In the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands of South Africa, reconnect with the beauty of pastoral living. The town of Howick bursts with natural wonders, artistic creations, and people dedicated to their crafts and callings.
GO
Make your way to this unassuming farming community an hour and a half from Durban and remind yourself of a simpler time.
SEE
Lions River Polo Club hosts tournaments year round. Be entertained by this fast-paced and sometimes brutal sport favoured by farmers from all over the province.
Marvel at the legendary Howick Falls. Flowing from a height of 95 metres, this impressive waterfall is one of the highest in the country. In local Zulu culture, it’s known as ‘KwaNogqaza’, which translates to the ‘Place of the Tall One’. In the pool below, a serpentine water god named the ‘Inkanyamba’ is said to dwell.
Along the R103, the Nelson Mandela Capture Site commemorates Mandela’s arrest here before he spent 27 years in prison. Appreciate an artistic tribute to South Africa’s first democratically-elected president at this moving installation and museum.
DO
Take a sailboat out to Midmar Dam and spend the day swimming and picnicking. This is the location of the world-famous Midmar Mile, an open-water swimming race that draws thousands of competitors every year.
Sightsee along the Midlands Meander, a remarkable area rich with hidden gems. This arts route was established in the 1980s, showcasing the many talented creatives of the district. Groundcover is an iconic feature along the way. The artisans here are specialists in all things leather; boots, bags, and sheepskin slippers. Move on for coffee and lunch at Terbodore down the road, the renowned roastery that has its roots right in the area.
Leave the beaten track for Howick, and get lost in the slow pace and abounding creativity of this community.
Please sign in to leave a comment