Climate and history
The midlands is a summer rainfall area that supports predominantly summer grassland with indigenous semi-evergreen yellowwood forests occurring in protected habitats. Blessed with abundant grazing and water this fertile region produces nearly 50% of the farming income for the province. Farming activities include dairy, beef studs and a stable of top race horse breeding and training establishments. Commercial timber growing has dramatically increased the area under pine and gum forests. The climate is pleasant for most of the year with hottest period falling between January and March. Winter days are mild to warm and nights crisp to cold. Snow can fall during winter.

Kwa-Zulu Natal Midlands Meander - South Africa's Premiere Arts and Crafts Route
In 1985 an eclectic collection of artists and crafters, shopkeepers, restauranteurs and hoteliers launched the Kwa-Zulu Natal Midlands Meander which has since become the South Africa's premier arts and crafts route. The Meander route winds through some of the most pristine countryside in southern Africa and incorporates a number of picturesque villages and towns between Hilton, a quaint village just north of Pietermaritzburg, and Hidcote a farming hamlet outside Mooi River. It extends from Rietvlei and Curry's Post in the east to the lush Dargle Valley and Fort Nottingham in the west. The meander is steeped in unique history and cultural diversity. It offers dozens of captivating ports of call including a fascinating mix of shops and galleries as well as historical and environmental sites. Restaurants along the route offer a variety of options from hearty country fare to gourmet delights. Unearth treasures in art studios and galleries. Discover herb and flower farms. Visit delightful tea gardens, designer breweries, wine barns, and country pubs. Meet the artists first hand. There is nothing else like quite like it in South Africa. Visit www.midlandsmeander.co.za for further details

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