Friends of the Fair
From accommodation to things to do, get to know the Friends of the Fair!
The Midlands Meander is South Africa’s oldest and leading destination for arts, culture, hospitality, adventure, conservation, and unique visitor experiences. Just an easy one-hour drive from Durban and four and a half hours from Johannesburg, the Midlands offers endless opportunities to explore, discover, and unwind.
Situated in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, the Midlands Meander is made up of five scenic routes that stretch from just beyond Mooi River in the north, to Hilton in the south, the Karkloof in the east, and the foothills of the Drakensberg in the west.
Situated right on the doorstep of the Midlands Meander just outside of Pietermaritzburg, this hotel combines old-world charm with highly rated friendly and efficient service.
The four-star architectural showpiece that is ANEW Hotel Hilton, with its imposing Tudor lines, is a must-stay for the meandering country charm seeker and offers 8 conference rooms to accommodate your next event, seminar, wedding or group gathering.
Stay at The Old Mushroom Farm for the KZN Art Fair long weekend. Set in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, The Old Mushroom Farm offers countryside accommodation within a dynamic creative village where design, food, and architecture intersect. Visitors can explore reimagined growing tunnels and farm buildings, now home to artisan studios, independent shops, cafés, restaurants and event spaces just steps from their accommodation. Located along the Midlands Meander route, The Old Mushroom Farm is a relaxed base for exploring the Fair and surrounding Midlands attractions. Keep an eye out for live music, theatre, and exhibitions at The Old Mushroom Farm's unique event venues, offering visitors an immersive experience shaped by creativity, reinvention, and discovery.
Nestled in the heart of Hilton KZN, 66 on Monzali Guesthouse epitomises ultimate luxury. With 8 exquisite rooms, guests are treated to unparalleled comfort and style, complete with a perfect location for exploring the stunning surroundings. From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll be transported to a world of refined elegance, excellent service and sophistication, where no detail is overlooked. Whether you’re here to relax and unwind, or to explore all that Hilton KZN has to offer, Monzali Guesthouse is the perfect destination for an unforgettable stay.
The Knoll Historic Guest Farm is located on the historic "The Knoll" farm and is a haven set among the rolling hills of Hilton, Natal Midlands, featuring beautiful views and offering a tranquil escape.
With a small collection of farm stay self-catering accommodation options and gardens full of colour and space, The Knoll presents the perfect destination for self-catering getaways, a family-friendly weekend away and opportunity for the adventurous to enjoy walking trails and mountain biking trails.
The Aloes Farm offers two secure and lavishly equipped self-catering houses that are pet-friendly and situated on a stunning 10ha property bordering the Hilton College estate. The Studio & The Gallery are both well-appointed 6 or 5-sleeper cottages, with kitchens and dining rooms that are amply equipped with all the modern appliances needed for preparing food, eating, making coffee, and for cleaning. Both cottage lounges have comfortable couches and chairs surrounding fireplaces and are supplied with abundant wood. The Gallery has fabulous views of Albert Falls Dam, as well as a spa-bath in the main ensuite bedroom, and a firepit.