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The new Renault Duster proved to be perfect wheels for Melinda Ferguson, who embarked on a road trip to the legendary Magoebaskloof Hotel in Limpopo
TRAVEL TORQUE
Renault Duster 1.5 dCi Dynamique EDC 4x2
Price: R316 900
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You might be right if you think all I ever do is swan off on glorious road trips. The past two months have been jam-packed with travel to the magnificent provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo. One of my favourite spots in this beautiful country of ours is the Magoebaskloof region with its otherworldly mists, luscious forests and heart-pounding views. As all good road-trippers know, sweet destinations need good wheels.
The new Renault Duster recently revved up to the challenge as my partner and I set our sat nav for the Magoebaskloof Hotel, between Polokwane and Tzaneen in the Haenertsburg region of Limpopo.
I’ve been a fan of the Duster since it first launched locally in 2013 and it’s been embraced in an almost cult-like fashion, with more than 2 million units sold worldwide.
Much has been done to the French manufacturer’s latest rugged star to add to its looks, proportions and modernity. There’s a sexy new grille, LED daytime running lights,
17-inch alloys, new-look rear lights and wider rear scratch-resistant skid plates, giving the Duster an even tougher look.
But it’s inside where the real changes impress. The overall feel is more luxurious and a much-needed new dashboard takes centre stage, incorporating an easy-to-manage higher-mounted infotainment screen. There’s also a handy multiview camera, blind-spot warning, automatic climate control and keyless entry. For the road trip, I drove the 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine automatic, with an adequate 85kW of power and impressive 260Nm of torque. (The 1.6-litre petrol derivative has the same power and 156Nm of torque.)
As we ventured off, choosing hard-core dirt roads littered with rocks and slippery gravel, the Duster showed its worth. With its impressive 210mm ground clearance, a praiseworthy gearbox and chassis, potholes and unnavigable roads were a breeze.
Tired, dusty and in need of a long, hot bath, the Magoebaskloof Hotel appeared through the mist like water to two parched sailors.
Built back in 1937 by Archie and Eileen Rankin, the hotel has managed to retain its yesteryear feel, but still offers all modern conveniences, including Wi-Fi. The hotel has to be in one of the most magnificent spots in South Africa, with panoramic views of Duiwelskloof and Modjadji. The property is massive and offers access to a number of walks for outdoor adventurers.
There’s also the quaint Phoenix and Fireman Pub with memorabilia from the 1930s, and photographs of the famous fire that started in the kitchen, destroying much of the hotel in 2004. General manager Natie Ferreira regaled me with tales of how it was rebuilt to its former glory within six months by the staff of the hotel.
Our meals from a buffet and the à la carte menu in the Tlou Restaurant were hearty and unpretentious, and the steaks were mouthwatering. I loved the tables close to the fireplace as the nights were pretty chilly.
Guests with kids will enjoy lounging around the pool, and baby-sitting services are available if the folks go off fishing, mountain biking or for a spoil in the on-site spa.
After all this road-tripping, it was great to kick back in our business class seats courtesy of British Airways and head for home in Cape Town. Watch out for the 4x4 Duster early next year. I’m already planning our next trip.
. Ferguson was hosted by Magoebaskloof Hotel. For more info, go to orionhotels.co.za
. Flights were courtesy of British Airways: go to britishairways.com
