Johannesburg to KwaZulu-Natal – Midlands Meander

WHY on earth? I know, I know! But, here’s why. The Midlands Meander – possibly the most enchanting amble a car-carried traveller could hope to experience. Stop number one: Notties Draught. Uh huh, craft beer in an old English pub – what’s not to love? I’ll tell you – nada. Love all of it, it’s that good. And if you have five too many, kip there, they’re a fully-fledged hotel!

It was a tough one behind the wheel after that. Don’t think that, stop it, it’s not what you’re thinking. I’ll explain. Initially we were thinking, “Hmm, have a beer, then maybe go right and chow some tasty goat’s cheese just down the road”. Then, after a fat chat with some folks at Notties, we were all, “Ooh, we should go left, through Fort Nottingham and enjoy the views of the stunning Midlands from there, but then we’ll miss the goats!” The goats won, but my point remains – you need TIME to fully enjoy this Meander. I’m talking a minimum of 3 days.

About that cheese place “down the road”, let me now add, “then up a mountain!” Brace yourself for this climb, especially if your car isn’t wearing its wellies. But the top – SO worth it!

This little farm stall is fascinating. Surrounded by goats queuing up for a good cheesing, we entered the tiny stall to find a platter of fresh, gooey cheese, jars of interesting preserves, melba toast and an array of (SA) vino that Mister Platter himself would nod at. The idea: come up and picnic. Bring your own if you like, just support the stall in some way, and enjoy their lush lawns and warming views. For Easter, they’re even going to have live music and an Easter egg hunt!

We selected our favourites and, rustling brown paper bag in hand, hopped back in the car to continue our expedition with the #bestpadkosever – don’t you just love your car?

Further along the Meander is a well-known spot called Piggly Wiggly’s. It’s well known for a reason – the assortment of artisan and boutique stalls spread out around a putt-putt green. We arrived just too late to get in on the action, but that’s ok, because it freed us up for the next big stop.

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