A Weekend Expedition in the Kwa Zulu-Natal Midlands
Discover the Best Shopping, Drinking, and Fun Activities in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
If you’re looking for an exciting adventure in the Kwa Zulu-Natal Midlands, get ready to shop, sip, and have a blast! In this article, we’ll take you on an adventure to some of the most captivating spots in the area. From unique local shops like KZNSA Shop, The Ruby Orchard, and Groundcover Leather Co., to charming bars like 68 on Main and Woodstone Restaurant & Wine Bar, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re seeking some fun-filled activities, we’ve got you covered with CheckPoint103 Activity Hub. Get ready to experience the best the Midlands has to offer for a weekend adventure.
KZNSA Shop
Located at the KZNSA Gallery, this shop houses various products by locally based independents, small enterprises, designers, crafters and artists. The store showcases everything from fashion and scatter cushions to beautiful ceramics by Nindya Bucktowar and handmade accessories by Ruth Rankin.
The Ruby Orchard
Probably one of our favourite shops in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, The Ruby Orchard is not only brilliantly located, but it also boasts the most beautiful homeware, furniture, fashion and gifts. The shop is based in Yard 41, which is home to The Treatery, a nursery and other restaurants with the most beautiful views across the valley.
Amazing munch spots in KwaZulu-Natal
From Upper Highway to the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, when it comes to food and drink, there is much to explore in Durban and beyond.
Groundcover Leather Co.
Groundcover has certainly covered some ground over the years, having been founded by Justin and Amanda McCarthy in 1990. You’ll find their 100-year-old farm shop (their primary shop and factory) on their farm in Curry’s Post, but they’ve since expanded with shops in Ballito and Hillcrest too.
The shop is visited by people from around the world who come to admire the magnificence of the Midlands and who want to see how their shoes are made. From belts and purses to sandals and handbags, Groundcover’s got you covered when it comes to lifestyle and travel accessories.
68 on Main
While certainly not the fanciest bar in town, it’s certainly one of the oldest in the area and one that has loads of stories to tell. Located in a heritage building that is linked to Queen Victoria’s carpenter, this old English pub instantly transports you to days gone by. Enjoy a beer, a glass of wine (filled to the brim) or a G&T at this historic bar and couple it with a typical pub grub like Bangers and Mash.
Woodstone Restaurant & Wine Bar
New to the area, this lovely wine-inspired restaurant in Howick comes with a menu filled with dishes one often craves. While it poses as the perfect winter venue, it also has ample seating outside for those hot Midlands afternoons when a cold beer or a dry Rosé is the only thing that could make things right. On rainy days, you’re in for a treat with coffee from their favourite roaster, Manna Roastery.
CheckPoint103 Activity Hub
Adventure awaits at CheckPoint103, located just off the R103. This is the Midlands home of Epic Karting, kid racer electric karts, mini putt-putt, sand art and even a balance bike track. While walk-ins are welcome, they recommend bookings for larger groups or special events. There is a coffee shop and a gift shop on the premises and you can book specialised packages like The Amazing Race, Murder Mystery or puzzle challenges in advance. They are only open from Thursdays through to Mondays and every day during the school holidays.
