Strawberries & Champagne

Love is in the air this week with Valentine’s Day on Tuesday. Valentine's Day tends to put a bit of pressure on people to come up with an idea for the perfect date so we've decided to help you out with a couple of romantic, and fun things to do this week.

We also have a variety of other events and activities in South Africa that you can take part in and attend to keep you entertained — from sporting events to bridal shows.

Whatever you might be looking for we are here to help you with suggestions of what you can do to keep yourselves entertained so diarise the following events and enjoy one of the most romantic days of the year.

Events in Gauteng:

Beeld Holiday Show

You can extend your Valentine’s Day celebrations to Friday 17 February 2012 by heading to Duncan Yard in Hatfield, Pretoria for a Strawberries & Champagne Evening where you can stroll down cobble stone pathways as you indulge in nature's juiciest strawberries and sparkling wine.

Also Duncan Yard will be holding a University Book Sale on Wednesday 15 February 2012 giving students a platform to get rid of old text books and fellow students to obtain second hand text books.

If you want to get new ideas for where you would like to go for your holidays this year we suggest you visit the Beeld Holiday Show at the Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 February 2012. The show exhibits various holiday activities from camping to overseas travel destinations.

Expo4Brides

To keep with the love theme brides-to-be can attend the Expo4Brides from Saturday 18 to Sunday 19 February 2012 at the Tshwane Event Centre in Pretoria. With more than 120 specialists in the bridal business exhibiting their products and services you are sure to find all you need to create your romantic Wedding day.

For anyone looking for sporting events in Gauteng this week — check out the Tuks Half Marathon and 10km run to be held in the suburb of Hatfield in Pretoria on Saturday 18 February 2012 or you could also head to Midrand on Sunday 19 February 2012 for the Makhulu Swim at the Leisure Lakes dam, exciting events for both spectator and competitors.

… see more events and fest­ivals at Gauteng Events

Events in the Eastern Cape

Surfers Challenge

It’s a sporting week in the Eastern Cape starting with the Wild Coast Ultra trail running event taking place from Port St Johns to East London held over 6 days from Monday 13 to Saturday 18 February 2012. So if you are looking for a challenge combined with pristine picturesque scenery look no further. Contact Dave Gassner on +27 (0)76 817‑9058 or +27 (0)21 785‑5911 for more information.

Surfers, athletes, walkers and paddlers will be heading to the Eastern Cape shoreline on Saturday 18 February 2012 for the Discovery Surfers Challenge. This marathon starts from Yellow Sands at the Kwelera River mouth and finishes at Nahoon Beach in East London. Come and enjoy this challenge as once you don your shoes for your first surfers marathon you are usually hooked!

The Spar Redhouse River Mile on Sunday 19 February 2012 is Africa’s oldest open water swimming event, started in 1924 and has become a must do event in South Africa! So bring a picnic and head to Cannonville Village to make a day of it on the banks of the Sundays River.

… see more events and fest­ivals at Eastern Cape Events

Events in the Western Cape:

Ultimate X

What a perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day on Saturday 18 February 2012 at the Can-Sir Valentine’s Charity Dance in Rondebosch East where this fundraising and awareness event’s proceeds will be used to reach those cancer survivors who are in impoverished areas and you can help make a difference. Contact Bianca on +27 (0)72 136‑9071 for more information.

For those interested in exhilarating death-defying stunts and dare-devil twists head to the Gateway Canal at the V&A Waterfront on Saturday 18 February to experience South Africa’s only and largest extreme sports event Ultimate X! Contact +27 (0)83 655‑3176 or +27 (0)21 462‑4156 for more information.

… see more events and fest­ivals at Western Cape Events

Events in KwaZulu Natal:

Dusi Canoe Marathon

Canoeing enthusiast will be heading to Pietermaritzburg from Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 February 2012 for the Dusi Canoe Marathon which takes place on the Msunduzi River, more commonly known as the Dusi / Duzi river. The race paddles down from Pietermaritzburg and ends 3 days later inDurban. This 3 day event is sure to be exciting and challenging for all paddlers.

… see more events and fest­ivals at KwaZulu Natal Events

If you can't wait to plan your year of festivals check our our full events section here: South Africa Events

Useful Planning Links:
South Africa Events
Things to do in South Africa
South Africa Hotels
South Africa Accommodation

I ♥ Hurlingham

Hi, I’m Trish from Hurlingham House in Hurlingham.

