Epitome of Luxury and Comfort in the heart of Hilton
by Julia Amaral Experience 66 on Monzali, a 4-star award-winning boutique guest house, in Hilton. When traveling for business, finding luxurious yet comfortable accommodation is key. That is why 66 on Monzali, a 4-star award winning boutique guest house is the ideal choice for executives seeking a home away from home….
A Journey through the Treetops
by Julia Amaral Looking to add a dash of excitement to your Midlands Meander visit. Look no further than a canopy tour zip line at Karkloof Canopy Tour! Karkloof Canopy Tour is a thrilling two-hour activity that allows participants to traverse through the spectacular valley of the mistbelt podocarpus Karkloof…
The ANEW Hotel Hilton
by Leigh Lippert I must have driven past the ANEW Hotel Hilton a couple of times a week but had not had reason to go in since lockdown opened up. The gardens looked lovely, and certainly the outside of the Tudor Style hotel looked refreshed. Such it is with many…
Shop a Little Piece of the Midlands Meander… Online!
By Rosemary Hall Online shopping and the Midlands Meander??! You’ve got to be kidding, right? Sure, nothing beats meandering and stopping off at each artist’s studio or boutique shop, but now you can unbox some Midlands Meander happiness from afar by ordering online. It’s might be a while for some…
5 Facts About Nelson Mandela’s Influential Life
Nelson Mandela is arguably the most famous South African in the world. After a long fight with the government during the apartheid era, Mandela was the South African president to lead to country into democracy, freedom and change. If you are a history buff, or just interested in the history…
6 Tips for Planning the Perfect Winter Wedding
Are you planning a winter wedding? The Midlands Meander offers some of the most beautiful countryside wedding venues that will be the perfect addition to your cosy theme. Hosting thousands of weddings a year, we have learnt a thing or two about winter weddings. We are sharing 6 tips for…
Planning the Perfect End of Year Function
Since we are already more than halfway through the year, many companies are starting to think about their end of year function. These events are great opportunities to thank your team for a year of hard work and commitment, as well as express your gratitude to loyal clients and investors….
5 Cosy Stops for the Winter Months
With Winter in the air, your favourite outdoor activities, such as the beach and days at the dam, are out of the question. During the darker, colder month, staying home wrapped in a warm blanket is the best, however, it can be nice to occasionally get out. The Midlands Meander…
5 Food-Favourites You’ll Find in the Midlands
The Midlands Meander is littered with hidden gems holding only the tastiest meals and snacks. During your Midlands adventure, spend awhile sampling some of the cuisine made from local produce. If you are a foodie at heart, we have compiled a list of 5 must-try restaurants in the Midlands. Food-Favourite…
5 Picturesque Places to Stay Along the Midlands Meander
Are you desperate for a weekend getaway in the country? The Midland Meander boast a variety of picturesque accommodation perfect for a couples retreat or family bonding time. The options can be overwhelming so we have compiled some of the most country-styled, picturesque spots where you can stay in the…
A Meandering Valentine’s Day in the Midlands
The month of love is here! For all you lovebirds looking for something different to do this Valentine’s day, head to the Midlands for an exciting day out. Instead of the usual ‘dinner and a movie’ date night, make this year different by making a day out of; get out…
5 Things to Consider When Choosing Your 2021 Wedding Venue
If your wedding is coming up in 2021, you are likely knee-deep in the planning process. Whilst you can get away with skipping out on most aspects of the traditional wedding, one thing you can’t avoid is a wedding venue. Fortunately, the Midlands Meander holds many stunning locations that are…
5 Exciting Stops for the December Holidays
With the December holidays just around the corner, you might be looking for some exciting outings to entertain the kids. The Midlands Meander is an exciting activity that the whole family will enjoy. Take a day trip or book a few nights in the beautiful countryside accommodation and explore all…
