The 54th aQuellé Midmar Mile runs from 11 to 14 February 2027 at Midmar Dam, just outside Howick, and beds near the dam disappear early. If you’re hunting for Midmar Mile accommodation with space for the whole family, Waterford Manor in Rosetta is about half an hour up the road, with self-catering cottages and B&B rooms in the Midlands.
A note from Dan: If Howick is full, come up the road. We’re about half an hour from the dam, and you can cook your swimmer’s breakfast in a proper kitchen.
When is the 2027 Midmar Mile?
From Thursday 11 February to Sunday 14 February 2027, according to the organisers’ announcement. Online entries are open. Organisers call it the world’s largest open-water swimming event, and the 2026 edition drew more than 11,000 swimmers and raised R2.7 million for charity.
Why look beyond Howick for a bed?
Howick is the nearest town to the dam and a popular place to stay all year. Add thousands of swimmers and the families who come to cheer them on, and the choice near the dam narrows fast. Look a little further up the N3 and you’ll find more room.
How far are we from Midmar Dam?
About half an hour by road, along the R103 and then the N3 towards Howick. Midmar Dam is a few kilometres off the freeway near Howick. Check your start time on the official programme, then work back from it so you know how early to leave.
Which room suits a swimming family?
- A family with young swimmers and a cot: Sunflower Cottage is 76 m² with a full kitchen, a dining area, a fireplace, a braai area and a foldable cot on request. The kitchen handles race-morning breakfast, and the dining area lets everyone eat together before the drive.
- A club group or two families together: Rose Cottage is our largest at 102 m², with a lounge and a dining area. Wet towels, snacks and nervous parents all fit.
- A couple of swimmers: Lavender Cottage (36 m²) or Azalea Cottage (30 m²). Both have full kitchens, so you eat what you trained on.
- A parent coming to cheer: Hibiscus Cottage (22 m²) or Protea Honeymoon Suite (28 m²), both B&B style.
How do you turn it into a long weekend?
The event runs from Thursday to Sunday, so pick your day and use the rest. Taste cheese at Marrakesh Cheese Farm, browse The Junction in Rosetta, fish the Mooi River or drive out to the Kamberg Nature Reserve. Call ahead for opening days.
February is summer in the Midlands. Days are warm and afternoon thunderstorms are common, so pack a rain jacket as well as the swimming costumes.
Ready to book?
30% OFF for direct bookings via our website. Check your dates and book on our website, or phone us on +27 73 630 7423. Book early, because rooms near the dam fill quickly.
Frequently asked questions
When is the 2027 Midmar Mile?
From 11 to 14 February 2027 at Midmar Dam, near Howick.
How far is Waterford Manor from Midmar Dam?
About half an hour by road. Allow extra time on race mornings.
Can I cook breakfast before an early start?
Yes. Lavender, Azalea, Sunflower and Rose Cottage have full kitchens.
Is there a cottage for a family with a baby?
Sunflower Cottage has a foldable cot available on request.
Should I book early?
Yes. Entries are already open and accommodation near the dam fills early.