Hurlingham IS BEST KNOWN FOR being a peaceful and safe suburb, yet it's only 3km from the heart of Sandton.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT the statue of Nelson Mandela in Mandela Square.

THE BEST architectural PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN AT the Sandton CBD.

OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT Zoo Lake.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO sit at our swimming pool or in a sidewalk cafe.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO go to Sandton City Mall.

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS spring or summer, BECAUSE the trees in Hurlingham are beautiful and the weather is good.

I ♥ Hurlingham

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS Contessa's in Rivonia.

FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST the Piazza at Monte Casino. Take your pick from the six restaurants.

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS The Local Grill, Hurlingham Manor, TRY THE steaks.

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM restaurants at Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton.

MY FAVOURITE viewing and high tea SPOT IS the The Westcliff Hotel.

FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY Taboo at 24 Central.

IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO 4th Avenue Parkhurst or Newtown.

Hurlingham’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS its beauty, tranquility and safety.

I ♥ Hurlingham

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS to watch sport at the Piazza at Monte Casino.

FOR SOME LIVE MUSIC, I LIKE TO GO TO The Blues Room.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO go to the Amani Africa Spa at Radisson Blu or to the Botanical Gardens.

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY ballooning at Mushroom Park.

MY FAVOURITE WALK IS at Emmarentia Dam.

MY FAVOURITE market IS the Bryanston Organic Market.

MY FAVOURITE owl WATCHING SPOT IS at Delta Park.

I ♥ Hurlingham

IF YOU'RE HERE IN September, JOIN IN THE FUN AT Joburg Day.

MY FAVOURITE GALLERY IS Goodmans. CHECK OUT THE art.

MY FAVOURITE BUILDING IS the Nedbank Head Office, FOR ITS carbon negative footprint.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS Jozi Kids.

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS the Joburg Zoo.

WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO shop at the iStore in Sandton City.

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING I SEE HERE IS the spectacular thunderstorms.

MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS the Magaliesburg.

WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I donate blood.

I ♥ Hurlingham BECAUSE it is a tranquil suburb close to so much action.

Hurlingham House

Hurlingham House Guest House

Hurlingham House Guest House offers a tranquil retreat at the end of a busy day. Set in the quiet suburb of Hurlingham, in a beautifully treed garden, this guest house is superbly situated — only a stone’s throw from Sandton City. Take a refreshing swim in the sparkling pool, a walk in the gardens or sundowners on the patio overlooking the pool and landscaped garden.

Visit Hurlingham House Guest House
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Contessa’s: +27 (0)11 234‑6641
The Local Grill: +27 (0)11 880‑1946
The Westcliff Hotel: +27 (0)11 481‑6000
Taboo: +27 (0)11 783‑2200
The Blues Room: +27 (0)11 784‑5527

Have you vis­ited Hurlingham? Why not tell us what you thought by sub­mit­ting a review. See: Hurlingham Reviews

Useful Links:
Hurlingham Guest Houses
Hurlingham B&B Accommodation
Hurlingham Accommodation
Gauteng Accommodation
Gauteng Hotels

The Town of Knysna

When was the last time you were in Knysna? This ever popular Garden Route town has plenty to offer. The middle of the year is when thousands of people descend on this town for the Knsyna Oyster Festival and those who've been training take part in either the Knysna Forest Marathon and Knysna Cycle Tour.

But when the buzz of the Oyster Festival calms down and the tourists leave this town doesn't go to sleep ... it does the opposite of that. Reason being because there is so much to do in and around the town of Knysna. There are plenty of festivals that happen each year, the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras is another favourite.

Not only is the town filled with festivals but your will find a host of Things to Do in Knysna. I've taken a slice out of all the exciting places to visit and things to see and have round up 10 great things to do when you're next in town ...

Beer Tasting & Tour at Mitchells Brewery

Mitchells Brewery Tasting

An absolute must visit is the Mitchells Brewery, here you can discover all there is to know about brewing fine natural ales. The tour guide will enlighten and excite you with terms such as Mash Tun, Whirlpool and Grist Hopper. After your tour you'll be taken to the sales area for a tasting and a chance to purchase some of the ale to take home. If you're a group of 6 or more persons you are able to arrange an alternative tour time to the scheduled tours.

Address: Arend Street, Knysna Industria, Knysna, Garden Route
Telephone: +27 (0)44 382‑4685
Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 08h00 to 17h00. Please contact us for Tour & Tasting Times.

