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Home » Three must-do things in Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga

Three must-do things in Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga

Want to explore beautiful Pilgrim’s Rest but not sure what to get up to? Here are three things you can’t miss…

pilgrim's rest
Looking for things to do in pilgrim's Rest? Image: canva

Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery of Mpumalanga, Pilgrim’s Rest exudes charm, mystery, and adventure at every turn. Whether you’re a history buff, a treasure hunter, or simply a lover of unique experiences, here are three cool things to do in Pilgrim’s Rest…

1. Relive the Gold Rush at historic sites

Wander through the cobbled streets and feel the whispers of the past as you explore Pilgrim’s Rest’s carefully preserved buildings. Every corner of this living museum tells a tale of fortune, hardship, and the rush for gold that shaped this town in the late 1800s.

Must-see highlights:

  • Alanglade House Museum: Peek inside the opulent home of a former mine manager, filled with artifacts that reveal the life of the town’s elite.
  • The Royal Hotel: Sip a drink in its vintage bar, surrounded by authentic period décor.
  • The Diggings Museum: Step into the dusty shoes of early prospectors and see how they struck gold.

2. Strike gold with gold panning

Who hasn’t dreamed of striking it rich? Channel your inner prospector by trying your hand at gold panning, one of Pilgrim’s Rest’s most iconic experiences. This isn’t just an activity; it’s a thrilling dive into the past where you can live the gold rush spirit firsthand.

  • Why it’s fun: Feel the thrill as you sift through gravel, searching for glimmers of gold dust. If you’re lucky, you might even keep what you find!
  • Where to try it: Visit the official gold panning site, where experts guide you in traditional techniques.

3. Take a ghost tour through the haunted streets

For thrill-seekers, Pilgrim’s Rest offers an eerie adventure with its famous ghost tours. With its rich history and old-world charm, the town is filled with stories of restless spirits and unexplained phenomena.

  • What to expect: As night falls, embark on a guided tour through the dimly lit streets and hear chilling tales of miners, outlaws, and mysterious disappearances.
  • Why it’s unique: Pilgrim’s Rest’s age and authenticity make it the perfect setting for spine-tingling ghost stories, offering a mix of history and the supernatural!