Besides all the great things to do at The Old Mushroom Farm, there is lots to do and see on the Karkloof Road stretch of the Midlands Meander while visiting the KZN Midlands.
In our opinion, these are the top 10 best things to do in the Karkloof when staying at The Old Mushroom Farm accommodation when you need an outing.
Karkloof Falls (The turnoff is 2km from The Old Mushroom Farm, and the falls is another 6m of dirt road.) Take a short drive out to the viewpoint of the stunning 105m high waterfall. Karkloof Falls is even higher than Howick Falls (at 93m)! We recommend driving all the way to the end of the scenic picnic and braai area and having a swim in the river. You'll get to a boom gate at the turnoff from the Karkloof Road where you will need to pay an entrance fee. But this is well worth it as the view is spectacular and the grounds + ablutions well maintained.
2. Karkloof Canopy Tour (14 minute drive from The Old Mushroom Farm.) A fun, adventurous outing - great for a group activity. A series of ziplines gives you a unique perspective of the stunning indigenous Karkloof forest. Be escorted through the forest canopy by trained guides as you slide from tree to tree. Tours run at specific time slots, so it is important to book in advance.
 3. Mountain Bike Trails (6 minute drive from The Old Mushroom Farm.) A world-class MTB trail network lies on our doorstep. Trails of varying distance and difficulty give you endless routes to explore on your bike. You will need a trail pass from Karkloof Country Club before you head out.
4. Karkloof Country Club (6 minute drive from The Old Mushroom Farm.) Enjoy the network of cycling, running, and walking trails, or make use of the tennis and squash courts. There is also a Café and Bar!
5. Benvie Garden (30 minute drive from The Old Mushroom Farm.) An enchanting, historic, 70 acre garden in the Karkloof Mistbelt belonging to the Geekie family. Wander through the manicured garden paths and happen upon ancient trees, green meadows and peaceful groves. We recommend packing a picnic and laying a rug down in one of the meadows you come across.
6. Karkloof Horse Adventures (3 minute drive from The Old Mushroom Farm).
Explore the beautiful Karkloof Valley on horseback, with our neighbours, Katina and Echo as your guides. Choose between a 1 hour amble, 2 hour adventure ride, or 3 hour picnic ride. Beginners are welcome. Booking is essential.
7. Grey Mare’s Tale Hike (12 minute drive from The Old Mushroom Farm).
Starting from Bushwillow Caravan Park, the trail takes you up a steep hill, through the breathtaking indigenous Karkloof forest. The trail opens up to the plateau, leading you along the ridge to the top of the waterfall. Grey Mare's waterfall is a stream which flows off an impressive sheer cliff drop. The views from the top are spectacular- but please take care when near the edge. A donation is asked at the Bushwillow campsite.
8. Karkloof Farmers Market (1 minute drive from The Old Mushroom Farm). A perfect outing for a Saturday morning right on the neighbouring farm (also home to La Petit France cheese). Grab breakfast and peruse the market stalls. If you can't make it to the market on a Saturday, La Petit France Cafe is also open during the week.
9. Bird Hide at Karkloof Conservation Centre (7 minute drive from The Old Mushroom Farm). For the birders among us, The Karkloof Conservation Centre is a must. Boasting two bird hides with a rich diversity of birdlife abound. Spot over 190 bird varieties, including all 3 of SA's Crane species. Pack your binoculars and a picnic and enjoy the peaceful surrounds.
10. Hikes and rock climbing in WESSA, uMngeni Valley Nature Reserve (6 minute drive from The Old Mushroom Farm). A nature reserve in our backyard with magnificent views and opportunities for wildlife sightings. This hidden gem has a natural rock wall set up for experienced climbers (with your own equipment). Explore multiple hiking route options which hug the edge of the uMngeniValley. Walk/ run through grasslands, bushveld and down to the uMngeni River in the valley.
Delve into The Old Mushroom Farm experience- and beyond! During your holiday at The Old Mushroom Farm Accommodation, we recommend exploring the vibrant offerings along the Karkloof Road. Witness the beauty of Karkloof Falls, get the adrenalin pumping at the Karkloof Canopy Tour, and weave your way through MTB trails nearby. Benvie Garden's enchantment, the freedom of horseback rides, and the buzz of Karkloof Farmers Market await. Soak up the natural environment in the bird hides and see if you can spot the giraffe in WESSA. These experiences, easily accessible from TOMF, create a rich tapestry of nature, adventure, and local charm.
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