Canoeing on the Knysna Lagoon

Canoe the Lagoon

If you're feeling a little bit energetic and would like to get out on the water why not hire yourself a Canadian-syle canoe for either one or two persons from Lightleys River Runners (who are known as The Boat People). The canoes are very easy to use and would be the perfect opportunity to take that special someone on a little romantic outing ... don't forget it is Valentines Day next week. Or if romance is not what you're after and you're looking for birds of the feathered variety this would also serve you well. If you like, you can arrange for a delicious picnic as well which includes succulent oysters and a bottle of bubbly

Address: Lightleys River Runners, Phantom Pass Road, Knysna, Garden Route
Telephone: +27 (0)44 386‑0007
Opening hours: By arrangement

Oyster Farm Tour

Oyster Farm Tour

Knysna is very well known for its oysters. This is something that not everyone is a fan of, but if you are one who loves these slippery shellfish then I would highly reccommend an Oyster Farm Tour. On the tour you will learn all there is to know about The Knysna Osyter as it grows wild on this stretch of coastline. The tour drifts off towards the Knysna Heads and your guide will not only find out a bit of the history of the Knysna Head but also all you need to know about the oyster beds. The tour includes drinks, lights snacks and three oysters per person (you'll taste both wild and farmed oysters). If three is not enough don't fret there will be oysters on sale.

Address: Tours depart from Thesen Island Harbour, Knysna
Telephone: +27 (0)82 892‑0469
Opening hours: Tours depart at 11h00, 13h00 and 15h00 daily and last 90 minutes

A Pastry from île de pain

île de pain

Come to île de pain Bakery and Café where bread is not just bread, it is a religion. Every morning the crew get up before the crack of dawn to create the most scrumptious bread you have ever tasted. Thus ensuring île de pain is one of the most popular eateries in Knysna. You'll find the first artisan, wood-fired bakery in South Africa at the Thesen Island in the Knysna Waterfront. The eatery offers a delectable selection of pastries which include baked pear tartlets, or choose something from the simple breakfast menu. Be warned though you might enjoy yourself so much you'll want to stay on for lunch deciding between healthy gourmet salads, delicious tarts or their signature beef burger. Whatever you do make sure you come hungry!

Address: Thesen's Island Street, Knysna Waterfront, Knysna, Garden Route
Telephone: +27 (0)44 302‑5707
Opening hours: Please enquire

Harkerville Saturday Market

Harkerville Saturday Market

You'll find this market situated on the N2 between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Why make the effort you might ask, perhaps because it has been going for 10 years and is not just a flea market, nor a craft market, it isn't even just a farmers market ... it is a combination of all three. You can be looking for any number of things from books to organic vegetables, sumptuous home-baked goodies to locally produced cheeses. Relax under one of the trees and enjoy breakfast with friends and family — the perfect opportunity for a catch up.

Address: On the N2, between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route
Telephone: + 27 (0)44 533‑9094
Opening hours: Saturday mornings from 08h00 to 12h00

Dine aboard the Paddle Cruiser

Knysna Paddle Cruiser

Take a trip on the only paddle-driven vessel in South Africa and enjoy a completely unique Knysna Lagoon experience. Decide between a lunch time (12h30 departure) or evening (18h15 departure) cruise. The evening cruise will allow you to relax into the evening while sipping a cocktail and watching the sunset. Feast on a large a la carte selection which features a Tapas Mediterranean menu for lunch and a 3-course Mediterranean buffet for dinner — and of course when in Knysna savour a succulent oyster.

Address: Remembrance Lane, off Waterfront Drive, Knysna, Garden Route
Telephone: +27 (0)44 382‑1693
Opening hours: Lunch cruise at 12h30 and evening cruise at 18h15

The Red Barn Restaurant & Country Store

Red Barn Restaurant

Nestled amongst Macadamia nut orchards this recently renovated, 20 year old Cape Cod style barn is a wonderful place to you to purchase fresh produce, browse through local art and dine of wonderful creations from the talented chef at the Red Barn Restaurant. The menu is inspired by seasonal produce and you can expect to find artisan meats, cheeses and a range of other produce that is produced either locally or on site. Come and spend a lazy lunch with your friends and enjoy a glass of wine from their extensive wine list.

