Midlands Meander

A route through the country, joining art and craft outlets located amoungst the rolling green hills in the Kingdom of the Zulu

The Midlands Meander is a route through the country, joining art and craft outlets located amoungst the rolling green hills, located between Durban and Johannesburg, just off the N3, in the Kingdom of the Zulu.

Launched in 1985, five crafters wanted people to meet the artists in their studios rather than seeing their work in distant art galleries and shops. Today there is a network of roads that link over 60 artists and crafters resinging in this beautiful part of South Africa.

The route is also filled with various activities, from the thrilling Karkloof Canopy Tours,  exhilirating horse riding, golf, fishing, awesome hiking, historical rock art, spas, to inspiring township tours.

There are so many scenic spots to visit and things to do, yet simply enjoying the sights and sounds, not doing anything but relaxing and allowing nature to restore your soul and mind is enough reason to make time to stay here…

Expext all four seasons in a day! This area is known for its cool mists that are burnt away by our warm South African sun in summer,and at the en slaught of spring that also goes well into summer – specatacular thunderstorms come rolling in from the berg and bring us greener grass, (yes, the grass is greener here!) It’s autumn leaves that remind you to get out during the day-light hours. It is this season that is enjoyed the most by our more romantic guests who explore the region and pack as many activities and places of interest they can possibly frequent between dawn and dusk and snuggle up at night when the temperatures start dropping in preparation for the winter.  There is ice still hanging on the fence when the sun rises and on occasion snow blankets the then brown pastures and trees.  Winter is a time to make time for each other and the family, enjoy the warmth of friendship, fireplaces, good wine, fantastic venues, and finally have an excuse to turn up the heat!

Originating with the arrival of the first settlers in the early 1800’s the area boasts many wonderful homes and barns, an attraction to lovers of architecture. As you tour the Midlands Meander you will also notice that this area is home to a number of the country’s most famous schools. The Midlands Meander has also grown to offer much more than Arts and Crafts, but also now boasts a vast number of top-class hospitality establishments. Converted from classic old farmhouses or outbuildings, they cater for the full spectrum of guests’ needs, ranging from luxury to rustic. Partake of fine dining, informal cuisine, or simply self-cater. The choice is yours.

The geographic boundaries of the Midlands Meander extend from Hilton in the south to Hidcote in the north and span from the Dargle Valley in the west to Currys Post & the Karkloof in the east. An hour’s drive from Durban and less than five hours from Johannesburg, the Midlands Meander is within easy reach. All the tours are easily accessible from the N3 and all fly-offs are clearly marked with the Midlands Meander signage.

The Midlands is predominantly summer grassland with indigenous semi-evergreen yellowwood forests in protected habitats. Commercial timber growing has dramatically increased pine and gum forest plantations. The region produces nearly 50% of the farming income for the province, and boasts abundant grazing and water to support dairy farms, beef studs and a stable of top race horse breeding and training establishments.

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