If you’re planning your next getaway and searching for things to do in KZN, let me introduce you to one of the Midlands’ sweetest gems: Piggly Wiggly Country Village. Nestled at 1 Dargle Road, Lions River on the R103, just a scenic drive from Howick, Piggly Wiggly has grown from humble farm stall beginnings into a full-blown destination perfect for families, couples, solo travellers, and day-trippers alike.
A Brief History: From Farm Stall to Country Village
In 1996, Rudi and Cindy Kassier purchased Highgate Farm with a simple vision: fresh produce, crisp country air, and community. Initially they farmed vegetables, but soon recognized the opportunity to create a rest stop for travellers and locals. What began as roadside vegetables under a tree quickly evolved into a coffee shop. The loyalty of their customers spurred expansion. pigglywiggly.co.za
Today, Piggly Wiggly is much more than just a farm stall. Over the years, the grounds have expanded to house restaurants, shops, craft outlets, a mini steam train, mini golf (Piggy-Putt), candle dipping, and even a vineyard and wine tasting. IOL+1 It has become one of the must-see stops on the Midlands Meander route, especially for anyone looking for things to do in KZN off the beaten path. LekkeSlaap
Why Piggly Wiggly Should Be On Your KZN Travel Itinerary
1. A Scenic Chill-out, Right off the R103
The drive along the R103 Midlands Meander is enough to get you relaxed. Rolling hills, green valleys, and mist-clad mornings set the tone. Pulling into Piggly Wiggly, you’ll feel the pace slow. Whether you’re coming from Durban, Howick, or further afield, it’s easy to make Piggly Wiggly your first (or best) things to do in KZN stop. pigglywiggly.co.za+1
2. Coffee Shop & Restaurants
- The Piggly Wiggly Coffee Shop is a favourite. Warm, cozy, and welcoming, it’s perfect for brunch, lunch or an afternoon treat. The cappuccino aromas, fresh baked goods, and friendly staff make it a relaxing spot to recharge. pigglywigglycoffeeshop.co.za
- For pizzas, sandwiches, and lighter fare, there’s The Pizza Place on site offering casual eats. pigglywiggly.co.za
- The coffee shop is especially cozy on cool KZN Midlands mornings, often with a fire going and views across the country setting. pigglywigglycoffeeshop.co.za
3. Shops & Artisan Boutiques
Part of the joy of Piggly Wiggly is browsing. There are over 25 retail outlets set in thatched and rustic buildings. IOL Whether you’re searching for home décor, ceramics, fabric, candles, gardening goods, local art, or lavender products, you’ll find something to delight. midlandsbusiness.co.za
Some highlights:
- The Lavender Co. – essential oils, botanical body products, gifts. midlandsbusiness.co.za
- Eclectic Magpie, Fancy That, Homewood, Linen Loft, Serindip-T, and more boutique shops full of unique finds. LekkeSlaap
4. Activities for Kids & Adults alike
If you’re bringing family, you’re in for a treat. Piggly Wiggly has:
- Mini-Putt (Piggy-Putt) – a mini-golf experience where kids (and adults) can test their putting skills in the fresh air. LekkeSlaap
- Mini Steam Train Rides – a small steam train to ride around parts of the property. Young ones especially love this. midlandsbusiness.co.za
- Candle Dipping Shop – For children and adults alike, the Candle Dipping Shop is an activity centre where you can make your own candles, sand art, or gifts. Great for school groups, team building, or just creative fun on a family outing. midlandsbusiness.co.za
- Playgrounds, open lawns, picnic tables – perfect spaces to let kids burn off energy while you relax with a coffee or a glass of wine. LekkeSlaap
5. Wine Tasting & Highgate Wine Estate
One of the more unexpected features: Highgate Wine Estate, planted by Rudi Kassier. With five hectares of vines, they produce Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz. Wine tasting is available on site, and the views over vineyards make sipping local wine a truly memorable thing to do in KZN. pigglywiggly.co.za+1
6. A Shopping & Leisure Destination
Because Piggly Wiggly combines shopping, food, activities, and wine in one location, it makes the perfect half-day or full-day excursion on a KZN Midlands itinerary. Browse the shops, stop for lunch, let the kids play, then unwind with a wine tasting before heading off to your next Midlands Meander stop. LekkeSlaap
Planning Your Visit: Tips & Highlights
- Opening Hours: Shops typically open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. The coffee shop is open earlier in mornings. howickvillage.co.za
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon visits are magical. The light over the Midlands, the quiet atmosphere, and the coffee shop’s warmth make for relaxing visits. pigglywigglycoffeeshop.co.za
- Parking: Ample onsite parking available. midlandsbusiness.co.za
- Stay Nearby: If you’re spending a few days in the area, Piggly Wiggly is close enough to Howick and other Midlands hotspots that you can easily include it in an itinerary. Stay local, explore, and take your time. LekkeSlaap
- Combine with Other Attractions: Since you’re exploring things to do in KZN, don’t stop at Piggly Wiggly. Pair visits with Howick Falls, the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, Karkloof Canopy Tours, or road-trips through the Midlands Meander. Reddit
Why Piggly Wiggly Stands Out Among “Things to Do in KZN”
What sets Piggly Wiggly apart is its blend of authentic, family-run charm and commercial variety. Many KZN attractions focus on nature, hiking, or wildlife. Piggly Wiggly is different: it’s about quiet country comfort, artisanal finds, hands-on crafts, and local food and wine.