Address: Fern Gully Farm, Rheenendal, Road, Knysna, Garden Route
Telephone: +27 (0)82 739‑0962
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday and Public holidays from 09h00 to 16h00 and Friday night the kitchen closes at 22h00

The Dry Dock Food Co

Dry Dock Food Co

A wonderful venue for a large group of friends or an intimate dinner for two. With three separate floors you might think you don't need to book but due to their popularity it's adviseable to give them a call. The location couldn't be more ideal as it is situated at the Knysna Waterfront and you'll leave wanting to come back soon because the food is delectable. Lunch is served daily from 12h00 to 18h00 — I would suggest something from the many seafood options, you'll be begging for more. If you are a fan of prawns they have some many options of how it is prepared you are rather spoilt for choice.

Address: Shop 1, The Waterfront Knysna Quays, Knysna, Garden Route
Telephone: +27(0)44 382‑7310
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 12h00 to 22h00

Day Sailing Charter with Springtide

Charter with Springtide

Take up position at the help of the 50 foot yacht, Outeniqua, thanks to Spring Tide Sailing Charters. This will be a sailing experience like no other — sail through one of the most notoriously difficult sea passages in the world — the Knysna Heads. The crew will let you enjoy a lagoon cruise and then carefully take you through the Knysna Heads and sail on towards Buffalo Bay. When you return you can anchor down and enjoy a few delicious treats and even a swim to cool down. The Outeniqua was hand built by owner and skipper, Stephan Pepler and has been a luxury sailing yacht since 1998.

Address: The Outeniqua Yacht is situated in front of Building 34 South
Telephone: +27 (0)82 470‑6022 or +27 (0)82 829‑2740
Opening hours: By arrangement

The Anchorage

The Anchorage

The Anchorage has a strong history of more than 20 years so you can be rest assured that this is a local favourite. The restaurant offers an unpretentious evening with traditional seafood dishes and perfect steaks. The Anchor Platter includes mussels, prawns, calamari and linefish alternatively if you're looking for the best in both worlds you can opt for the steak and prawn combo. For pudding treat yourself to a South African favourite, Malva Pudding or a splendid Amarula crème Brule.

Address: 11 Grey Street, Knysna, 6570, Garden Route
Telephone: +27 (0)44 382‑2230
Opening hours: Please enquire

No matter what you're after you will find it in Knysna! Share your best experiences with us in the comments section below.

Have you vis­ited Knysna? Why not tell us what you thought by sub­mit­ting a review. See: Knysna Reviews

Useful Links:
Knysna Attractions
Knysna Accommodation
Things to Do in Knysna
Knysna Events
Garden Route Hotels
Garden Route Accommodation

I ♥ Haenertsburg

Hi, I’m Jady Stanford from Standford Lake Lodge in Haenertsburg in the Capricorn region of Limpopo.

Haenertsburg IS BEST KNOWN FOR being the “Land of the Silver Mists” ... land of forests, lakes, waterfalls and more.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT the John Buchan War Memorial overlooking a beautiful view of Ebenezer Dam.

THE BEST scenic PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN AT Haenertsburg Cemetry, overlooking the village.
OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT Cheerio Gardens, Debengeni Falls and so many more interesting places.

I ♥ Haenertsburg

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO hike, play tennis or take a drive to the Wolkberg’s beautiful scenery.
WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO get together with locals for a meal, chatting and catching up with news.

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS Spring, BECAUSE of our annual Spring Fair Festival when the area is “alive” with Azealas and Cherry Blossom trees.

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS Sanford Heights Nursery and Tea Garden.

FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST The Red Plate in the village, sitting outside under the huge Elm trees.
MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS Picassos, TRY THE whole menu, superb food by Master Chef. Mr. Host Dombrock.

I ♥ Haenertsburg

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM Pot ‘n Plow — best Pizzas in the land!
MY FAVOURITE picnic SPOT IS at the waterfall area on Stanford Lake Farm and at Debengeni Falls.

FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY The Iron Crown Pub and Restaurant — good vibe and super food.
IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO either the Iron Crown and/or the Pot ‘n Plow.

Haenertsburg’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS its bird life (especially at Stanford Lake Lodge), fishing spots, hiking trails, adventure sports and more.

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS being outdoors with friends; hiking, fishing, swimming and being active.

