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Fancy swapping your usual weekend routine for a braai under the KZN Midlands sky?
A new outdoor event is heading to KwaZulu-Natal this November, bringing cyclists and trail runners together for a weekend of country hospitality… and a little friendly competition.
The Midlands Adventure takes place from 6 to 8 November 2026 at Waterwoods Equestrian Estate, just outside Nottingham Road. Presented by Stellantis South Africa as part of the Stellantis Adventure Series, the inaugural event will be a race PLUS a full weekend away in one of KZN’s most scenic destinations.
Inspired by the success of the Investec Great Kei Trek and Luxliner Route 66, the event caters to everyone from serious athletes chasing prize money to weekend adventurers keen to explore the countryside.
Entries close on 25 October, so you won’t want to miss out.
However, you don’t have to spend the entire weekend in the saddle to join the fun!
READ: Australia want revenge. Durban has bunny chow and the Proteas.
What can you expect at The Midlands Adventure?
- Day 1: The weekend kicks off on Friday with a welcome braai and route presentation, giving you time to settle in and meet fellow adventurers.
- Day 2: Saturday brings a choice of gravel and mountain biking routes, alongside trail running and walking options. Once the sporting action is done, participants can swap their cycling kit for something more comfortable and tuck into a special potjie dinner.
- Day 3: Sunday offers another opportunity to hit the trails, with a shorter ride for those taking on the two-day challenge and options for one-day riders.
READ: Come for Lake Jozini, stay for a different side of KZN
And for the less adventurous…
There’s also plenty for accompanying family members and partners who would rather enjoy the KZN Midlands at a gentler pace. A combined yoga and Pilates session is planned for Saturday, while Sunday morning offers a guided bird-watching walk through the Waterwoods surroundings.
The idea is to make the weekend about more than the finish line. Think beautiful countryside, good food, local breweries, comfortable accommodation and plenty of opportunities to catch up with friends.
Choose your adventure
Whether your idea of fun involves clocking kilometres or taking a leisurely stroll through nature, there are several ways to get involved.
1. Gravel and mountain biking
Saturday’s routes offer a choice of 70km or 45km, while Sunday features a 40km ride for two-day participants. Those entering for Sunday only can choose between 40km and 20km routes.
2. Trail running and walking
Prefer your adventures on foot? Saturday’s programme includes 5km, 10km, and 15km trail run or walk options.
3. Yoga and Pilates
Non-riding partners of competitors can enjoy a combined yoga and Pilates session on Saturday at no additional cost. Participants should bring their own towel or mat.
4. Bird-watching walk
Sunday’s guided walk offers a slower-paced way to explore the estate and discover the KZN Midlands’ birdlife. Whether you’re an experienced birder or simply enjoy a morning outdoors, it’s an opportunity to appreciate the scenery beyond the race routes.
READ: Berg & Bush 2027 entries are open for a mountain biking adventure in KZN
More than a race
There’s more than R30,000 in prize money up for grabs, while the event village will showcase the KZN Midlands and its local offerings.
The weekend also draws on the format of established multi-day adventure events, combining professionally designed routes with opportunities to relax and enjoy the destination.
Whether you’re hoping to push your limits on two wheels, tackle a trail run or simply enjoy a weekend away surrounded by rolling hills, this new event offers a reason to head for the Midlands.
What you need to know
- Event: The Midlands Adventure (MTB & Trail)
- Dates: Friday, 6 November to Sunday, 8 November 2026
- Venue: Waterwoods Equestrian Estate, near Nottingham Road, KwaZulu-Natal
- Activities: Gravel riding, mountain biking, trail running and walking, yoga/Pilates, and bird-watching
- Prize money: More than R30,000
- Entries: Visit midlandsadventure.co.za for entry details and registration information.
- Entry closing date: 25 October 2026
Ride or simply come for the scenery, it’s going to be well worth it!
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