Discover the Midlands
Beyond Bosch Hoek
From rolling farmlands and forest valleys to artisan studios, farm-to-table dining, and slow country living, the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands is a place best explored without hurry.
Stay with us at the centre of it all, and use your time here as an invitation to wander, taste, and discover the creative heart of the countryside.
Arts & Creative Culture
Artisan studios, galleries, and makers rooted in craft, heritage, and expression.
Ardmore Ceramics
A world-renowned design studio celebrating African wildlife and storytelling through bold ceramics, textiles, and luxury décor. Each piece blends heritage with contemporary artistry.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 73 252 7963
- Address:
- Caversham Road, Lidgetton, 3270
- Distance:
- 6.7 km
Astrid Dahl Ceramics
Astrid Dahl creates expressive ceramic sculptures inspired by nature, focusing on light, form, and emotion rather than literal representation — each piece carefully hand-built, fired, and finished to highlight its organic beauty.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 84 799 8998
- Address:
- Oldenburg Farm, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 10 km
Food & Farm-to-Table Experiences
Farm kitchens, country cafés, and restaurants rooted in local produce and relaxed Midlands hospitality.
Fable Eatery
Fable Eatery offers farm-to-table cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients in a relaxed, welcoming setting. With a cosy atmosphere and a focus on quality food and community, it's a space designed for guests to feel at home.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 72 046 7516
- Address:
- 85 Curry's Post Road, Curry's Post, 3290
- Distance:
- 12.0 km
The Salt Slab
Salt Slab is an authentic Texas-style BBQ restaurant, serving slow-smoked brisket, ribs, sausages, and classic American sides. It combines bold smoky flavours with South African hospitality for a memorable dining experience.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 63 450 5147
- Address:
- 42 Curry's Post Road, Curry's Post, 3290
- Distance:
- 9.9 km
Bierfassl Restaurant & Pub
Home of the famous crispy eisbein. A much-loved institution serving hearty Austrian-inspired dishes, craft beers, and traditional pub fare in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 74 377 7597
- Address:
- Rawdons Estate, R103, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 9.4 km
Notties Pub
A historic pub known for its warm hospitality and festive atmosphere. Classic pub grub, sports screenings, and live music make it a lively social hub for good food, drinks, and entertainment.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 33 266 6151
- Address:
- Main Road, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 9.9 km
La Lampara
A romantic Italian farmhouse restaurant offering traditional Italian cuisine in a scenic country setting. Known for its warm atmosphere, seasonal menu, and excellent pasta, pizza, and meat dishes.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 82 416 0195
- Address:
- Farm Boschfontein, Balgowan, 3275
- Distance:
- 6.7 km
Caversham Mill Restaurant
Set beside the Lions River, this historic mill-turned-restaurant has been thoughtfully revived. Enjoy a refreshed menu featuring a variety of cuisine, including standout curries and Indian-inspired dishes.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 82 389 1395
- Address:
- C6 Caversham Valley, Lidgetton West, 3270
- Distance:
- 8.9 km
Netherwood Farm
A scenic destination surrounded by Drakensberg views, with a café, brewery, and family-friendly farmyard. A relaxed place to unwind, enjoy local food and craft drinks, and connect with country living.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 83 592 9120
- Address:
- R103, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 6.3 km
Skye Bistro Restaurant
Fine country dining at Fordoun. Open daily, offering fresh, locally sourced cuisine with modern touches, from hearty breakfasts to elegant dinners — complemented by a curated wine collection.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 33 266 6217
- Address:
- Fordoun Hotel & Spa, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 6.9 km
Linga Lapa
A warm, farm-style restaurant and lifestyle destination serving standout steak. A farm stall offers biltong, drywors, local cheeses, and quality butchered meats alongside a curated selection of home and lifestyle goods, including woven rugs and Nguni skins.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 61 898 4939
- Address:
- Exit 132, off N3, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 6.1 km
Adventure & Outdoor Living
Trails, forests, fairways, and open landscapes designed for exploration.
Gowrie Farm Golf Course
A tranquil 18-hole course known for its hospitality, good food, and beautifully designed layout. An inviting destination for golfers and visitors looking to enjoy the peace and charm of the countryside.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 33 266 6348
- Address:
- R103, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 8.8 km
Karkloof Horse Adventures
A farm-based equestrian experience, offering scenic trails through valleys, waterfalls, and farmland. Activities include guided rides, picnic and breakfast rides and lessons for all levels.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 83 480 2051
- Address:
- Umgetu Farm, Howick, KwaZulu-Natal
- Distance:
- 18 km
Karkloof Canopy Tours
A guided zipline adventure through the mist-belt forest, featuring 12 platforms and 10 slides, including a 200 m zipline. A safe, family-friendly experience with scenic views and rich birdlife.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 76 241 2888
- Address:
- Karkloof Road, Howick, 3290
- Distance:
- 16 km
Escape Fly Fishing
Guided fly fishing experiences with access to premium still waters, rivers, and private fishing venues. Trips range from single-day outings to clinics and group events.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 83 607 6109
- Address:
- 107 Peter Brown Drive, Pietermaritzburg, 3201
- Distance:
- 34 km
Family-Friendly Experiences
Animal farms, picnic spots, gentle activities, and interactive stops that work for all ages.