5 Midlands Stops for Summer-Lovin’
Summer is the season of romance, and with warmer weather and longer days ahead, the Midlands Meander is a perfect getaway for you and your lover. Whether it be for the day or a weekend, there is plenty to do along the route that will guarantee a fun and memorable…
5 Educational Stops Along the Midlands Meander
The Midlands Meander attracts people from all corners of the world, who are eager to explore its many routes that offer exquisite surroundings, fun outdoor activities, historical attractions, and beautiful accommodation. Take Your Pick from Various Educational Outings In addition to providing the perfect backdrop for weddings and outdoor enthusiasts,…
Escape to the Midlands for the Day
With so many exciting activities, unique craft shops and tasty restaurants, there is no reason why you can’t pack up your loved ones and head to the breath-taking KZN Midlands. With an overwhelming number of must-see stops along the five routes, we have tailored a day trip itinerary just for…
3 Family Fun Day Outings in the KZN Midlands
We are always looking for new and exciting adventures to take with our families. Luckily, we have the stunning Midlands Meander just a stone’s throw away from KZN’s biggest towns and cities. With so many stops to explore and new things to try, we can’t recommend a Midlands Meander visit…
5 Top KZN Midlands Winter Wedding Venues
Winter weddings in the KZN midlands are beautiful. The dryness of the country terrain makes for a stunning backdrop of gold, the weather is typically perfect and the chill in the air contributes to a cosy and warm atmosphere. If you have been dreaming of a winter wedding, the KZN…
5 Facts About the KZN Midlands You Didn’t Know
With the fresh country air and miles of picturesque landscape, the Midlands Meander is a firm favourite of Kwa-Zulu Natal locals, as well as inter-provincial visitors. Whilst you might know all the best spots to shop, eat and enjoy a fun-filled family day, you may not know much about the…
5 Spots on the Midlands Meander for a Foodie Experience
All the country air inhaled on your Midlands Meander is bound to make you hungry sooner than later! Fortunately for your stomach, there are plenty of unique and quality restaurants to be found on all routes. Whether you are an avid food lover or simply appreciate a good bite on…
Site Spotlight: Introducing Hilton ANEW
With so many wonderful stops along the Midlands Meander, it can be difficult to know where exactly to start. From wedding venues to craft shops, restaurants to spas, as well as a number of hotels and guesthouses, you be spoiled for choice. 4 Fabulous Reasons to Visit the Midlands Meander…
4 Museums & Heritage Sites on the Midlands Meander
South Africa has so much beauty and history to offer. What if we told you that some of the country’s top heritage site was right outside of Durban? The Midlands Meander brags not only a variety of unique arts and crafts, stunning weekend getaway locations and fun activities but also…
9 New Things to Try in the Midlands in 2020
What if we told you that a weekend of new, exciting activities was right outside your back door? The Midlands Meander is an area unique to KwaZulu Natal that offers a variety of craft stores, restaurants, entertainment and craft experiences across the midlands county-side. Enjoy a relaxing day (or two)…
5 Family-Friendly Activities to Do in The Midlands
The fresh country air and the endless exciting stops make The Midlands Meander the ideal family day out. From delicious lunch spots to fun activities for all ages, there is something for everyone. Spend your day finding all the fun activities or take a shortcut and visit a few of…
3 Insta-Ready Photography Spots in Midlands Meander
Leave the hustle and bustle of town life behind and spend a day meandering through the countryside, enjoying the stunning scenery and exploring the hidden gems you can find along one of the many different routes. From fun activities to delicious food, unique craft stores and plenty of insta-worthy midlands…
7 Reasons to Head to the Midlands This Weekend
When it comes to finding something to do on the weekend, whether it’s for yourself or for the whole family, you may find yourself frustrated by lack of inspiration, or overwhelmed by the sheer volume of options to choose from. If either of these issues plagues you, then you’re in…
Holy Cow! Gourmet Greek is great!
