Tourists and locals looking for a gourmet eating experience in the Lowveld need search no longer, with the launch of the Lowveld Gourmet Route, a project by the region’s Big 5 restaurants in partnership with Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Board.

"We are proud to be associated with this important initiative in which the Gourmet Route showcases the diverse offerings this province has to give, and looking ahead we are sure it will be a long and successful endeavour that can only lead to the growth and sustainability of our culture rich province," says Kholofelo Khwinana of Mpumalanga Tourism & Parks Agency.

Included in the Route are Summerfields Kitchen near Hazyview, Salt and Oliver’s in the White River area and Orange and 10 On Russel in Nelspruit.

While the Lowveld is well known for its natural beauty and wildlife encounters, the restaurants involved believe the Lowveld Gourmet Route will enhance the region’s travel experience.

"All of us believe that the culinary experience is as important to the Lowveld as is sight-seeing, culture and wildlife — for both traveller and local alike," says Andre Van Heerden of Summerfields where the Lowveld Gourmet Route will be kicked off on 1 August with a Food and Wine pairing.

At Summerfields near Hazyview, executive chef Lienkie Erasmus has fashioned an innovative menu embracing fresh, local produce to construct a style she calls "country-chic, rustic gastronomy".

In nearby White River, Salt Restaurant focuses on comfort fusion food, paired with ambience and personal attention while, along with a gourmet a la carte menu and Austrian “gemutlichkeit”, owner - run restaurant Oliver’s also offers fun fondue-style dining in its romantic wine-cellar. With uninterrupted views over-looking Nelspruit and warm, sophisticated interiors, Orange presents classic French with a contemporary twist by executive chef GT Lundie while, set in an historic building off Nelspruit’s CBD, 10 On Russel presents culinary magic in the form of nouvelle cuisine from owner-executive chef Malcolm Burroughs.