Fort Nottingham Museum
A preserved settler fort offering a fascinating look into the lives of the people who shaped the region. Well-preserved exhibits and scenic surroundings bring the area's heritage to life.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 33 266 6482
- Address:
- Fort Nottingham Road
- Distance:
- 20 km
Nelson Mandela Capture Site
A landmark marking Nelson Mandela's 1962 arrest, featuring a visitor centre and the iconic 'Release' sculpture that forms his face from 50 steel columns. A meaningful cultural and historical experience.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 72 351 0967
- Address:
- R103, Howick, 3290
- Distance:
- 15 km
The Old Mushroom Farm
A creative rural destination transformed into artisan studios, shops, and eateries. Discover gardens, walking trails, and family-friendly activities surrounded by scenic natural views.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 60 470 1218
- Address:
- 11 Karkloof Road, Howick, 3290
- Distance:
- 17 km
Swissland Cheese
A working goat cheese farm producing award-winning artisanal cheeses. Enjoy a hands-on farm experience, tasting, and purchase a variety of artisanal cheese.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 82 418 3440
- Address:
- Old Main Road, R103, Balgowan, 3275
- Distance:
- 7.1 km
Chocolate Heaven
An interactive chocolate dipping experience. Indulge in unique flavour combinations coated in melted chocolate — relax, play, and make a mess while you enjoy it.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 74 828 0132
- Address:
- Shop 1, The Junction, Main Road, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 9.6 km
Piggly Wiggly
A country village offering artisanal shops, eateries, family activities, and creative experiences. From animal encounters to zip-lining and bike trails, a full-day destination for all ages.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 82 511 2769
- Address:
- 1 Dargle Road, Lions River, R103
- Distance:
- 12 km
Epic Karting
An outdoor karting track offering fast-paced, family-friendly racing in a scenic setting. Perfect for a bit of friendly competition and all-ages fun.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 79 320 1770
- Address:
- Old Balgowan Farm, R103, Howick, 3275
- Distance:
- 6.8 km
Wellness & Relaxation
Spas, retreats, and restorative spaces surrounded by nature.
Fordoun Spa
A tranquil wellness retreat on a historic dairy farm. Heritage buildings have been transformed into a serene spa, bistro, and country escape — holistic treatments, peaceful gardens, and a slow, restorative atmosphere.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 33 266 6217
- Address:
- Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 6.9 km
Brookdale Health Hydro
A restorative wellness escape set in a farm and forest setting. Guided wellness activities, spa treatments, nourishing cuisine, and facilities designed for relaxation and renewal.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 33 266 6208
- Address:
- R103, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 8.1 km
Indigo Fields
A peaceful wellness retreat in the Balgowan Valley — a space for healing, simplicity, and connection to nature, with restorative spa treatments and locally inspired cuisine.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 33 266 6101
- Address:
- R103, Nottingham Road, 3280
- Distance:
- 5.8 km
Shopping & Local Produce
Handmade goods, artisan products, and locally crafted pieces rooted in Midlands creativity.
Groundcover Leather Company
A heritage leather workshop producing handcrafted leather footwear, bags, accessories, and Nguni products made by skilled artisans using sustainable, locally sourced materials.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 82 562 0874
- Address:
- Groundcover Farm, Curry's Post Road, Howick, 3290
- Distance:
- 8.8 km
Indezi River Creamery
Handcrafted cow, goat, and sheep milk cheeses, yoghurt, butter, and kefir, alongside local preserves and artisanal foods.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 79 812 0298
- Address:
- Curry's Post Road, Balgowan, 3275
- Distance:
- 1.2 km
Wedgewood Crafted Confectionery
A family-run confectionery, where honey nougat, biscuits, and ice cream are crafted in small batches using time-honoured recipes and the finest local ingredients.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 33 001 0399
- Address:
- Piggly Wiggly, R103 Dargle Road, Howick, Lions River, 3290
- Distance:
- 12 km
De Tiamo
A Midlands-based fashion label producing timeless, 100% pure linen clothing — versatile neutrals and seasonal colours offering comfortable, flattering fashion.
- Contact:
- +27 (0) 82 096 3758
- Address:
- 83–84 Curry's Post Road, Curry's Post, 3290
- Distance:
- 4.6 km