I ♥ Haenertsburg

FOR SOME CULTURE OR LIVE MUSIC, I LIKE TO GO TO periodic cultural talks / movie slides and live music groups held in the Haenertsburg Village Hall.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO my sister-in-law, Colleen Ballendon who runs the Growth Centre on Stanford Farm — for relaxing holistic treatments e.g. Reflexology, Reiki and the like.

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY Magoebaskloof Adventure sports at Thaba Metsi (close by) – canopy tours, quad biking, kloofing.

MY FAVOURITE HIKE IS is the Louis Chagninon hike and a DRIVE through and around Stanford Farm’s beautiful forest which borders the magnificent Ebenezer Dam.
MY FAVOURITE gift SHOP IS The Elms – stunning clothes, jewellery and more.

I ♥ Haenertsburg

MY FAVOURITE scenic WATCHING SPOT IS at Haenertsburg Cemetery, overlooking our village.

IF YOU'RE HERE IN the Magoebaskloof / Haenertsburg area, JOIN IN THE FUN AT various annual Festivals such as the Kiwi-Fruit festival, Spring Festival, Ebenezer Mile Swim, Mountain cycling race and of course ... more.

MY FAVOURITE MUSEUM IS the John Buchan war Memorial, Long Tom Pass.
MY FAVOURITE BUILDINGS ARE Stanford Lake Lodges FOR THEIR “whole log cabin effect; decor, situated on the banks of Stanford Lake. Also to be mentioned is Pennefathers in the village — cottages built as a replica of the early 20th century mining cottages.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS a visit to the Debengeni Falls which is only 15 kms from us.

I ♥ Haenertsburg

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS a “fairy walk” with Colleen Ballendon (Growth Centre) through our beautiful indigenous forest behind the old farm house. Children actually “believe” they see fairy’s, elves.

WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO eat out at one of our many eateries in the village viz. Picassos, Iron Crown, The Red Plate, Glenshiel Manor, Magoebaskloof Hotel, Pot ‘n Plow, Ruskamp.

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING I SEE HERE IS when neighbours, friends, etc get together with their pets for the annual walk up to the scenic Cemetery area when it is full moon!

MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS (besides Stanford Lake Lodge), I would treat myself to a weekend away at Bramasole which is about 5 kms from us.

WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I try and support the local village hall by attending various events planned (to raise funds to keep the hall “going) e.g. meals for the elderly, Quiz shows, Xmas in July and various other charitable events.

I ♥ Haenertsburg BECAUSEit is a great place to be ... away from city and town hustle and bustle.

Stanford Lake Lodge

Standford Lake Lodge

Stanford Lake Lodge is proud to be one of the ultimate destinations for fishing, hiking, birding, horse riding, canoeing, biking and 4x4 trails in South Africa. Escape beyond the turmoil of the city — and those over-crowded resorts. Claim your private piece of paradise for a weekend– or more. Stanford Lake Lodge, less than 3 hour's drive from Pretoria. Just you, close friends, the water, the forests and endless skies.

Visit Stanford Lake Lodge
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Cheerio Gardens: +27 (0)82 374‑2818
Sandford Heights Nursery: +27 (0)82 808‑2450 or +27 (0)83 636‑6026
The Red Plate: +27 (0)83 305‑2851
Picasso's: +27 (0)72 447‑4760 or +27 (0)83 866‑3868
Pot & Plough: +27 (0)82 691‑5790
Iron Crown Pub: +27 (0)15 276‑4755
Magoebaskloof Adventures: +27 (0)83 866‑1546

Have you vis­ited Haenertsburg? Why not tell us what you thought by sub­mit­ting a review. See: Haenertsburg Reviews

Useful Links:
Haenertsburg Guest Houses
Haenertsburg Self Catering
Haenertsburg Accommodation
Limpopo Accommodation
Limpopo Hotels

La Vita Restaurant

La Vita restaurant has had a reputation as being one of the most upmarket and expensive eateries in Pietermaritzburg for a while now. Situated in the popular and well-known Invesco Centre just a few kilometres from the CBD, La Vita specialises in Italian cuisine and has an extensive selection of pizza, pasta, seafood and meat dishes to cater for almost any palate. Curious sounding offerings such as Drunk Duck and Raunchy Rabbit are guaranteed to arouse interest and even Guineafowl is available for those wanting to try something new.

Italian cuisine has a rich heritage, having traceable roots as far back as the fourth century BC. La Vita strives to maintain this heritage by using only imported ingredients, giving the food an authentic and unmistakable Italian flavour. My mom and I experienced this authenticity first hand when we had supper at La Vita recently, an experience we’ll certainly remember for some time.

