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TThe Midlands have become a quick escape for Durban travellers, as well as travellers from far. If you are in the mood for a week long break this could be just the place for you. Just an hour and a half away from the city of Durban, the Midlands offers an artsy escape tranquil surrounds. A drive to this beautiful area can turn any family weekend into one filled with fun and adventure. Here are some top things to do while in the area:
Piggly Wiggly
Where: 1 Dargle Rd Lions River 3265
Contact: 033 234 2911
Piggly Wiggly is one of the most popular spots in the Midlands. Once a small farm, Piggly Wiggly has transformed into a shopping experience for all ages. Visit Zulu Lulu Art House that offers ceramic painting for children and adults, or select a blank pottery item to turn it into a masterpiece. There is also a second-hand book shop where one can get their favourite read on a budget. There are some eateries that offer great breakfast and lunch options.
Did You Know?
SSome of the greatest birding spots, bass fishing, trout farms, cheese farms, breweries, art galleries, coffee shops, guest houses and farms are found in this area of South Africa.
JJunction Village Centre
Where: Main Rd, Nottingham Road, 3280, South Africa
Contact: 033 266 6338 or email info@nottiesjunction.co.za
Junction Village Centre has 16 unique shops to keep a family entertained the whole day. The centre was an old dairy farm in the 1960s, that converted into a restaurant. Chocoholics will appreciate Chocolate Heaven that serves the most decadent Belgian chocolates with proudly South African fillings. Try their chocolate dipping experience.
5 cool activities in the KZN Midlands
CCulamoya Chimes
Where: Lidgetton, KwaZulu-Natal
Contact: 083 627 6195
Culamoya Chimes, run by husband and wife duo Frik and Lola Haupt, creates distinct chimes. The pair makes each chime differently and have names for each one. They started in 1988 in Durban but moved to the Midlands in 1997. Booking is essential.
Nelson Mandela Capture Site
Where: Mandela Capture Site, R103, Howick, 3290
Contact: 079 971 3074
Nelson Mandela Capture Site, which commemorates his arrest by police at the site on August 5 1962, was originally a small bricked area with a plaque. However, to mark the 50th anniversary, a steel structure depicting Mandela was installed in 2012, along with a visitor’s centre. Artist Marco Cianfanelli designed the 35m sculpture and this is the perfect location to get those Instagram-worthy travel shots.
Nottingham Road
Nottingham Road is known as the “heart” of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands due to picturesque places, accommodation, adrenaline-fuelled adventure sports, historic landmarks and arts and crafts. Try fly fishing at Kleinbosch Estate, rejuvenate at Brookdale Day Spa or go on a Roman Baths Hike, the choice is up to you. Also a visit to the famous Nottingham Road Hotel to hear their ghost story, which will leave you spooked.
There is much to do, see and enjoy in this beautiful part of the world. Whilst the Midlands encompasses just about everything between Hilton and Mooi River, you can spend so much time in the greater province of KwaZulu-Natal to experience South Africa’s vibrant culture, city life and scenic beauty.
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