Are you wondering what there is to do in the KZN Midlands while staying at Caversham Mill Country Cottages? The Midlands Meander offers you many activities whilst staying or visiting the area. For those not familiar with the Meander, it is a cluster of organised scenic routes in KwaZulu Natal that stretch from Mooi River in the north, Hilton in the south, Karkloof in the east and the foothills of the Drakensberg in the west.
Visitors to the Meander can expect spectacular views and mouth-watering cuisine at charming restaurants. Experience outdoor activities guaranteed to rejuvenate mind and body. Visit historic landmarks including the Mandela Capture Site.
There are events, arts and crafts and a host more waiting for you. Some would describe it as a “little piece of heaven” or “a taste of paradise” It’s a wonderland that every South African should try to experience at least once in their lifetime.
Tourists and locals alike can enjoy panoramic mountain scenery and fresh, crisp country air that is sure to help you de-stress. Leave behind all the pressures of everyday life and experience the top attractions along the Midlands Meander. It’s a memorable and informative journey through the heart of KZN. Why not take the time to discover the unspoilt beauty of the Midlands valley.
Discover what the Midlands Meander has to offer
Driving through the winding roads of the Meander, you can expect to come across an array of quaint little establishments that offer everything from adrenalin filled sporting activities to relaxing spas. Here is a sneak peak of what you can expect to experience on your journey through the Midlands.
Top things to do when you visit the Midlands Meander
1. Thrilling Canopy Tours
Experience the Midlands countryside and all its spectacular views from a zip line. Karkloof Canopy Tours offer you the opportunity to glide through the trees and take in all levels of the valley. If you are lucky enough, you may spot a few endangered Cape Parrots. Glide gently on a steel cable and view the impressive giant ferns below you. Are you staying at Caversham Mill Cottages or Forest Lodge and want to experience this tour? Take a leisurely drive to Karkloof and get ready to fly like a bird.
2. Relaxing Spas
Reach new heights of relaxation at a spa in the lush Midlands. Make the day all about you. Experience new levels of pampering designed to leave you feeling refreshed and renewed from your head down to your toes. Unwind in a Jacuzzi or get a full body massage or scrub that will energise your body and soothe your soul. Indigo Fields African Bush Spa offer all this and more. Situated around 20 minutes from Caversham Mill, it is well worth the short trip.
3. Must-see Arts & Crafts
Purchase some local masterpieces from world renowned artists. There is so much to choose from that you will find it hard to make up your mind. We would suggest taking a short drive via the R103 from Caversham to Shuttleworth Weavers and view their range of truly beautiful carpets and rugs. If that is not what you had in mind, why not visit Heavenly Hammocks in Currys Post. They have a range of visually-stunning hammocks that are designed to give you years of luxury.
4. Divine Culinary Experiences
Give your taste buds an adventure right here at Caversham Mill Restaurant. We will give you an unforgettable culinary experience. Our child-friendly facilities are the ideal setting for birthday parties, company functions, or even fun family get-togethers. Our first class establishment offers comfort food prepared using only fresh locally produced ingredients. If you’re staying at our cottages or lodge, visit our restaurant today and enjoy a scrumptious, well priced meal. We come highly recommended by SA Venues.
5. Exquisite vineyards & locally produced wine
Unique visual & tasting experiences are what you will experience when you visit any of the wine estates on the Meander. Indulge in a glass or bottle of wine at Abingdon Wine Estate around 10 minutes from Caversham Mill. Situated in Lions River, they are KZN’s premier wine estate offering heavenly wines by the glass or bottle. This idyllic spot in the Midlands has wines that are on par with anything the Cape has to offer.
6. Refreshing Beer Tasting
A unique selection of quality, authentic beers await you at Balgowan Brewery just down the road from Caversham Mill. Or, take a 15 minute drive to the Nottingham Road Brewing Company. Locals and tourists alike have been delighted by Notties range of ales and lagers.
7. Farmers Markets
These are critical components in rebuilding local food economies in the Midlands. Buy fresh local produce and support family businesses all while connecting with the community. The Karkloof Farmers Market in Howick is just under half an hour from Caversham Mill and offers reasonably priced goods and a friendly atmosphere. Take the family over on a Saturday morning for superb food and fresh farm produce.
8. Exhilarating Horse Riding Adventures
Navigate the mountains and trails of the Midlands on horseback. Guide your horse through the magnificent scenery of the Meander and explore the surrounding countryside. Buffelsbosch Equestrian to Caversham Mill is only a few minutes drive and offers rides for novice, intermediate and advanced riders.
9. Top-class, luxury accommodation
Quaint, restful, and refreshing accommodation await you right here at Caversham Mill Country Cottages. Our self-catering facilities feature free WiFi, 24/7 security and free parking. Enjoy a stay at our Victorian-style cottages in a country garden setting on the Lions and Impafana Rivers. Relax and unwind at Midlands Forest Lodge with eight timber log cabin chalets perched high on the Balgowan hills.
10. Take in the majestic Drakensberg
An iconic feature of KwaZulu Natal and natural wonder in South Africa. This majestic mountain range covers three provinces with the largest portion falling in KZN. Go hiking in spectacular surroundings at the Impendle Nature Reserve. It is around an hour drive from Balgowan but worth it.
11. Visit the Mandela Capture Site
A landmark along the Midlands Meander, this unique, internationally recognisable sculpture a short drive away. Directions from Caversham Mill to the Mandela Capture Site. It marks the spot where Nelson Mandela was captured by Apartheid security forces in 1962.
12. Visit Piggly Wiggly
This well-known venue in the Midlands is situated a few minutes away from Caversham. They offer fun for the whole family. Enjoy candle dipping, mini golf, the Piggy Zip canopy tour, or visit the Dingo farm and reptile park. Shop ‘til you drop at one of their many retail outlets and finish off your day at Piggly Wiggly coffee shop.
Are you Ready to Experience a little Stretch of Heaven?
Caversham Mill and Midlands Forest Lodge are situated in the heart of the Midlands Meander. Shop ‘til you drop and then wind down the day at Caversham Mill restaurant for a scrumptious late afternoon meal.
Our well-priced establishment is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, teas and drinks. You can smell the fresh country air while enjoying spectacular food in a stunning setting.
After a long action-filled day, why not rest your head at our Midlands Forest Lodge or Carversham Mill Cottages? Our tranquil and secluded retreats are guaranteed to soothe your soul.
Come and experience the misty forests, lush grassy plains and magnificent rocky cliffs that only the Midlands Meander can offer. Make your next holiday adventure be an unforgettable trip through the Midlands. Plan your trip today and explore all the beauty and adventure that KZN has to offer.