Instagram Facebook X-twitter

Advertisement

The Cycle Shed at Kloofzicht Banner

5 Epic Tourism Routes Along the KZN Midlands Meander

Whether you’re a foodie, a fisherman, a birder or an art lover, there is something for everyone

Updated August 2026

Share this article

Winter escapes in the KZN Midlands

The Kwa Zulu-Natal Midlands is one of the regions in South Africa that we have found is often overlooked. Yet, this time of the year, it’s the perfect place to be, with beautiful days and cosy evenings that make for unforgettable moments.

The Midlands are known for its beautiful scenery, but also its rich history. In fact, there is a Midlands Meander with five different routes to follow. So, whether you’re a foodie, a fisherman, a birder or an art lover, there is something for everyone. Here is where we would suggest you escape to this winter, with the Midlands’ five routes as guideline.

Advertisement
Betway Sports Betting

Hilton to Boston - About 49km

What to see

This route runs through the towns of Merrivale, Howick and Mpophomeni to Karkloof, which is a birders’ paradise. You’ll also find the Karkloof Conservation Centre here, as well as a lovely farmer’s market, situated right next to The Old Mushroom Farm. Karkloof Tours boasts numerous adventurous activities for you to take part in and the Midmar Dam and Midmar Resort are also in the area – famous for fishing and water sports.

Where to stay

The Old Mushroom Farm’s owners have two accommodation options close to the Midmar Dam worth checking out. The one is called Hill House and the other, Lakehouse. Little Fields Country House is also a lovely little spot to consider. The Old Mushroom Farm itself also has numerous accommodation options available, with the latest being their new apartments, which boast either one or two rooms.

Kaarlkloof Conservation Centre
Kaarlkloof Conservation Centre
Little Fields Country House
Little Fields Country House
Old Mushroom Farm
Old Mushroom Farm

Curry’s Post to Mount West - About 23km

What to see

This is one of the shorter Midlands Meander routes. It traverses from outside Howick, through to Balgowan and Curry’s Post to Mount West. It passes the Troutbagger Trout Farm, an Alpaca farm, as well as Basket Weavers and will most certainly ensure some great roadside entertainment. Pop in at leather factories en route. The popular Windmills Country Stop is also on this route, with ample space to stretch your legs and to grab a bite to eat. There are jungle gyms and lovely gardens too, so even the kids would enjoy this short trip. Brahman Hills is located next door to Windmills, boasting an impressive spa and various other activities.

Where to stay

Brahman Hills’ accommodation is trendy and stylish, with various options to choose from. Their self-catering cottages are the more private option and come with Jacuzzis and fireplace, offering a memorable country stay.

troutbagger
Troutbagger Trout Farm
The Windmills
The Windmills
Brahman Hills
Brahman Hills

Dargle to Nottingham Road - About 29km

What to see

Travel between Fort Nottingham and the backroads of the Dargle Valley where you will be amazed by forests and birdlife galore. There are trails to take, shops to visit, farm stalls to explore and various eateries to try out on this route. Also be sure to check out the Lavendar Company, Woodturner and Shuttleworths’ Mohair rugs and the Piggly Wiggly.

Where to stay

We’d opt for AfriCamps at Gowan Valley, which we can highly recommend. Brookdale Health Hydro is another accommodation option here, offering visitors the ideal environment for time-out, self-reflection and contemplation. They also have a day spa. Or, check out the top-rate Lavendar Trout Farm.

