What is Pilgrims Rest known for?

Pilgrim’s Rest (Afrikaans: Pelgrimsrus) is a small museum town in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa which is protected as a provincial heritage site. It was the second of the Transvaal gold fields, attracting a rush of prospectors in 1873, soon after the MacMac diggings started some 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) away.

Is there still gold in Pilgrims Rest?

Pilgrim’s Rest has in recent times been known for the annual gold-panning championships and an economy completely reliant on tourism because of the town’s mining history and heritage, while in fact it still harbours abundant gold ore reserves in an area covering 620km2.

What happened to Pilgrims Rest?

For many years Pilgrims Rest used to be a popular tourist destination in Mpumalanga. But now, it has turned into a ghost town, rundown and neglected. Many shops have closed down, mainly because government hasn’t renewed lease agreements for businesses in the area.

What was discovered at Pilgrims Rest?

alluvial gold
Pilgrim’s Rest was a gold mining camp way back in the 1870s and was founded because of the discovery of alluvial gold in the valley. The pilgrims who came to rest here were the gold prospectors and their spirit echoed off the hillsides.

Where to stay in Mpumalanga for pilgrims rest?

Pilgrims Rest Accommodation Where: Crystal Springs Mountain Lodge, almost due west of Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga Level: moderate Type of route: various, mostly dirt roads and 4X4 Overnight?

Is the village of Pilgrim’s Rest a tourist attraction?

Pilgrim’s Rest is situated on the magnificent Panorama Route of the Mpumalanga province. The entire village is a tourist attraction, and was declared a National Monument in 1986. Today, Pilgrim’s Rest is a living monument to the feverish gold rush days of the late 1800s.

What are some of the attractions in Mpumalanga?

Other than our on-site facilities guests are able to enjoy a range of outdoor experiences in and around White River. We are blessed with some of the most scenic sights in South Africa including the Blyde River Canyon and Mpumalanga Panorama which offers attractions such as God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes to mention just a few.

What to do near Pilgrims Rest, Graskop?

2-Day Panorama Route Africa’s Grand Canyon to/from Kruger Safari. Which places are best for gift & speciality shops near Pilgrims Rest? What are the most popular things to do near Pilgrims Rest?