Our History
Founded in 1974 by Wimcar and Milly Cilliers, Millys began as a humble dream on the open Highveld. When Wimcar built his first trout farm, marketing trout was a challenge few dared to take on. But with determination – and a touch of ingenuity – he set up a small wooden roadside stall on the N4 near Machadodorp, equipped with nothing more than a fridge and faith in a good idea. That December, the first fresh trout was sold to passing travellers, and a legacy was born.
As word spread, Millys thrived under the care and commitment of the Cilliers family, Wimcar, Milly, their children Unice-Ann and Diekie, and their loyal team. In 1979, the family purchased the land that Millys still calls home. An old building became a trout processing facility, and the stall evolved into the Millys Country Trout Stall, serving not only trout but also coffee, homemade jams, and the warmth of genuine hospitality.
Growth & Expansion
Behind the counter, Granny Unice, Millys mother, became a beloved figure, crafting jams, jellies, and her famous Mediterranean chutney that drew travellers from far and wide. She lovingly served customers for many years until her passing in 2013 at the age of 94.
The 1980s marked a new era. After the construction of the dam in 1983, the family’s vision expanded, they applied for stopover rights to create a filling station, restaurant, and resort. In 1986, those rights were granted, and by 1997, the Millys that generations of travellers know and love had come to life.
Tragedy struck in June 2011 when a fire destroyed the restaurant and adjoining buildings. Yet, true to their spirit, the Cilliers family rebuilt Millys from the ashes. By June 2012, the doors reopened. Sadly, Milly Cilliers passed away just two weeks after the reopening, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, grace, and determination.
From freshly baked goods and handcrafted trout to unforgettable meals shared beside the dam, Millys remains a beloved destination – the heart of the trout capital of Mpumalanga.
