Just one hour outside of Durban, the Midlands Meander feels like a completely different world. Rolling green hills, misty mornings, slow drives, and the kind of quiet that forces you to breathe deeper and be present. It’s a place where time slows down, where you notice the little things; the smell of coffee drifting through the air, dogs lazing in the sun, rain tapping softly on the windows, and landscapes that feel grounding and restorative.

This is exactly what inspired The Magic of the Midlands, a digital series celebrating everything that makes this region so special, across the seasons. From where to eat and play, to where to stay, this guide highlights some of the best experiences we enjoyed during our Midlands Meander escape.

You too can plan your perfect ‘Magic of the Midlands’ escape by downloading the Midlands Meander App, your on-the-go-guide to the Midlands Meander.

Click here to download for IOS – Apple App Store
Click here to download for Android – Google Play Store

EAT

Home Slice Café

Located inside one of the original mushroom tunnels at The Old Mushroom Farm in Howick, Home Slice Café is quirky, welcoming, and an absolute must-visit.

They serve Bluebird Coffee and offer outstanding all-day breakfast options made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which are picked straight from the community garden on the farm.

Other highlights:

• Free WiFi — perfect if you need a work-from-home moment
• Pet friendly, with the owners’ dogs happily wandering in and out and settling at your feet

It’s the kind of place you arrive for a coffee… and end up staying for hours.

Give them a follow:
FB: @Homeslicecafekzn
IG: @home_slice_cafe

Bite Society

Located in a gorgeous corner building at The Old Mushroom Farm in Howick, Bite Society is a tapas and pizzeria spot that truly captures the heart of the Midlands.

They serve wood-fired pizzas and tapas that are simple, honest, and packed with flavour. Every dish feels thoughtfully prepared and incredibly satisfying.

The space itself is full of country charm, with shabby-chic decor, vintage mismatched pieces, and a warmth that makes you feel like you’re dining in someone’s home. It’s personal, community-driven, and incredibly special.

Amazing food, beautiful atmosphere, and a place that brings people together — a Midlands gem.

Give them a follow:
FB: @Bite-Society-61574810636533
IG: @bite_society_

Skyfall Restaurant

We were treated to a three-course lunch at Skyfall Restaurant located inside Brahman Hills, and it was perfection from start to finish.

Elegant in style and set against sweeping views of the Brahman Hills Legacy Garden, the atmosphere is calm, refined, and unhurried, the kind of place where you’re encouraged to linger and truly enjoy the experience. The service was warm, attentive, and seamless throughout.

To start, we ordered the confit pork croquettes, which were plated with incredible precision and attention to detail. They looked beautiful and tasted just as good, crisp on the outside, rich and flavourful inside. Another standout starter (and our favourite) was the beef trinchado, deeply flavourful, comforting, and made with beautifully tender meat.

For mains, we shared the tallow-aged fillet of beef, served with a roasted bone marrow that added incredible depth and richness to the dish. The fillet was cooked perfectly medium, exactly as requested, and finished with a creamy pepper sauce that tied everything together beautifully.

We also enjoyed the herb-crusted rack of lamb, which paired perfectly with a bottle of red wine and was cooked to perfection.

Dessert was just as memorable. We tried the chocolate lava as well as the trio of gelato, featuring berry, Belgian chocolate, and hazelnut flavours, all absolutely incredible and the perfect way to end the meal.

This experience alone is worth the drive to the Midlands. A stroll through the gardens, followed by a leisurely lunch at Skyfall makes for the ultimate day trip.

Give them a follow:
FB: @brahmanhills
IG: @brahmanhills

Terbodore Coffee Bar

Primarily a coffee bar, Terbodore Coffee Roasters are all about exceptional coffee done properly. Alongside their smooth, consistently excellent brews, they also offer a selection of fresh pastries and on-the-go snacks, making it the perfect pit stop whether you’re travelling through or settling in for a slower morning.

After 18 years in Curry’s Post, Terbodore Coffee Roasters has relocated its coffee bar and roastery to the picturesque town of Howick, marking an exciting new chapter for this much-loved Midlands brand. Their new home at 70 Main Road, Howick, feels fresh and contemporary while still retaining the warmth and quality they’re known for.

With a roastery onsite and WiFi available, it’s also a great option for working remotely while enjoying really good coffee.

Give them a follow:
FB: @Terbodore
IG: @terbodorecoffee

Wedgewood Midlands Emporium

If you’re in the Midlands, a visit to the Wedgewood Midlands Emporium is non-negotiable.

We visited their emporium located in Piggly Wiggly, and it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Known for serving the best ice cream in the Midlands, this stop delivers on every level.

