The last thing you want to do after a busy week is more planning. So, we’ve done the homework for you. We’ve designed the perfect day at The Old Mushroom Farm to spend with friends and family on your weekend trip to the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
The KZN Midlands area has a rich history in arts and culture and is well known for its picturesque natural landscapes. For years, the famous Midlands Meander Association has identified stops in the area for visitors to explore, highlighting independent creators and their work. The Midlands is well known as a hotspot of creatives, crafters, and culinarians. At The Old Mushroom Farm, we resonate with the area’s ethos of putting artisans on the map. We've got the ultimate family day out planned for your weekend in the KZN Midlands.
The Old Mushroom Farm is a hub where makers have set up workshops and studios where they both produce and sell their wares. There are two event spaces where musicians and performing artists frequently produce concerts- further diversifying the creative offering in the area. A bakery and two eateries keep us coming back for more in the genre of culinary arts. The venue is surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes, into which you can escape via walking trails or simply letting the eye trace the countryside scenery. And all this is under a further layer of architectural interest.
As the name subtly hints, The Old Mushroom Farm was once a site of mycelial propagation for commercial agricultural purposes- growing white button mushrooms by the ton. With the mushroom-growing business gone, the buildings stood empty and dilapidated. The Old Mushroom Farm as we know it today is thanks to a vision to transform the unused farm buildings into people-oriented spaces- an establishment for artisans to work in community, a retreat for visitors from the pressure of urban living, and a point of access to outdoor experiences.
A perfect day at The Old Mushroom Farm would unfold as follows:
Food First
When out for the day with the family, its important not to let hangry get in the way of fun. This won't be a problem. Start with a classic Proudly South African breakfast at Home Slice Cafe, accompanied by world-class coffee and friendly dog visits.
Let the kids loose at the Children’s Play Area
There is fun to be had for the whole family. The kids will be entertained in an open grassy area where they can burn off some energy on the trampoline, slide, jungle gym, climbing logs, mini-zipline, and with Grandpa’s supervision the waterslide.
Peruse the Shops
Starting at the top of the central walkway you’ll find Anke in Onyx Rain making gourmet chocolates from scratch. Disclaimer: not many have the strength to resist her incredible confection.
Rock Paper Scissors shares the chocolate tunnel, where Pip has curated a collection of contemporary South African brands. You’ll find her at the back of the shop at her studio-table sewing kids' plush toys.
In the tunnel opposite, you’ll find Lee making beaded jewellery in Cosmic Crystals. Her shop, with the most dazzling collection of gemstones, is always bustling with friends coming to visit her for a chat.
Between shops, be sure to look up and absorb the interesting architecture all around you.
Can you spot the themes in the architect, Nick Crooks’, style?
The next down is Nude Soap, where you’ll catch Karen stirring a batch of natural handmade soaps. Follow your nose to pick out your favourite essential oil-scented bath accompaniments.
Opposite Nude is Midlands Books and Collectables - a treasure trove of pre-loved books and rare collectable coins. Robert and Adam are bound to be chatting about their latest finds, and sorting through boxes of literature selling for a bargain.
The next tunnel down is the Makers Market - a shared space where artisans produce and sell their wares. Join an afternoon creative session where you can learn to make beaded jewellery or paint a plant pot.
The next door down is Alkaline Design’s mini-factory and shop. Alkaline produces an exquisite range of designer homeware from their tunnel- shipping across the country, and shoppable from their shop front.
Around the corner through the bright yellow door, you’ll enter Sally’s - another mini factory but this time making delicious and healthy granola, trail mix and active nutrition bars.
A breath of fresh air
Pull the kids off the slide for a walk through the Community Food Garden. A food-focused green space with an abundance of seasonal vegetables and fruit that guests can harvest themselves for a nominal fee. Experience seeing your food in its growing form (have you ever seen a potato plant??), and harvesting it fresh from the soil for dinner.
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite in the garden, it's time for lunch.
Exploring Coffee Country Cafe does the best wood-fire pizzas in town. Choose from their selection of gourmet toppings and enjoy your food overlooking the incredible view of Albert Falls Dam from the veranda.
Walk it off
Stretch your legs with a stroll down to the farm dam (+- 400m). If you’re feeling energetic you can do the full walking trail of about 5km around the farm’s perimeter. The route will take you through picturesque farmlands and past the indigenous forest, where we are rehabilitating the natural bush.
Catch a show
As the afternoon rolls in, catch a show in Playhouse 5. Keep an eye on the lineup to see what live music or theatre performance is on show. We have had some world-renowned acts perform on our stage.
Just stay over already
At this stage, you won’t want to do anything else- the least of which drive. Check into one of the Boutique Apartments and spend the night in the countryside at The Old Mushroom Farm.
That concludes your perfect day, spent with friends and family, at The Old Mushroom Farm in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. A unique destination with the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and charm. Whether you’re exploring the unique shops, harvesting fresh produce, or simply soaking in the scenery, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your family's stay today and make your next weekend getaway in the KZN Midlands one to remember.
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