6 South African small towns that feel like a step back in time

SA’s small towns offer more than just picturesque landscapes – they’re a portal to the past. Here are six old-timey small towns to visit…

An old barn in Pilgrim's Rest, Mpumalanga. Image: canva

South Africa is a country rich in history, incredible scenery and fascinating culture. While major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg showcase modernity, there are several charming small towns where time seems to stand still.

These towns, with their well-preserved architecture, traditional ways of life, and nostalgic charm, offer visitors a unique glimpse into the past. Here are six South African small towns that feel like a step back in time.

1. Matjiesfontein, Western Cape

Railway station in Matjiesfontein, Western Cape. Image: canva

A visit to Matjiesfontein is like stepping straight into the Victorian era. Established in the late 1800s, this tiny railway town boasts beautifully preserved buildings, an old-world atmosphere, and a fascinating history.

The Lord Milner Hotel, with its grand colonial design, still welcomes guests, and the town’s transport museum showcases vintage cars and steam locomotives. At sunset, visitors can enjoy a ride on an old red London bus while being entertained by local stories and music.

2. Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga

Old house in Pilgrim’s Rest. Image: canva

Once a booming gold rush town in the 1870s, Pilgrim’s Rest remains frozen in time. The entire town is a national monument, with original corrugated iron buildings, dusty streets, and historical landmarks that transport visitors to the gold mining days. Visitors can pan for gold, explore the Royal Hotel, or take a ghost tour to hear tales of fortune seekers who never left.

3. Prince Albert, Western Cape

Nestled at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains, Prince Albert is a Karoo gem that feels untouched by time. The town’s well-preserved Cape Dutch and Victorian buildings, combined with its slow-paced lifestyle, create an atmosphere of old-world charm. Visitors can explore its historic water furrows, visit the Fransie Pienaar Museum, or enjoy traditional Karoo hospitality at a local guesthouse.

4. Bethulie, Free State

Bethulie is a small town with a deep historical significance, particularly related to the Anglo-Boer War. The town is home to one of the largest concentration camp sites from the war, as well as the iconic Royal Hotel, South Africa’s oldest surviving hotel. Bethulie’s streets, old bridges, and heritage sites tell stories of a time long past, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

5. Wakkerstroom, Mpumalanga

With its rolling grasslands, charming cottages, and a tranquil, old-fashioned atmosphere, Wakkerstroom feels like a world away from modern life. This small town is known for its historic buildings, dating back to the 1800s, as well as its strong farming traditions. Wakkerstroom is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

6. Cradock, Eastern Cape

Cradock is a historic town that has retained much of its 19th-century charm. Its beautifully restored Victorian and Karoo-style buildings, combined with its rich history of the Anglo-Boer War and early settlers, make it a fascinating place to explore. The town is famous for its traditional Karoo lamb dishes, the Great Fish River Museum, and the historic Tuishuise & Victoria Manor, which transports visitors back to colonial times.