You would have heard in the news about the current Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak in South Africa and wondered what it really means for you. After all, many of us aren’t farmers. We don’t own cattle, sheep or goats, and the issue can feel distant. But the truth is, what’s happening on our farms right now affects far more than just agriculture. It touches food prices, local jobs, tourism, events, and the wellbeing of...
This season, the Granny Mouse culinary artists invite you to bring sun-drenched magic into your own kitchen with dishes inspired by the heart and soul of their kitchen. SMOKED SALMON TARTARE with goats’ cheese caprini, capers, dried cranberries and herbs served with a garlic melba INGREDIENTS: 80g smoked salmon 30g goats’ cheese caprini 4g capers 6g dried cranberries 2g of chopped herbs (rosemary/thyme/parsley) salt and pepper to taste bread x 2 slices (any bread can...
Autumn in the Midlands looks like colourful landscapes, long lunches, and unhurried days – Easter brights flow into resplendent autumn leaves! One of the newest photo experiences to emerge is centred on a simple idea: slowing down, taking a seat, and enjoying the view. In the gardens at Pleasant Places, the Mbali Swing is a carefully considered photo opportunity that blends countryside charm with a sense of play. Suspended against sweeping views and framed by...
Netherwood Farm, Nottingham Road has always been far more than a working cattle farm. Many exciting developments and renovations are now complete, and the farm is poised for a great year of events, from exhibitions at the Bull Ring, to farm-to-table experiences. There will be an expanded calendar of community-focused activities with cosy accommodation available onsite. Under the stewardship of Dr Rob Kleinloog, a former cardiothoracic surgeon, the farm has become a unique fusion of...
If you’re tired of the same store-bought Easter eggs and want to get a little creative this year, here is an easy recipe to make your own bespoke Easter eggs. While this is a simple recipe to get started, the possibilities are endless to make it even more delicious. You can fill the eggs with a chocolate mousse, ganache, peanut butter, nuts, or any sweet treat of your desire. Or, if you like it the...
Here are your local restaurants serving up good food and delicious brews with picturesque views. A Recipe for Relaxation Tumble Downs Café & Restaurant is situated along Curry’s Post Road, in Howick. The original horse stables on the old farmstead have been renovated into an open, free-flowing dining space without pretence and formality. This country restaurant, with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, allows diners to relax and enjoy the beauty of the unspoilt surroundings while...
Discover a world of exploration with Beth Kelly. The Beginning Fable started as a small café idea I had that followed me everywhere I went. It was my “one day I will…” project. In 2016, my now husband, James, encouraged me to just start. The old farm sheds seemed like the perfect place. A lot bigger than I had planned, but it just felt like home. The Inspiration I have been very much inspired by...
We asked three local wedding cake makers for their predictions for wedding cakes this year. If you’re planning your wedding, this might give you some tips and inspiration, too! Janine Ehlers Whisked Cakery The Beginning I started baking as a part-time hobby in 2020 while I was still working in finance. In 2021, I made the leap to pursue baking full-time. What truly inspires me is seeing the joy a cake can bring to someone’s...
South Africa’s longest-running and most beloved music festival is turning 35, and Splashy Fen is marking the milestone with one of its most exciting artist announcements yet. From 2-6 April 2026, the iconic festival will once again transform the Southern Drakensberg into a music-lover’s paradise, celebrating 35 years of unforgettable memories, world-class live music, and community magic. Today, Splashy Fen ups the ante with the phase 2 announcement of a powerful new wave of top...
After months of intense judging, the results are in, and the Coffee Colab – the Non-Profit Organisation that was created to recognise and reward KZN’s top coffee shops – has a trophy waiting for the province’s top three coffee shops as well as its best barista and best Coffee To-Go outlet! In addition, the top regional finalists in seven regions across KZN will also be presented with awards for their contribution to the province’s coffee...