The Midlands Forest Lodge

The Midlands Forest Lodge

Description

An estate under the same ownership as Caversham Mill 3km down the road, Midlands Forest Lodge is perched high up on the edge of luscious green hills and slopes. This tranquil and secluded hillside retreat lives up to its name by bordering on pristine indigenous forest where fauna and flora abound and a natural sanctuary to numerous species of birds exists. At an altitude of 1340m, one can survey the unspoilt beauty of the Midlands valley from one of 12 well appointed suites.  Utmost care has been taken in making the cosy log cabins blend harmoniously with nature. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the escarpment or, for the more adventurous, explore the forest with its towering giant yellowwood trees. Accommodation Two different styles of accommodation are available at Midlands Forest Lodge. The first consists of 10 double rooms in timber chalets raised on stilts.  Each double room has a king size bed, bathroom en suite with shower, basin, toilet, and a small lounge area and wooden balcony. The second style consists of 2 self catering chalets (each chalet sleeps a max of 4 people).  The first bedroom in the chalet has a king bed, and the second bedroom has two single beds.  The kitchenette is small but adequate, with fridge, microwave, small 2 plate stove, kettle, toaster and other necessities.  The two bathrooms are en suite each with shower, basin and toilet.  There is a small lounge/dining area and a lovely wooden balcony. These log chalets provide a perfect place to contemplate natures beauty in its simplicity, to breathe in the scent of the woods and pure mountain air.

Attractions

Revel in cool peace and quiet by trailing through the beautiful indigenous forest. Midlands Forest Lodge also offers you fantastic birding opportunities with rare sightings of Forest Canary, Greater Double Collared Sunbird, Brown Headed (Cape) Parrot, African Harrier-Hawk and White-starred Robin.

For children 12 years and younger there is a jungle jim. A games room is also available offering table tennis, darts and a pool table.

Meandering

Whether you're in search of historical churches, tasty home-made produce or simply a small gift for a friend, the Midlands Meander has the answer. All you have to do is take a drive on the well maintained, easy navigable roads and you can "experience the country at its best". Experiences range from being pampered at a Spa, cheese-making, micro-brewing and handcrafts to woodwork, pottery, weaving, iron-work, glassware and furniture in the arts and craft line. For those who are inclined to the less energetic country pursuits, you can spread your picnic blanket in a scenic spot and soak up the clean country air. We have some of the most incredible scenery in South Africa. Spectacular falls and gorge coupled with rivers and nature reserves. So, what are you waiting for?
A variety of outdoor adventures may be enjoyed in the proximity.

Horse back riding

For those who are in pursuit of a more active getaway. A number of ranches and stud farms in the neighbourhood offer hay rides or easy horse trails for the family as well as Drakensberg tours for the real "cowboys".

Fly fishing

The Midlands is legendary for its well-stocked trout dams. Some of our neighbours boast of at least 10 dams on their property!

Golf

Some of the country's finest golf clubs are in the vicinity. Boschhoek, Sakabula, Mooi River and Pietermaritzburg Golf Clubs to name a few."

Facilities

Restaurant

The Setting

Three kilometres down the road is Caversham Mill Restaurant.  This delightful restaurant is situated on the banks of the Lions River, overlooking a waterfall. When the river is in full flow, the noise of the water rushing by is immense.  While sitting on the deck of the restaurant it is often possible to watch a Kingfisher bird hunting or the Yellowfish trying to jump the waterfall while you sip red wine and eat a superb meal.  Caversham Mill Restaurant is the “Cradle of the Meander” as it was in 1984, on this premises, that the idea for the Midlands Meander was born and became a reality. Caversham Mill Restaurant is thus situated in the heart of the Midlands Meander, which is packed with arts and craft shops offering a large variety of beautiful hand-made goods. Access to the Caversham Mill Restaurant is so easy – turn right out of Midlands Forest Lodge and travel for 3km.  You will see this lovely restaurant on your right as you go over the second bridge.

A la Carte

This well-known restaurant is a landmark in the area.  It is a first class, well priced establishment offering modern comfort food with a few interesting twists.  Dishes are freshly prepared and served in a settling only the Midlands can offer.  Peruse our a-la-carte menu while listening to the Lion’s River tumbling down the waterfall.
As “eatout magazine” recently put it;  “this is comfort food at its homemade, freshly prepared best.”
Breakfast, lunch and intimate dinners are prepared using only fresh locally produced ingredients.  By using local, and where possible organic, produce we make sure that we provide our community with the support it deserves.
The menu changes with the seasons to ensure freshness, and to provide the kitchen with a chance to impress guests with new ideas.
Enjoy a pre-prandial glass of bubbles or a refreshing cocktail in the bar or on the deck overlooking the gorgeous surrounds while listening to the sounds of the local birdlife. Soak in the history and ambiance around the first watermill built in the area.
 

Functions

The restaurant can cater for functions of up to 50 people inside and 45 people under cover outside, easily allowing for groups of about 90 people to soak up the amazing atmosphere of Caversham Mill.

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