6 South African towns that resemble the Austrian Lake District

The Austrian Lake District, known for its emerald lakes, Alpine peaks, charming villages, and crisp mountain air, may feel like a distant escape.

But South Africa, with its own dramatic landscapes and tucked-away hamlets, offers a few spots that closely resemble it. If you’re longing for Austria’s charm without leaving the Southern Hemisphere, these six South African towns bring that lakeside magic to life, mountains, reflections, and all.

1. Clarens, Free State, South Africa

Clarens sits at the base of the Maluti Mountains and offers postcard-perfect views that resemble a European village. The afternoon sun lights up its sandstone cliffs, while crisp mountain air flows through neat streets lined with art galleries, coffee shops, and alpine-style cottages. In autumn, Clarens transforms into a golden wonderland that easily rivals the beauty of a European fall.

Feels like: Hallstatt on a dry day – minus the lake but packed with storybook charm.

2. Haenertsburg, Limpopo

Haenertsburg sits on the edge of the Wolkberg Mountains, delivering misty mornings, lush forests, and winding mountain roads that could easily belong in Austria’s Salzkammergut region. The nearby Ebenezer Dam adds a scenic water feature, while the pine-covered hills and cool climate give the town a clear alpine feel.

Feels like: A lakeside Austrian village in early spring – green, quiet, and crisp.

Take a look here: #haenertsburg

3. Dullstroom, Mpumalanga

This high-altitude town is South Africa’s fly-fishing capital, surrounded by trout dams, rolling hills, and stone lodges. The cool climate, European-style pubs, and misty mornings make it easy to forget you’re in Africa. Its pace is slow, the views are serene, and it’s one of the few places where you can drink glühwein by a fireplace without irony.

Feels like: A mountain retreat near Wolfgangsee – complete with chilled wine and wool sweaters.

4. Hogsback, Eastern Cape, South Africa

Tucked away in the Amathole Mountains, Hogsback blends Tolkien-esque forests with Alpine vibes. Waterfalls, rivers, and dense greenery mirror the natural beauty of the Austrian Lake District. The surrounding forests give it an enchanted feel, and the cottages with wood-burning stoves amp up the cosy factor.

Feels like: An Austrian woodland village that fell into a fantasy novel.

Take a look here: #hogsbacksouthafrica

5. Swellendam, Western Cape

While not mountainous in the same way, Swellendam sits snug between the Langeberg Mountains and the Breede River. The whitewashed Cape Dutch architecture, rolling farmland, and quiet rhythm of life echo Austria’s rural lakeside towns. Hike in the Marloth Nature Reserve and you’ll see why it earns its place on this list.

Feels like: A pastoral stretch near Attersee – serene, green, and beautifully preserved.

6. Sabie, Mpumalanga, South Africa

Surrounded by waterfalls, forests, and panoramic viewpoints, Sabie is one of Mpumalanga’s gems. The nearby Mac Mac Falls and the winding Long Tom Pass offer landscapes that flirt with Alpine drama. The scenery is lush and layered, and the town’s cool climate adds to the European illusion.

Feels like: A lakeside valley town with the drama turned up – think mountains, mist, and the rush of falling water.

Take a look here: #sabiempumalanga