With so many options and combinations to choose from we were somewhat befuddled but with a little help from our waiter, Musa, we were able to place our orders. I selected the Polla Limone (a whole free range spring chicken, prepared in a wood-fired pizza oven and sprinkled with fresh garlic, fresh lemon and a medley of fresh herbs), which came with the option of vegetables, rice, chips or baked potato.

It was rather good and after applying a liberal amount of freshly squeezed lemon juice, the taste and flavour of the dish improved even more. I selected the option of vegetables (I am trying to eat as healthily as possible these days) to accompany the meal which, to be honest, could have been better prepared. Nevertheless the Polla Limone still represented value for money at R89 because it was well-cooked, well-presented and came in a rather sizable portion.

For starters my mom had the Roly Poly Pork (succulent pieces of pork glazed in honey and lemon) which she described as “succulent and tasty.” Not wanting to just take her word for it, I requested a “little taste” and boy was I glad I did so. The Roly Poly Pork was delicious, almost heavenly in fact and well worth R45.

At this point I was beginning to realise that talk of La Vita being “expensive and over-priced” were unfounded. It most certainly is not cheap, but by the same token cannot be described as expensive considering what I have encountered at similar establishments in Pietermaritzburg and the Midlands.

For her main course my mom ordered the Baked Polo (strips of Ostrich swathed in a delicious sauce and resting on a scrumptious potato bake), which she described as an “excellent” dish. Curious, I once again requested a “little taste” and was most impressed. I had never eaten Ostrich before and was quite surprised to find the meat tender and flavoursome. Truth be told I actually preferred the Baked Polo to the Polla Limone, it was that good.

With no room for dessert we requested the bill and began to reflect on the evening’s events. My mom was thoroughly impressed with her experience at La Vita. She loved the food and the vibrant atmosphere and would definitely recommend the restaurant to her family and friends, some of whom have a distinct love of Italian Cuisine.

I, too, was pretty impressed with this restaurant. The food was brilliant in every aspect, the atmosphere very uplifting and the service prompt and professional. With a packed restaurant and dozens of patrons to attend to Musa did not make a single mistake while serving us and his product knowledge was truly impressive.

Owner Shaun Beatt certainly has a winning combination in the form of La Vita and his adjacent Bangkok Wok franchise, which specializes in traditional Thai cuisine. Besides offering fantastic food and superb service, La Vita also boasts an extensive wine list, which features over 90 great tasting wines. Restaurant manager Tim Lander is always on hand to assist patrons in pairing their favourite dish with a wine to match and there’s even a range of certified organic wines available for those who would prefer this option.

La Vita is open from Mondays to Saturdays from 11h30 to 15h00 and again from 17h00 to 22h00. On Sundays the restaurant will be open from 11h30 to 15h00 and again from 17h00to 20h30. So for truly fine Italian dining at surprisingly affordable prices look no further than La Vita, arguably the best Italian restaurant in Pietermaritzburg.

Contact details:

Telephone: +27 (0)33 342‑0024
Physical address: Shop 10, Invesco Centre, Corner Sanctuary and Armitage Road, Pietermaritzburg

For a detailed review of the Bangkok Wok restaurant at the Invesco Centre, please refer to an earlier posting entitled ‘The Bangkok Wok – Add some spice to your life’

Useful Links

Pietermaritzburg Attractions
Things to Do in Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Accommodation

I ♥ Colesberg

Hi, I’m Jurie from Toverberg Guest Houses and Carl Gronum from Traveller’s Joy Guest House  in Colesberg.

Colesberg IS BEST KNOWN FOR being a convenient stopover between the interior and the coast. Here the N1 and the N9 meet.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT the wrought iron lamp at the corner of Paul Kruger and Ventershoek Streets – erected in commemoration of Queen Vistoria’s 60th Jubilee.
THE BEST sunset PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN DOWN the road passing the golf course.

OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT a number of 19th century buildings and the Colesberg Sloot.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO cycle with my road bike along the road past Bastersnek onto the Seekoeiriver – about 20km out.

