midlands forest lodge activities
Self catering and B and B accommodation, KZN Midlands
Things To Do At Midlands Forest Lodge
1. Forest Walks
Midlands Forest Lodge boasts 15 hectares of indigenous mist-belt forest. We have two types of Yellowwood trees scattered through the forest. Some trees are estimated to be over 600 years old. There is also a large Sneezewood tree which is one of the oldest still standing in the area. Sneezewood was used to make the buckets of the waterwheel at Caversham Mill in the late 1800s. The Cape Chestnut trees make a magnificent pink display once a year however it is the Knob Thorn trees that are most intriguing. We have two different walks through the forest. Each walk is approximately 1,5km long and they are moderate in difficulty. Maps are available in the guest files of each room.
2. Birding
Midlands Forest Lodge is fantastic for birding enthusiasts. One of our guests said: “My goodness. I feel like I stepped into paradise. I am a massive birder and I think I may spend my two days on the balcony! I will definitely be encouraging others to visit your beautiful space.”
We have a pair of nesting African Crowned Eagles and there are many other special residents such as the Paradise Fly Catcher, Cape Parrot and Knysna Turaco, to name just a few.
Sit on your veranda and watch the forest trees just ahead, or enjoy a walk in the forest and relax on one of our benches on the deck and enjoy what comes your way.
3. Read a Book
We have many interesting books of all types available in our beautiful communal lounge. Choose one and enjoy reading it in the lounge, or take it to your chalet and relax. Lose yourself in a good book.
4. Grassland Walks
The area we live in has a lot of rain and mist and therefore is a unique ecosystem. This area is known as the midlands mist-belt area.
Most of the natural grassland in the midlands in now being used for farming purposes therefore only approximately 5% of indigenous mist-belt grassland remains. We are lucky to have a small section of this grassland at Midlands Forest Lodge.
Walk the grassland and, particularly in Spring (September to November), enjoy the wild flowers and search for our ever-elusive ground orchids.
5. Mushrooms
Identification and Appreciation Only – No Foraging
15 Hectares of mist-belt forest which faces south, provides an ideal environment for mushrooms to grow during the spring and summer months.
We encourage you to take a slow walk through the forest with your eyes on the ground and on the trees. You will be surprised at how many different varieties you will find.
Please remember that our property is an eco-friendly property for the enjoyment of all our guests, therefore foraging of mushrooms is strictly prohibited.
6. For the Kiddies
For parents needing a nap as you catch up from busy city life, fear not as there is a jungle gym for the kiddies. This will keep them out of your hair for an hour or two. Put a blanket on the lawn beside the jungle gym and relax and have a sleep with one eye and one ear open for the kids.
7. Lions River Rafting
Our Motto is “Every day is Saturday”. This reflects how every day on the river feels like an adventure to us.
We launch from Mill Cottages next door to Caversham Mill Restaurant, 3,5km from Midlands Forest Lodge. The trip on the Lions River is a fun-filled half day outing. The waters are Grade 2 at low water and 3 at high water therefor this stretch of river will definitely get your heart rate pumping.
We have qualified. experienced guides. All equipment, transport from take out, river refreshments and easy to paddle single-seat or two-seater inflatable rafts are provided. Bring a costume, sunscreen. To Book go to: www.lionsriverrafting.co.za
