Warm Up to Winter Fun

Unleash your creativity, challenge yourself outdoors, and indulge in the region’s culinary delights. When it comes to the chilly seasons, it’s tempting to hibernate with a warm cup of tea, a cosy blanket, and a favourite show. But winter has so much more to offer! From outdoor adventures to creative pursuits, there are plenty of ways to stay active and engaged. We’ve rounded up some fun activities and hobbies to get you out of hibernation...

Fireside Chats

The scene is set—a crackling fire with a hot toddy in hand, a chilly, but clear countryside night, and a few friends keeping the cold at bay with warm conversations and insights. Come and join us as we sit with four local men and hear about their treasured memories, dreams, and lessons. John Roff Greatest role model: I grew up a bit later than usual (and parts of me still are, I suppose). As a...

The Nkosi Nursery

Meet Alex March, a gardening expert with a passion for all things indigenous. The first tree name Alex March learned when studying horticulture was Erythrina lysistemon. The second was Citharexylum quadrangulare (a.k.a Fiddlewood). However, the indigenous coral tree had more appeal, and in a short time Alex became, by his own admission, an ‘indigenous nut’. “Trying to get my tongue around the botanical names took a while, but after a few months, I realised that...

Brunch O’ Clock

From cosy corners to garden escapes, we’ve rounded up the ultimate brunch destinations where good food meets great atmosphere. Ready to discover your next favourite spot? Piggly Wiggly Coffee Shop Located in the heart of the Midlands, is your go-to spot for great coffee, delicious food, and a relaxed countryside atmosphere. Guests at Piggly Wiggly Coffee Shop can savour fresh salads, enjoy a leisurely brunch and indulge in sweet treats. Coffee lovers can relish expertly...

A Mountaineering Getaway

Safety while staying in the mountains is essential, so before you head out for a berg adventure, here are a few tips and recommendations of places to stay.  Living in the Midlands has many perks, one in particular is the majestic Drakensberg Mountain range, which is just a stone’s throw away for a quick getaway. The berg offers ample places to explore and to stay, whether indoors or outdoors. You’ll never run out of things...

Making a Splash

Sports play a big role in our community, and a husband-and-wife duo has pioneered a series of kids’ canoe races to help local kids find adventure. Meet Rachel and Kyle Friedenstein, a dedicated couple who saw an opportunity to continue growing a sport in the community. When the pandemic struck in 2020 and school sports were cancelled, a few friends asked if Kyle could coach their children in paddling on their farm in Curry’s Post....

Sculpted Midlands Stories

Art comes in many forms, and sculpture is a medium where thoughts are given weight and emotion is cast in shadow and light, bringing ideas to life in solid form. Let’s take a look at a few iconic and thought-provoking pieces. The Dlamini Collection  For the past 20 years, these figurines have been sold at the Zulu Lulu Gallery, located in Piggly Wiggly. They are ceramic, sculpted from clay by Tim Dlamini and Tim Buthelezi....

Meet the Chef + Easter Recipes!

This Easter, indulge in a culinary adventure with our local chef JJ Pretorius! He shares two delectable dishes to make at home, and don’t worry, there is something sweet in the mix too! You’re probably familiar with the esteemed Fordoun Farm in Nottingham Road. It had humble beginnings as a dairy farm in the mid-1800s and was converted into a hotel and spa, successfully run and managed by the Bates family for over 20 years....

10 Things We Love About The Midlands

In the month of love, we highlight our gratitude for one another, but let’s not forget about the lovely area we live in. Everyone here at FabMags has listed what we love about The Midlands … I hope you take a moment to make your list.   The view  It might seem odd to some, but it’s the small, simple pleasures that make the Midlands so special. The sight of rolling green hills dotted with...

Local Cuties

The Midlands’ idyllic mountain vistas and countryside are home to a cast of lovable characters—from roaming cows and grazing horses to cuddly dogs. These local cuties, wild and tame, make the Midlands the charming destination it is. We’d like to introduce you to a few of these furry friends, and hopefully, inspire your next Midlands getaway.   Get Your Alpaca Fix Endeavour Alpacas is an Alpaca sanctuary in Curry’s Post. Harry and Prince were the...