4 top Instagrammable spots in White River – and how to get the best shot at each
Many travellers drive pass White River on their way to the Kruger National Park and only on occasion stop to wander. A mistake that many have realised! The town of White River rewards its visitors with its welcoming village feel and vibrant arts community.
Jed Barendse, junior content creator at ANEW Hotels & Resorts, shares her four favourite Instagrammable spots in and around White River which will make you want to linger longer in this vibrant community.
The Plantsman Eatery
A few minutes outside White River, The Plantsman Eatery & Bakery has earned a devoted following. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, it is a genuinely pretty spot with plenty of character to point a camera at. The food is fresh, the bakes come straight from their own bakery, and your four-legged family is welcome, too.
Jed’s top tip: Explore the rose garden and the orchard before you sit down. Shoot early – the morning light in the Lowveld is something else entirely – and a breakfast table surrounded by greenery with that quality of light needs very little else going for it.
The White River Gallery
On the R40 at Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre, the White River Gallery presents contemporary fine art originating from Mpumalanga and other talented South African artists. The gallery is also one of the most architecturally interesting buildings in White River. The stylish rustic building with its corrugated metal exterior and mature trees framing the structure absolutely deserves a space on your Instagram feed.
Jed’s top tip: Start outside. The corrugated metal exterior framed by mature trees and open glass frontage is striking and completely unique. Do check the gallery’s photography policy before shooting inside, but the exterior alone is worth the stop.
Gin & Co
Gin & Co – also located at Casterbridge – is a micro-distillery and one of the prettiest spaces in White River, whether or not you are a gin enthusiast. There is something beautifully alchemical about the space, with an old-world feel, yet entirely modern, too. Copper pendant lights, luxurious velvet couches, patterned tiles and dark steel shelving lined with small-batch bottles offer endless photo opportunities.
Jed’s top tip: The bottles and interior décor are the main event. Position yourself so they sit between you and a light source, either a window or the bar lighting. If you are doing a tasting, photograph the glass before you drink it. The clarity of a well-made gin against natural light makes for a beautiful shot.
ANEW Resort White River Mbombela
The restaurant at ANEW Resort White River Mbombela offers a warm, contemporary indoor setting for striking photographs. Earthy textures, woven pendant lighting, terracotta-toned banquettes, lush indoor greenery and generous natural light create a relaxed backdrop that photographs beautifully – whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, coffee or a leisurely lunch.
Jed’s top tip: The large windows flood the restaurant with natural light during the day, making it ideal for bright, airy photos. Start with a wide shot to capture the character of the space, then move to the bar area where the timber slats and warm lighting create a striking composition.
