Notes, news, trends and hot happenings in the Lowveld…

1. Good old Joe’s

Take a breather on the Schoemanskloof Road at the newly laid-out labyrinth at Old Joe’s Kaia. Based on a classic design, the area was cleared of masses of invader plants with the help of Working for Water, giving local trees and shrubs a new lease of life. You can enjoy a meal on the restaurant’s tree top-level deck, or order a picnic basket or food pack before chilling in the labyrinth.

Contact 013 733 3045/6, or see www.oldjoes.co.za

2. GPS treasure hunt

Geocaching is a GPS-enabled treasure hunt that takes enthusiasts to far-out places in Mpumalanga. It works like this: hide a cache – usually a small, waterproof container with logbook, pencil and a few small trinkets – enter the coordinates on a website and other people have to go and find it. Once found, the logbook is filled in and the loot replaced with something you brought along for the occasion. It’s popular among hikers and adventurers, and is great for getting bored, sulky kids out the house or car.

Find out more at www.geocaching.com

3. Catch a tiger

Tigerfish are among the fastest and most aggressive freshwater species, and are a real challenge to catch on a fly. Add crocodiles and hippos to the equation, and you understand why the Komati River in the vicinity of Komatipoort is a popular venue among adventurous fly-fishers. Tiger fishing usually takes place from a boat and many operators in the area offer guided outings, but choose a company that embraces ecologically sound practices.

We like the sound of Nkomasi Safaris, on www.nkomazisafaris.co.za

4. Portrait in sepia

Butcher, baker, candlestick maker. Relive the heyday of Pilgrims Rest’s gold rush by getting photographed in period at Kuzzulu’s Emporium. Amid much hilarity, you can choose an outfit to match any fantasy and you only pay for the photos you want. Open seven days a week, it’s best to book in advance for the busy Christmas period.

Contact Kuzzula’s Emporium on 013 768 1296

5. Wine for all

You can sample almost 250 wines from 50 different exhibitors at the Mpumalanga Wine Show, hosted by Ingwenyama Conference Centre from March 12 to 14 2011. Presented by wine guru Michael Fridjhon and organised by the WineX and Limpopo Wine Show team, it brings the best of Cape wines right to your doorstep. Tickets are available from Computicket, or at Shoprite Checkers stores.

For more information, call 011 482 5935

Get more online at www.lowveldlivingmagazine.com. Lowveld Living is available on Zinio