Luxurious, indulgent, and completely unforgettable, the ice cream is unmatched. Add incredible service and the rich history of the brand, and you’ve got a stop you’ll return to again and again.

Give them a follow:
FB: @wedgewoodnougat
IG: @wedgewoodnougat

PLAY

Stockowners Outdoor Park

Stockowners Outdoor Park is a fantastic space for couples, families, and anyone looking to play, relax, or do a bit of everything.

Facilities include:

• Café
• Driving range
• Cricket nets
• Pump track
• Motocross & enduro tracks
• Jungle gym & mini zip line

We tried the driving range, grabbing a bucket of 50 balls — and as a couple who doesn’t play golf, we had the best time.
Targets and appliances are set up in front of you, turning it into a fun challenge rather than a serious game.

Rain or shine, this is a great stop, with plenty of fresh air to enjoy.

Give them a follow:
FB: @therangeatstockowners
IG: @stockowners_outdoor_park

Karkloof Canopy Tour

The Karkloof Canopy Tour is a bucket-list experience we cannot recommend enough.

You zipline through the second-largest indigenous forest in Southern Africa, which already makes this adventure incredibly special. The day we went was misty, grey, and drizzly, and honestly, it made the experience even more magical. Think ‘Gorillas in the Mist’ vibes as you glide above treetops wrapped in fog.

The tour is a 2-hour adventure made up of 10 zip lines, guided by highly experienced and professional guides who make you feel completely safe from start to finish.

Good to know:

• Suitable for ages 6 years and older
• Maximum weight limit: 130kg
• Don’t let “bad weather” scare you off, cooler temperatures and moody scenery only add to the magic

With breathtaking views, an immersive forest setting, and an unforgettable sense of adventure, this is a 10/10 experience and a must-do when visiting the Midlands.

Give them a follow:
FB: @karkloofcanopy
IG: @karkloofcanopytour

Brahman Hills Garden Tour

The Brahman Hills Legacy Garden is truly spectacular.

Built and established in 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown, the gardens are the result of teamwork, creativity, and resilience. When tourism came to a halt, staff worked together to create something extraordinary.

We did a guided tour with Abongile, who shared his personal journey in helping build the gardens, along with fascinating insights into the flora and fauna.

Highlights include:

• The breathtaking Grotto, where you go underground to view a statue of Medusa — eerie, mystical, and unforgettable
• Sculptures and art scattered throughout the gardens

While you can explore the gardens on your own, we highly recommend opting for the guided tour. Hearing the stories and context behind the gardens adds so much depth and appreciation to the experience and truly brings the space to life.

Entrance to the gardens is only R90 per person (if you’re not making use of any of the other facilities), and we would 100% recommend even doing this as a simple day trip, enjoying a leisurely garden tour followed by lunch, just as we did.

Give them a follow:
FB: @brahmanhills
IG: @brahmanhills

STAY

The Old Mushroom Farm

We stayed in one of The Old Mushroom Farm’s boutique apartments, and it was nothing short of exceptional.

The apartment comfortably sleeps four guests, with one king bed and two single beds, making it ideal for couples, friends, or a small family. One of our favourite features was the cosy nook, perfect for slow mornings with coffee, reading, or simply switching off.

A clever and thoughtful setup allows for the best of both worlds:

• Bed & Breakfast at the onsite Home Slice Café, or
• Self-catering, thanks to a fully equipped kitchen in the apartment.

The decor is vintage-industrial, with high ceilings, beautiful natural light, and so much character. The apartments are refurbished storage units from the original mushroom farm, which adds to the charm and history of the space.

The best part? You don’t even need to leave the property. With a coffee shop (Home Slice Café) and restaurant (Bite Society) onsite, all your meals are covered from breakfast through to dinner.

Super comfortable, thoughtfully designed, and full of soul, this is a must-stay in the Midlands.

Give them a follow:
FB: @theoldmushroomfarmkarkloof
IG: @theoldmushroomfarm

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr to be staged by The Young Performers’ Project at the Milkwood Theatre, Danville: 2 – 12 April 2026.

Fishy Fable: Inspired by Hans Christian Andersens’ beloved fairy tale, and based on the classic animated Disney movie, The Little Mermaid Jr stage musical is The Young Performer’s Project’s first show of 2026, coming to The Milkwood Theatre in Durban North over the Easter holidays from 2 – 12 April 2026.

BUY TICKETS HERE

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages – perfect for the youthful 50 strong cast. This time around, the show features 30 senior performers, and 21 junior performers.

The Little Mermaid Jr is directed by Daisy Spencer, with choreography by Evashnee Pillay, music direction by Des Govender, sound design by Ant Govender, set and prop design by Nicolene Steyn and fabulous under the sea inspired costumes by Kathy Singery.