I ♥ Colesberg

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO local publication All Roads Lead to Colesberg introducing me to a time gone-by and a future full of promise. Let your imagination, with the assistance of the booklet, meander through town: You will be intruduced to the stories of the beautiful churches and Karoo houses with their intricate detail meeting interesting characters form the past. You could sit on a stoep gossiping about passers-by. Or perhaps you can imagine having tea with Helena Stern (by invitation only — ofcourse!) discussing her wedding dress which is now in the Kimberley Museum. You meet Lady Florence Phillips again, daughter of Adolf Ortlepp of Ortlepp House in the main street and are reminded of her contribution to the Johannesburg Art Gallery; of her changing the Koopmans de Wet House in Cape Town into a museum and the restoration of Vergelegen to its former beauty. Take an excursion through the surrounding battlefields, when Colesberg was the Southern Front during the Anglo Boer War, or listen the stories of pain of those during the 1980’s political unrest.

I ♥ Colesberg

You may also feel yourself comfortable on the back of a donkie karretjie of a Karoo Nomad family. Or, maybe you are interested to learn about how many buildings in Colesberg were built from from locally manufactured bricks – all by hand. And, what about Mr Edmead’s memories of the Norval’s Pont pontoon?

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS all year round, BECAUSE whether a hot or cold day there is always a good fare and bed (provided you have booked accommodation way in advance – especially during school holidays!).

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS The Gossip.
FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST The Horse and Mill – one of the only working horse mills left in the country — now serving as the local pub.

I ♥ Colesberg

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS The Bordeaux, TRY THE lamb shanks! Also try Die Plattelander or JC’s neck of lamb.
BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM JC’s.

MY FAVOURITE dreaming SPOT IS on top of Coleskop — a climb of about one hour.
FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY Blue Moon (If you younger than I am!)

IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO to the golf club, a nine-hole golf course with challenging Karoo fairways but well-maintained grass greens and aprons and well-equipped club house facilities.

Colesberg’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS the Lesser Kestrel roosts in the upper part of town.

I ♥ Colesberg

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS fishing along the Orange River or at Lake Gariep.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO sit in the Anglican Church (1854) designed by Sophie Gray the wife of the first Anglican Bishop in the Cape. Note the beautiful furniture and original organ inside. The existing Methodist Church, Reformed Church and Dutch Reformed Church buildings were all complete in the early 1860’s.

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY climbing Coleskop or tackle the moderate 20km or 70km mountain bike trail — facinating routes through surrounding koppies.

MY FAVOURITE WALK IS is the hiking trail next to the N1. It is a 5km moderate walking route through beautiful scenery and local flora. One can also turn off to the Boer Memorial and the Military cemetery behind which lies the old Jewish Cemetery.

I ♥ Colesberg

The Struggle Route starting from the Colesberg-Kemper Museum through Kuyasa takes one on a journey of the political struggle of days gone by. Depending on your family’s sense of adventure or fitness you can also walk the 5, 8 or 12 km Family and Dog trail at the old airport – pass the golf course. It is an easy walk with no traffic. Just remember that there are no water points along any of the trails.

IF YOU'RE HERE IN August, JOIN IN THE FUN AT the annual national sled-dog gathering – starting at 5am though.

MY FAVOURITE MUSEUM IS the Colesberg-Kemper Museum, the original Colesberg Bank establised in 1861 – with the old bank counter still intact. It also accommodates the local Information Office. Check out the 19th century toy collection and memorabilia. The museum also houses the permanent UNISA Karoo Nomad Photographic Exhibition. Together with the Anglo-Boer War room, the Colesberg room and the Struggle room it offers an exciting reflection on the past and present.

MY FAVOURITE BUILDING IS collection of restored Karoo houses in Bell Street, FOR ITS charm.

I ♥ Colesberg

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS all restaurants are child–friendly and it is safe to walk in the streets, enjoy the fresh air and friendly local people.

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING I SEE HERE IS Hannes and his tractor and trailer — covered in lights — carting locals and visitors through town on Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS Doornkloof Nature Reserve of about 12 000 ha approximately 45km north-west of Colesberg around the confluence of the Zeekoei and Orange River. The landscape is very mountainous, with abundant kloofs and little true plains. Temperatures range from –8 ºC in July to 41 ºC from November to February with Rainfall which varies between 300 mm to 400 mm, occurring mainly as summer thunderstorms.

WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I give to the Badisa Fund for street children – donation boxes are found at most shops.

