MIDLANDS MEANDER GUIDE - SOUTH AFRICAN SMALL TOWNS TRAVEL GUIDE

I started the South Africa Small Towns Holiday Guide Series as a way to show off the best small town getaways in SA. Too often people focus on the big cities for holidays and don't take advantage of the amazing small towns. 

I've discovered some hidden gems all around the country, all near major cities, which make them perfect for day trips or long weekend getaways. 

To start off the series I have a Midlands Meander Travel Guide, Hartebeespoort Travel Guide and KZN South Coast Travel Guide. Next on the agenda is a Stellenbosch Travel Guide and Clarens Travel Guide so let me know if you enjoy this series!

Getting to the Midlands Meander

Nearest city: Durban +/- 100km

The Midlands Meander roughly refers to the stretch between Hilton and Mooi River on the N3. It's about an hour away from Durban and four and a half hours from Johannesburg. 

Kind of traveller: It suits someone who enjoys unique arts and crafts, coffee shops and outdoor activities. It's also perfect for someone driving to/from Durban/Johannesburg.

How long do you need there: A night or 2 is sufficient to enjoy the midlands

When to visit: Summers are warm and beautiful and winters are very cold but have the added bonus of a chance of snow.

Where to stay

I did a blog post on Brahman Hills, a four star resort, and it's usually my first choice for accommodation in the Midlands. However there are also a lot of other stunning places to stay including Granny Mouse Country House and Midlands Saddle and Trout.

ALSO READ: BRAHMAN HILLS - COUNTRY ESCAPE IN THE KZN MIDLANDS

Restaurants in the Midlands

There's no shortage of restaurants in the Midlands and finding a place to eat is as simple as taking a drive through Howick or Nottingham Road.

Midlands Kitchen - not just and ordinary restaurant but a collection of 15 kitchens serving everything from Indian cuisine to pizza and gelato

Steam Punk - the perfect funky coffee stop

Piggly Wiggly - with a range of restaurant and cafe options, Piggly Wiggly is a one stop stop that has something for everyone

Chocolate Heaven - For all your chocolate lover needs

Caversham Mills Restaurant - Beautiful surroundings - it's overlooking the Lion and Impafana Rivers

Highgate Wine Estate - Located at Piggly Wiggly and one of KZNs only wine estates

Linage Coffee - Another favorite coffee shop

ALSO READ: THE MIDLANDS KITCHEN - FOODIE HEAVEN IN THE MIDLANDS

Activities in the Midlands

Piggly Wiggly - just browsing the range of stores at Piggly Wiggly will keep you busy for around 2 hours, you find the most unique things

Howick Falls - One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country

Nelson Mandela Capture Site - visiting the capture site and museum is a must to appreciate the history of the country

Karkloof Canopy Tours

Brahman Hills Spa - Get pampered at the Brahman Hills Spa

Howick Museum - learn about the history of the area at this museum

Ardmore Ceramic Art - Admire the beautiful ceramic art pieces at Ardmore

Horseriding at Midlands Saddle and Trout

This is just a brief summary of the Midlands to hopefully spark your interest in what the region has to offer. A quick google search will help you find other interesting facts and things to do - hopefully I'll get to experience more of the region soon and share it with you!