The newly opened Blue Cow Deli is one of the recent innovations of the Midlands based Gourmet Greek business. You cannot miss the large blue cow on the side of the road as you drive along the Lions River road. Drive past Lona’s Pianos and the Lions River Trading Post…
Hilton Arts Festival 2016
Our brilliant artists, crafters and members braved the rainy weather to showed the public what amazing talent there is on the Midlands Meander. Have a look at our Midlands Experience – https://youtu.be/iBnDqNE5X5A
Beautiful beads at Dragonfire Beads
They have changed location and now you can buy the beautiful handmade glass beads and jewellery from Dragonfire beads along the R103. Barbara Magrath used to sell her beautiful glass work from Howick but she has recently relocated to the Tweedie T-junction at the R103. The bead shop is located…
Austin Healey Club Comes To Midlands Meander
The Austin Healey classic cars were visiting the Midlands Meander this month. Organiser Les Uppink a Durban resident had planned for the cars to see a bit of the scenic Meander before heading up to the Drakensberg. Their usual road trip was to become an Amazing Race while they were…
Amazing Antbear Lodge An Eco-Experience
An eco-friendly experience – close to the Drakensberg. This lodge is the perfect place to connect with nature and relax. This secluded guest lodge is situated on the scenic route towards the mighty Giants Castle. Built by Andrew and Conny Attwood the lodge was built according to natural and eco-friendly…
Hawklee Country House Is Country Hospitality
Belinda and Dean Lentz have created a beautiful country getaway at their B&B near Fort Nottingham in the Midlands. Both of them had dreamed of giving up the stress of city living they were sick of traffic and the rat race of working 9 to 5 jobs. They had both…
Find De-lightful Treasures At Aladdins De-light
Louise and Jan Van Niekerk moved from the Free State to the sleepy peaceful village of Nottingham Road many years ago before it became a fashionable hub of tourism. The talented pair of artists fell in love with the beauty of the lush green Midlands and felt the little hamlet…
Hillfold Pottery Guru On The Midlands Meander
Lindsay Scott’s Hillfold Pottery studio is one of those unassuming gems of the Midlands Meander. Scott was one of the original founders of the Midlands Meander and his original style of ceramics and unique salt glazing techniques have earned him a reputation as a leading South African ceramicist. He has built his…
Cafe Bloom – Bloomin Marvellous!
Distinguished by its charming decor and delicious treats and goodies, Cafe Bloom is a stop on the Midlands Meander that is well worth making. Pass the time with a leisurely breakfast or enjoy a mid-morning snack (the brownies are rumoured to be particularly tasty!). When you’ve satisfied your appetite, why…
Birds bees and the BUGS!
Some people might think they are just about fun. Wherever they go the children smile and have a ball – whether it is getting hands dirty, painting walls or planting seeds. The Midlands Meander Association Education Project (MMEP) is a fantastic organisation that does amazing things in the Midlands schools….
Fan-Tash-tic fudge – to die for
One of the nicest things about the Midlands is that it is the home of the best fudge. Tasha’s Fantastic Fudge is a home business that has grown phenomenally and become a local institution. Known for its innovation and good old fashioned flavour this sweet story of success has gone…
Magic at Millgate and the Mole
Millgate Cottage along the R103 is one of the Midlands Meander’s long standing members and the owners Jean and Ben Temkin came to the Midlands from Johannesburg and fell in love with the area. Both of them are published authors, and in the late 1990s they had spent some time…
Culamoya Chimes Songs of the wind
Lola and Frik Haupt believe the wind speaks and their wind chimes respond to it, on their Lidgetton property at the top of a small hill, the sound of musical notes float out over the countryside. It is not only the chimes that make this scenic spot a charming place…
Midlands Meander New Beginnings
Welcome to Mad about the Midlands … the blog that aims to expose you to all the magic of the Midlands. The people, the places … the events and the characters that are sometimes not seen by the casual visitor to the area. This small geographical area that is situated…
Our Mad Midlanders
When we conceived of this blog in the Midlands Meander Association office – we wanted to bring the Midlands Meander to life for you as more than just a beautiful picture postcard destination but to make you familar with the types of characters you will find in our neck of…