Cultivating Curiosity

Nikki Brighton brings a special sparkle to the Midlands. She is a beloved resident of Howick (a place she believes is the centre of the universe), a “locavore”, an “invasivore”, a food activist, a writer, a teacher and the author of her latest book, Wild About Weeds: An Introduction to Uncultivated Food. The book is a product of her deeply-rooted love of and connection to nature, slow food living, foraging and their important interrelations. It...

Our Countryside Chefs

Discover the maestros behind the delicious dishes at a few of our local restaurants. We chat with these chefs about their career journeys, what inspires them, and their favourite meals to cook.   From cute coffee shops and quaint bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels, the Midlands is never short of scrumptious food. There is something for all tastes, but who are the culinary masters that curate our sumptuous plates? We celebrate three of our...

Peace, Quiet and Relaxation: River Bend Farm

As you arrive at River Bend Farm, the river below, surrounding trees and sound of nature relax you immediately. The farm is situated on the Midlands Meander, nestled at the end of the road on a bluff overlooking the Lions River as it meanders in a horseshoe around the farm. The views overlooking the river and forests are spectacular and the country air is refreshing.   We drove the car right up to our room...

Beyond the Boundaries of Taste: Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine

The Midlands food scene would not be the same without the renowned Jackie Cameron. From putting Hartford House on the national culinary map to writing international award-winning cookbooks, she has many accolades under her belt that earn her the title of the best of the best. However, one of her most significant contributions to the local area is without a doubt her passion for sharing her talent and skill with aspiring chefs at the Jackie...

Range Rover Sport: Perfectly at Home in the Country

Sporting SUVs have come a long way, but the Range Rover Sport arguably started the trend. We spent the day with the Range Rover Sport D350 from Land Rover Pietermaritzburg and came away with a feeling of pure contentment.   As days in the Midlands go, this was a good one.   We generally never need any excuse to head into the Midlands. As an ex-Pietermaritzburg boy, nearly every weekend was spent meandering the roads...

Just Married!

We celebrate several local couples who decided to tie the knot right here in the Midlands – a picture-perfect place! Read more as they share details from their day, from dress to decor.   BRITTNEY & ROAN McCABE (Photos by Laura Jean Harris)   Which venue did you choose and why? I had always dreamed of getting married on the farm I was lucky enough to grow up on. Everdon Estate is an avocado farm...

Make Yourself at Home

The Olde Duck is a cosy restaurant run by Jeannine Bonsma, who started it 20 years ago, sold it, and then rebought it in 2014. She has partnered with her daughter, Bronwyn Penny, who bought into the business in 2020.   The restaurant is situated on a quaint working dairy farm, Marlin Farm, in Underberg. Whether you are just passing through for a snack or enjoying a delicious lunch with friends or family, this is...

A Home for All Ages

Life in St John’s Village Lifestyle & Retirement Country Estate, with its slow pace, friendly community and natural beauty, offers all the charm and appeal of an idyllic KZN Midlands way of life. The farm-like environment, lush green spaces, clean air and scenic vistas backdrop this peaceful sanctuary.   Cycling trails, three dams, communal allotment gardens and a host of indoor and outdoor activities enhance this easy country lifestyle. Adults enjoy weekend walks or cycle...

Be One with Nature

Sleeping under the open sky, swimming beneath a waterfall, and forging new friendships, this experience promises both physical challenges and enduring memories.   The Drakensberg is one of those places where people lose their souls, not in a negative way, but in the sense that they let go, find themselves, and tend to always return. The mountains are fortresses of solitude and it is an incredible experience exploring their vast lands.   If you haven’t...

Legends & Lore

The Midlands area has a long, rich history, with some buildings dating back to the 1800s. So, it is no surprise that myths, folklores and ghost stories are tied to many sites within the small towns. We dive deep into two popular myths that have been contested for decades by Midlands residents. Whether you’re a sceptic or a believer, why not read more and make up your own mind?   The Howick Falls Monster Part...