Make memories in the KZN Midlands
Unlike many South African “been-there-done-that” destinations, the Midlands continuously presents us with new experiences, places we haven't visited, local dishes we haven't tried and trails we haven't explored.
The Kwazulu-Natal Midlands area is located approximately four-and-a-half hours' drive from Johannesburg and roughly an hour-and-a-half drive from Durban, both on the N3. It entails the entire region north and south of the N3 between Mooi River and Pietermaritzburg and includes Curry's Post, Nottingham Road, Lions River, Howick, Balgowan and Hilton, among others.
Geographically, the area is rich in water resources, rolling hills, pastures, farmland, waterfalls and majestic landscape scenes and forests.
What is the Midlands Meander?
The area is also famously known as, and for, the Midlands Meander which comprises inter-connected, circular, self-drive routes. These routes span from Mooi
River to Pietermarizburg and back again to Nottingham Road via a range of beautiful country roads.
The Midlands Meander was originally created by the local artisans, farms, and arts and culture industries as a way to invite their clients into their places and spaces of creation. But soon the entrepreneurial spirit of the Midlands resulted in the establishment of many restaurants, coffee roasteries, cafés, spas, wedding venues and accommodation.
A range of outdoor activities further compliment the Meander's offering and it is not entirely unimaginable that one could be kept busy for days on end.
One reason why we continuously gravitate back here is the amazing nature trails for mountain biking, trail running and hiking that are suited for all fitness and bravery levels.
The Karkloof trails remain our personal favourite as it provides a
number of routes over varying distances. It crisscrosses open fields, dense forests, challenging rocky outcrop and downhill sections with berms, while passing some of the most spectacular views of the kloof and the magnificent Karkloof Falls. After a tough morning of mountain biking and trail running, you can indulge in a traditional baked pie and chips, accompanied by a locally brewed beer at the Rawdons Hotel and Brewery.
The Midlands is also host to sporting events such as the Nelson Mandela Triathlon and Marathon in August, the Midmar Mile in February and the Karkloof 100 miler, among others. Other outdoor activities include the Karkloof Canopy Tours, fly fishing and animal encounters at places like the African Bird Sanctuary and Butterflies for Africa.
Once you've satisfied your inner nature child, many other relaxing excursions await along the Meander including wineries, restaurants, art galleries, cheese tasting, shoe making, pottery, beer tasting, leather works and even a hammock showroom.
Travelling with young ones?
Not to worry! With Epic Go Carts Midlands and the Piggly Wiggly's ample running and play space, they are sure to be entertained
for hours.The Midlands Meander is also an excellent choice for weddings – not only because of the area's sheer beauty, but also due to its generous offerings of different styles of wedding venues and onsite accommodation.
Where to stay
Accommodation in the Midlands is plentiful and we don't think there are any ‘preferred' areas. No matter where you stay, you will likely be within a short drive of some form of activity or entertainment.
We stayed at Brahman Hills - a luxury, countryside venue with a modern twist. It includes an onsite day spa and fine cuisine at the 89 Copper Restaurant, set in an almost steampunk-like wine cellar. Our abode was on the neighbouring Springholm farm (an extension of Brahman Hills) – a mere 15-minute drive away.
Aside from Brahman Hills, there are a number of other guest farms, self-catering units, bed and breakfasts and hotels to choose from in the area.
Is it worth the drive?
The Midlands has a magical draw to it and although there are many other fantastic destinations in South Africa, also offering a wide range of experiences to diverse audiences, there are some unmatchable aspects to it.The fact that the Midlands never really feels congested (even when the tourists invade smaller towns over the holidays) further aids this experience.This is largely attributed to the fact that the Midlands comprises many different smaller areas.