Walkerbouts Inn - Rhodes

Budget Getaways Review

If you’re a South African, and you haven’t been to Rhodes village, then you’ve been missing out. Lying deep in the Southern Drakensberg, in a remote region of the Eastern Cape hinterland, getting to this gorgeous part of the world may be a trek from the Mother City, but oh boy, is it worth it!

Put on the map some 30 odd years back by the nearby Tiffendal Ski Resort (now closed down), Rhodes is surrounded by nothing but mountains (often covered in snow). Laid back, charming and compact, if you’re not here to hike, bike, trail run or fly-fish, you could literally hang your car keys up and move about entirely on foot, stopping for the obligatory chat with a local or two, catching the rays on their front porch. You get the picture, it’s chill zone extreme.

The original farm, Tiltern, was set on an elevated portion of land leading down to the crystal clear waters of the Bell River. Today, Walkabouts Inn occupies that very spot and the views of the surrounding landscapes are as good as they were back in the day.

Right, now let's get down to the nitty gritty. Walkabouts is a no-nonsense, seen-it-all kind of place. The set meals in the cozy dining room have been enjoyed by patrons for decades, the pub is always jovial and busy, the staff friendly and helpful and the rooms, basic, yet comfortably furnished and spacious.

Rooms come in the form of two singles, three doubles with additional single beds and two family rooms, which are made up of a double and twin beds. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms, towels and linen, panel heaters and of course electric blankets - believe us, nights here take on near arctic conditions.

Rooms are booked on a B&B basis, but evening means and lunches can be pre booked - there isn't much else in the village, so best advice would be to eat here.

Your hosts have a wealth of knowledge on the area, from fly fishing advice to walking and cycling info and general to-do’s while out and about. There’s also a great library of guide books in the lounge area - a nice sunny spot to enjoy an afternoon read.

A short walk away in the village is a well presented tourist centre, worth a visit. A small general dealer sells basic supplies. Further afield you’ve got some great mountain passes to explore - Naude’s Nek Pass makes for a breathtaking day trip from the village, as well as a number of other quite mountain roads which are worth venturing along either by vehicle, on foot or by bike.

A far-flug yet beautiful destination to explore at your own pace and if you’re wanting comfortable and social accommodation, as authentic and “countrified” as it comes, then walk on over to Walkabouts.