It offers something for everyone: families, couples, solo travellers, or even groups wanting a relaxed day away from city hustle. You can engage, eat, shop, play, and unwind—all in one place. That diversity makes it one of the top places to visit on the Midlands Meander and a standout thing to do in KZN. IOL
Also, its evolution—from roadside stall under a tree to a village of boutiques and eateries—reflects true Midlands entrepreneurship and community spirit. pigglywiggly.co.za
A Sample Day at Piggly Wiggly
Morning:
Roll into Piggly Wiggly by 9 am. Grab a strong cappuccino and a freshly baked pastry from the coffee shop. Listen to the birds, enjoy the view, maybe warm up by the fire if it’s chilly KZN Midlands weather.
Late Morning:
Head to shops – browse The Lavender Co., pick up essential oils, wander through Homewood for homeware, pop into linen stores, and explore ceramic boutiques. Let kids do candle dipping, and perhaps they’ll make a keepsake candle to take home.
Lunch:
Choose lunch either at the coffee shop or Pizza Place. Enjoy fresh local produce, sandwiches, or something warm and comforting.
Early Afternoon:
After lunch, play mini golf (Piggy Putt), ride the mini steam train, explore the property, and take photos. If you’ve stocked up on wine, head to Highgate Wine Estate for a tasting.
Late Afternoon:
Before heading off, sit on a picnic table, sip a glass of wine, feel the Midlands breeze, maybe shop a little more on your way out. Then continue your journey exploring other things to do in KZN along the Midlands Meander.
Visitor Impressions & Why Locals Love It
Many visitors mention how Piggly Wiggly feels like a breath of fresh air. One review describes crowds gathering in the coffee shop for “great food, cozy atmosphere, friendly staff” and says it’s “a perfect stop‐off when heading to the coast or back to Joburg.” pigglywiggly.co.za
Others praise how “kids can run around while Mom and Dad relax,” calling Piggly Wiggly “a Midlands gem.” pigglywiggly.co.za Locals appreciate the authentic feel and say it’s “a place for friends and families to spend time together in the fresh country air.” pigglywiggly.co.za
How to Get There & Combine with Other KZN Attractions
Piggly Wiggly is conveniently located on the R103 Midlands Meander, making it easy to include on a KZN Midlands itinerary. howickvillage.co.za Pair it with:
- Howick Falls – majestic waterfalls close by.
- Nelson Mandela Capture Site – poignant, educational.
- Karkloof Canopy Tours – for zipline and forest adventure.
- Nottingham Road – for wine farms & chocolate.
- Midlands Meander Galleries & Trails – staying local and exploring country artisan villages.
By planning a route through these stops, you can string together a full things to do in KZN itinerary that delivers beauty, culture, relaxation, and fun. Reddit
Is Piggly Wiggly Worth a Visit?
Absolutely. If you’re travelling in KwaZulu-Natal and want to experience the heart of the Midlands, Piggly Wiggly offers one of the richest, most charming, and most versatile experiences you’ll find. Whether you’re sipping wine by the vines, letting kids chase each other around the playground, or browsing artisan boutiques, Piggly Wiggly is an unforgettable thing to do in KZN.
So next time you’re plotting your KZN itinerary, make sure you include Piggly Wiggly. It’s more than a shopping stop—it’s a destination, a moment of calm, a place where memories are made.
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