready to experience Doornkop for yourself?
Book now: https://bit.ly/bookdoornkop