Tastebud heaven…
While exploring the Midlands Meander, you’ll discover countless shops and attractions. Some are pleasant enough, but others are truly exceptional. Those are the places worth lingering in – not out of snobbery, but because life’s moments are precious and deserve to be spent well.
Upon one dreary, rainy day, we came across one such gem – the Wedgewood Emporium, located in the Piggly Wiggly Country Village in Lions River. More than just a shop, it offers a unique confectionery experience, showcasing Wedgewood’s finest creations. Visitors can indulge in handmade honey nougat soft-serve ice cream, sample Macalettes (Belgian chocolate-coated macadamias in an array of flavours) and discover the brand’s latest nougat innovations. It’s the perfect place to find beautifully crafted gifts for loved ones back home – or simply to treat yourself to something special.
Founded in 1999 by culinary pioneer Gilly Walters, Wedgewood South Africa has grown from a home-based passion project into an internationally recognised confectionery brand renowned for its handcrafted honey nougat and gourmet treats.
When her husband became ill and the family was forced to sell their flower farm, Gilly began hosting classical music concerts at their Midlands home to support the family. Inspired by a Montélimar-style nougat she had discovered while working in France, she spent months perfecting a soft honey nougat recipe that quickly became a favourite among her guests.
Encouraged by the response, Gilly began selling her nougat at local farmers’ markets, where demand grew rapidly. In the same year, she created the world’s first nougat biscuit, now known as the iconic Angels Biscuit, helping establish Wedgewood as an innovative leader in premium confectionery.
Still family-owned today, Wedgewood continues to craft its products in small batches using Gilly’s original recipes and commitment to quality. Now led by her son, Paul Walters, the business exports its handcrafted treats to markets across Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia.
From its beginnings in a family kitchen to a globally loved brand, Wedgewood remains dedicated to exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, sustainability and sharing moments of joy through every handmade treat. Their ice-creams are particularly good – trust me on this!
Virtually next door is Chocolate Heaven. In their own words, “For seventeen years, we’ve been the keepers of sweet dreams and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Midlands. It was here that our whimsical journey as the ‘Funatiers’ in the chocolate world began.
Chocolate Heaven started as a hobby, fuelled by a passion for all things sweet and tantalizing, quickly blossoming into a beloved destination, spreading delight and wonder to all who enter our realm.
Our chocolate is expertly crafted from premium cocoa beans, from one of Belgium’s oldest roasteries, combined with pure cocoa butter and the finest ingredients to offer a world-class couverture experience.
We avoid palm oil, vegetable fats, or anhydrous fats found in commercial brands.”
But be warned – you’ll be hard-pressed to leave without opening your wallet. With an irresistible selection of handcrafted treats on offer, temptation awaits around every corner.
Explore a world of more than 50 chocolate bonbons and truffles, featuring flavours ranging from Strawberry, Turkish Delight, Caramel and Milk Tart to Hazelnut, Rocky Road and even the intriguingly bold Biltong.
Whether you favour the familiar or the unexpected, there’s a flavour to delight every palate. Belgian waffles, hot chocolate and even chocolate dipping feature on the menu!
The Lions River Railway at Piggly Wiggly Country Village in the KZN Midlands is a delightful miniature steam train that offers scenic, pet-friendly rides around the village.
This little spot is well worth a stop. Beyond the two featured tastebud delights, you’ll find a variety of other charming outlets to explore, from artisan craft shops and boutique retailers to specialty food stores and local producers. Whether you’re searching for a unique gift, browsing handcrafted goods, or simply soaking up the relaxed Midlands atmosphere, Piggly Wiggly Country Village invites visitors to slow down, wander at leisure, and discover something unexpected around every corner.
Jacqui Ikin & The Cross Country Team
INFO BOX:
https://www.wedgewoodnougat.co.za
Wedgewood Crafted Confectionery:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OyxqyFYaaZo