Shuttleworth Weaving
Shuttleworth Weaving
Brookdale Health Hydro
Brookdale Health Hydro
Africamps
Africamps
Advertisement
City Sightseeing Red Bus Joburg

Lions River to Nottingham Road - About 27km

What to see

Travel along the R103 through Lidgetton and Balgowan and stop at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site. You can also see the famous Michaelhouse on this route and get some arts and crafts souvenirs along the way. The route is also home to Swissland Cheese Farm, various farm stalls and factory shops. Also, stopping at Highgate Wine Estate for lunch and a wine tasting comes highly recommended and Piggly Wiggly is also on this route – something any parent travelling with kids would be happy to know. Just off this route, you’ll also find shops like Tsonga and Ardmore Ceramic Art. For the foodies, the top-rated Mini Me Patisserie & Bistro is also located on this route, as is the Bierfassl Restaurant and Pub for those keen on a German beer and Bratwurst.

Where to stay

The popular Granny Mouse Country House & Spa is on this route, which was founded by Richard and Mouse Poynton who are now the owners of Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse.

Swissland Cheese
Swissland Cheese
Piggly Wiggly
Piggly Wiggly
Bierfassl Bar
Bierfassl Bar
Granny Mouse Country House
Granny Mouse Country House

Mooi River to Giant’s Castle - About 46km

What to see

While this road is currently in a terrible state, it’s still a beautiful drive along the Loteni Road and Kamberg Valley Pass. This region is home to the Kamberg Nature Reserve and it’s the closest route of all five to the Drakensberg Mountains. From here, you can take various hiking trails and even spot some Khoisan paintings.

Where to stay

If you don’t feel like turning back and would like to spend a romantic weekend at a culinary gem right next to Highmoor, we recommend staying at the beautiful Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse.

Kamberg Nature Reserve
Kamberg Nature Reserve
Cleopatra Mountain Retreat
Cleopatra Mountain Retreat
Highmoor Camp Ground
Highmoor Camp Ground
Images: Sourced

For more travel inspiration, click here.

Read our digital magazine.

Follow us on Instagram.

Advertisement

You May Also Enjoy These Related Articles

Tau Game Lodge Madikwe Game Reserve

Tau Game Lodge: A Five-Star Safari Escape in Madikwe

Nestled in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve, on the border between South
Read More
Ellerman House Hotel

|

Cape Town’s Most Luxurious Hotels You Must Visit in 2026

Updated August 2026: From intimate boutique hotels in the V&A Waterfront to grand historic
Read More
Staycations at Blaauwklippen Manor in Stellenbosch

New Era of Luxury Staycations at Blaauwklippen Manor in Stellenbosch

Read More
aeroplane flying over a scenic landscape

South Africa’s Seal of Quality: Why TGCSA Grading is the Benchmark for Excellence

With local and international visitors expecting high standards, consistency, and comfort, maintaining excellence across
Read More
The Cole Bedroom overlooking the ocean, complete with wooden floors and neutral furniture

The Cole: Cape Town’s New Chapter in Coastal Luxury

Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard is about to welcome a new name in luxury living.
Read More
Hotel Sky Sandton Festive Calendar

Hotel Sky Pulls Out All The Stops for the Festive Season

This festive season, Hotel Sky Sandton invites guests to experience the very best of
Read More
Read our latest Edition
Hello Lifestyle Magazine Cover Autumn 2026
Explore More
Read Our latest posts
Advertisement
iQ Affiliate Banner May 2026
Book Travel Deals
Enter our competitions

Upcoming events across mzansi

No event found!
Load More
Follow us on social media
Facebook Instagram X-twitter Linkedin
Discover fun things to do in mzansi

stay in the loop. live the lifestyle.

Enjoying our content? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and every Thursday you’ll receive exciting news, reviews and event details from across Mzanzi!

By sharing your email address with us, you consent to Hello Lifestyle Magazine’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You also consent to receive emails from Hello Lifestyle Magazine and our partners regarding news, events, offers and promotions.

Enjoying our content?

Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter

Stay up-to-date on the hottest, hippest and most happening things to do in Mzansi!

Hello lifestyle uses cookies to curate specific content that our readers enjoy. By continuing to navigate on our website, we assume you're cool with that. For more information on how we use cookies and how to disable them, please read our Terms and condtitions.

Accept Cookies