A Hidden Mountain Escape: Weekend at Giants Cup Wilderness Reserve

Tucked deep within the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Drakensberg lies a secluded gem — Giants Cup Wilderness Reserve. If you’re looking to truly switch off, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a peaceful weekend away from the city, this is the kind of place that quietly steals your heart.

The Journey There 🚗

Our adventure began with a scenic drive through the Southern Drakensberg, winding deeper into the mountains toward what felt like a hidden escape. The final stretch took us slightly off-road — definitely a route best tackled with a high-clearance vehicle — but it only added to the sense of adventure.

Along the way, we were greeted by a family of baboons casually crossing the road. That moment alone made it clear: we were officially in the wilderness.

Our Stay: Duckbay Cottage 🏡

As we approached Duckbay Cottage, the views immediately took our breath away. Perched on the edge of a tranquil lake and surrounded by mountains and trees, the setting felt completely untouched and serene.

The cottage comfortably sleeps four, with two cosy bedrooms. Inside, you’ll find:

• A spacious kitchen fully equipped for self-catering
• A warm family lounge area
• A fireplace with wood provided (perfect for chilly mountain evenings)

This is a self-catering stay, so come prepared with your own food and drinks — but rest assured, the kitchen has everything you need to cook up a proper meal.

Outdoor Living at Its Best 🔥

Step outside and you’re instantly immersed in nature. Just a short walk from the cottage leads you to the lake, where a braai stand awaits — ideal for relaxed afternoons with family and friends.

The area is also a dream for bird lovers. With a birding book in hand, you can wander through the reserve spotting a variety of species in their natural habitat.

Exploring the Reserve 🌿

One of the highlights of our weekend was exploring the reserve itself. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are trails suited to all levels.

We set out on a hike and were rewarded with:

• Incredible mountain views
• A refreshing stream perfect for a cool swim on a hot day
• A magical encounter with a herd of buck grazing nearby

There are also several high points along the trails where you can pause, catch your breath, and soak in the sweeping scenery.

Wildlife & Special Moments 🐾

Back at the cottage, the magic didn’t stop. Sitting on the verandah, we took in the stillness of the surroundings — and were lucky enough to spot a jackal darting past. It’s moments like these that remind you just how special this place is.

Lake Activities & Extras 🎣

Duckbay Cottage also comes with access to a small boat right on the lake. For a daily fee, you can head out onto the water and even try your hand at fly fishing (just remember to bring your fishing license).

Another unique feature of the reserve is its trout hatchery, which you can explore during your stay — a great little addition to the overall experience.

Good to Know 📶

• WiFi is available in the cottage if needed
• The reserve is not pet-friendly due to the abundance of wildlife

Final Thoughts 💭

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a trip with friends, or simply a quiet break from the noise of everyday life, Giants Cup Wilderness Reserve offers the perfect setting. It’s peaceful, scenic, and allows you to truly disconnect and recharge.

Ratings ⭐

• Location: 10/10
• Scenery: 10/10
• Accommodation Comfort: 9/10
• Activities: 9/10
• Overall Experience: 9.5/10

Ready to experience it for yourself?
👉 Book your stay here: https://www.giantscup.co.za/

Click here to see some of our fav shots of Giants Cup Wilderness Reserve

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

This Is Your Sign to Book a Glamping Getaway on the South Coast

If you’ve been craving a break that reconnects you with nature — without sacrificing comfort — then Kingfisher Lakeside Retreat may be just what you’re looking for!

From the moment you arrive, the air is alive with song. Birds fill the daytime hours, while frogs and crickets create a soothing soundtrack once the sun sets. It’s peaceful, grounding, and instantly slows you down.

Location & Setting

Located only 2hours away from Durban, tucked along the South Coast shores of Trafalgar Beach, Kingfisher Lakeside Retreat is perfectly positioned for those who want the best of both bush and beach.

Surrounded by indigenous bush, the accommodation is just a five-minute walk to a private stretch of pristine Blue Flag beach, with not a drop of litter in sight. It truly feels untouched and exclusive.

You’re far enough away to feel secluded, yet close enough to explore everything the South Coast has to offer.

Accommodation & Rooms

The property offers:

• 4 luxury safari-style glamping tents (2 with plunge pools)

• 1 cottage (with a pool)

We stayed in the Falcon Tent, the most sought-after unit — and it’s easy to see why.
It offers maximum privacy, breathtaking views, and its own plunge pool overlooking a tranquil freshwater lake.

Inside, the tent includes:

• 1 queen-size bed

• 2 single beds (sleeps 4 comfortably)

• A shared bathroom with a stunning clawfoot bathtub

• An indoor/outdoor shower

Outside, you’ll find:

• A fully equipped kitchenette (gas stove, fridge, microwave, kettle, toaster)

• Dining area

• Verandah with an outdoor lounge set

• A private plunge pool to cool down

• Sun loungers and chairs to sip your coffee from

• Views over the lake that make the mornings and evenings unforgettable

The linen is crisp, clean, and hotel-quality — always a detail I appreciate.

Food & Self-Catering

This is a self-catering stay, but honestly, they’ve thought of everything.

Each unit comes equipped with:

• A full kitchenette

• A Weber braai

• Dining and outdoor eating spaces

Aside from food, clothes (optional for naturalists 😉), bug spray, and beach towels — you won’t need much else.

Nature, Atmosphere & Wildlife

This is truly a nature lover’s paradise.

Before we even reached the resort, we were welcomed by bushbuck at the gates.
From our deck alone, we spotted:

• Kingfishers

• Weavers

• Swallows swooping past before roosting nearby

• A water monitor

• Vervet monkeys

• Bats

Birdwatchers will be in absolute heaven here.

There’s also a spectacular shared viewing deck overlooking the ocean, complete with a built-in hammock — the perfect place to pause, breathe, and soak it all in.

Activities & Amenities

There’s more to do at Kingfisher Lakeside Resort than you might expect:

• Swimming

• Private beach access

• Swings and a jungle gym for kids

• Paddling and pedal boats on the dam

• Endless space to walk, read, relax, and simply be

You could easily stay on-site for your entire visit without ever needing to get in the car again.

Alternatively, if you’re keen to explore, the nearby area offers:

• Coffee shop hopping

• Farm stalls

• Scenic drives

• The world’s smallest desert

• Local South Coast gems waiting to be discovered

Connectivity & Comfort

• WiFi is available

• No TVs in the units — perfect for a digital detox

• 1x Fan provided to keep you cool in the KZN heat

It strikes the ideal balance between comfort and unplugging.

Who This Stay Is Perfect For

• Couples seeking a romantic, reconnecting getaway

• Families (sleeps 4 and has kid-friendly activities)

• Nature lovers & birdwatchers

• Naturalists — Falcon Tent offers maximum privacy

• Anyone craving bush-meets-beach tranquillity

Worth noting: as you exit the private access beach opening, there’s a nude beach to the right and a standard beach to the left, allowing guests to choose what suits them best.

Final Thoughts

This South Coast escape is a rare find — a place where luxury, nature, and simplicity meet effortlessly.

Whether you’re floating in the plunge pool, listening to birdsong from your deck, or wandering down to an untouched stretch of beach, it’s the kind of stay that leaves you feeling deeply rested.

A true South Coast hidden gem — and one I’d return to in a heartbeat.

Give them a follow:

• Facebook – @kingfisherlakesideretreat
• Instagram – @kingfisherlakeside
• TikTok – @kingfisherlakeside

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR STAY