The cast includes Ariel played by Chloe Marot from St. Mary’s DSG (last seen in Shrek and Annie); Sebastian is Khethukuthula Ngcobo (I.S.P.A) and Flounder is played by Azania Mavimbela (Crawford North Coast).

In a heartwarming full circle moment, Azania’s mother Sindi, a current drama teacher, reflected on her own experience as a participant in YPP’s 2009 production of Big River, directed by Themi Venturas. Her daughter Azania, who entered the project seventeen years later as a Junior performer in A Fairytale Christmas Carol, is a testament to the organization’s lasting influence. This poignant connection also highlights the profound impact of YPP’s programmes on the lives of its alumni who are giving back to their communities as arts educators.

Inspired by Hans Christian Andersens’ beloved fairy tale, and based on the classic animated Disney movie, The Little Mermaid Jr tells of a mermaid who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find true love.

Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colourful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr offers a fantastic creative opportunity for rich costumes and sets, as well as the chance to perform some of the best-known songs from the past 30 years. Songs include: “Under the Sea“; “Kiss the Girl“; and “Part of Your World“.

Written by Doug Wright, with music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater.

Tickets are through Webtickets here. Their first show is a special Relaxed Performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30 where theatre etiquette guidelines are relaxed and the performance is consciously calmed, where the auditorium lights are dimmed, but not dark and the audience meet the characters ahead of time. This Relaxed Performance is ideal for audience members with sensory sensitivities. For all performances, audiences are welcome to dress up as the cast.

Good to Know:

• Tickets: Webtickets -> click here to buy
• Their first show is a special Relaxed performance on Thursday 2 April at 2.30
• Scholars and pensioners 10% off any seats throughout.
• The show runs at 65 minutes – no interval
• Audiences can meet the stage characters after the show

BUY TICKETS HERE

CLICK HERE TO WIN TICKETS!

Familie Fest 2026 Brings Live Music and Family Fun to Hillcrest

Everything You Need to Know About Familie Fest 2026

Familie Fest arrives in Hillcrest for a full weekend of live music, family-friendly entertainment and relaxed festival energy, taking place on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 May 2026 at NU Driving Range.

Designed as an all-ages outdoor music festival, Familie Fest brings together South African artists, open space, activities for kids and adults, and a format that allows families and friend groups to spend the entire day together without feeling rushed.

Event Details

Date: Friday 29 & Saturday 30 May 2026
Venue: NU Driving Range Fields, Hillcrest
Time: From 10am daily
Age Restriction: All ages
Bar Area: Over 18s only

Tickets available via:
• Familie Fest Website
• Webtickets
• Utickets

Ticket Pricing

• Kids under 4: Free
• Kids 4–12: From R129
• Teens 13–17: From R145
• Adults: From R199 to R245

Group Ticket Specials

• Buy 5 tickets, get 1 free: R1,250
• Buy 9 tickets, get 1 free:  R2,100

Group tickets are limited and valid for adults or kids.

Camping add-ons are available separately and include access to a secure camp zone with toilets, showers, lighting and security.

Line-up (More to Be Announced)

The initial line-up includes a mix of established and popular South African acts:

• Francois van Coke
• Kurt Darren
• Van Pletzen
• Veranda Panda
• Appel

Friday features acoustic-focused sessions, while Saturday hosts the main acts. Additional artists will be announced closer to the event.

What to Expect

Familie Fest is structured as a full-day festival rather than an evening-only concert, with gates opening at 10am and activities running throughout the day and into the evening.

Across the festival grounds, attendees can expect:
• Live music performances
• A dedicated kids zone
• Arts and crafts activities
• Food and drink vendors
• Potjie competitions
• Access to the driving range
• Putt putt, go-karts and paintball
• Optional secure camping facilities

The layout allows families to spread out, relax and move between music, activities and rest areas at their own pace.

What You Can and Can’t Bring

Allowed:
Umbrellas, camp chairs, blankets, gazebos, bags, towels, baby gear.

Not Allowed:
Cooler boxes, outside food and drink, weapons, fireworks, sound systems, pets, sports or play equipment, bikes or braais.

Camp Zone Only:
Cooler boxes, food and drink, and braais are permitted within the designated camping area.

Why Familie Fest Works

Familie Fest positions itself as a genuinely inclusive festival, catering to families with young children, teens, and adults who want to enjoy live music without the pressure of a late-night-only format. With space to move, activities beyond the main stage, and a line-up that appeals across age groups, it offers a different kind of festival experience for the KZN calendar.

For families looking to introduce kids to live music, groups planning a social weekend, or anyone wanting an outdoor festival that runs at a comfortable pace, Familie Fest ticks all the right boxes.