I ♥ Colesberg

Vegetation in the reserve has characteristics of both the Grassland and Nama-Karoo biomes.  Kuni-bush and Red Grass dominate the slopes, while the plateaus are more open with Sour Karee and Love Grass. The abundant kloofs are densely grown with Sweet Thorn, Wild Olive and Buffalo-thorn. Of the 420 plant species, of which 60 are grass varieties. The reserve is host to a surprising combination of perennial flowering plants, which flower from spring to mid-summer.

Animal life, forty-eight mammal species have been documented, of which the Mountain Reedbuck is the most abundant. Big game species include Buffalo, Eland, Kudu, Gemsbok and Red Hartebeest. The reserve is also home to 28 reptile and 8 amphibian species. The 172 bird species documented include 20 birds of prey species. Bird species of particular note are the African Fish Eagle, Verreaux’s Eagle, Black-chested, Snake-Eagle, Kingfishers, South African Shelduck, Yellow-billed Duck, African Spoonbill and other wading birds. Lists of plant, bird and animal species are available at a nominal fee.

I ♥ Colesberg

Tourist’s attractions, The reserve is unique not only in the sense that there are minimal signs of disturbance, but it also has breathtaking views of the Vanderkloof dam and mountainous areas. Remnants of the Anglo-Boer war can be seen on the reserve through prior arrangements.   There is a campsite-cum-picnic area available at Roodewal. The shady picnic sites next to the Zeekoei River, where visitors can pitch a tent, it has braai and toilet facilities. Canoeing and mountain biking is allowed at a nominal fee. Anglers are welcome.

The reserve has a secluded and fully equipped (except for bedding) bush hut for the relaxing visitor. (A major upgrading project is currently in progress regarding access roads and accommodation – and blissfully no cellphone reception or internet connection!).

The adventurous can gear up to walk the 2 to 3 day Bokmakierie hiking trail (32 km). Overnight the first night in the Bokmakierie hut and the second night under the stars, or in a stone kraal.

Birders can spend time along the banks of the Zeekoei River observing wading birds and other waterfowl. Also keep the binoculars handy for those close-up encounters with Eland, Buffalo, Mountain Reedbuck and Red Hartebeest.

I ♥ Colesberg BECAUSE this is home.

Toverberg Guest Houses

Toverberg Guest Houses

Toverberg Guest Houses are a selection of beautifully restored Karoo townhouses in the quiet and historic Bell Street and Stockenstroom Street. These beautifully restored Karoo townhouses are situated in the historic part of Colesberg, right next to the Dutch Reformed Church.  Should you feel like breakfast — our reception house in Charl Cilliers Street is where you will treated to something scrumptious. Please make the necessary arrangements before hand as it's only available on request.

Visit Toverberg Guest Houses
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Traveller’s Joy Guest House: +27 (0)51 753‑0285
Colesberg Golf Club: +27 (0)51 753‑0822
The Gossip: +27 (0)51 753‑0551
The Horse & Mill: +27 (0)51 753‑0406
Bordeaux Coffee Shop: +27 (0)51 753‑1582
Blue Moon: +27 (0)79 144‑6466
Colesberg-Kemper Museum: +27 (0)51 753‑0678
Doornkloof Nature Reserve: +27 (0)51 733‑1315

Have you vis­ited Colesberg? Why not tell us what you thought by sub­mit­ting a review. See: Colesberg Reviews

Useful Colesberg Links:
Colesberg Attractions
Things to Do in Colesberg
Colesberg Accommodation
Northern Cape Accommodation

I ♥ Britannia Bay

Hi, I’m Lucille Byrnes from Dolphin B&B+S/C in Britannia Bay a suburb of the town St Helena Bay up South Africa’s Cape West Coast.

Britannia Bay IS BEST KNOWN FOR long stretches of pristine beaches, “heaven” and “hell” surfer’s corners and the wreck after which the bay is named.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT the deck of my house (where do you get sea and surf in the foreground and backdrop of the Winterberge in one photograph?). From Britannica Heights one can see north to Baboon Point at Elandsbaai, a natural heritage site, and south to the first working lighthouse after you cross the equator at Cape Columbine near Paternoster.

THE BEST wedding PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN AT Sea Trader, the ideal spot to get married on the rocks.

I ♥ Britannia Bay

OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT the beautiful grounds of Shelley Point Hotel Spa & Country Club or on horseback riding the shoreline.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO watch dolphins and seasonal whales in the bay and birds foraging in the rock pools.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO knuckle down and read up about our wonderful marine life in Dr Peter Best’s book, Whales & Dolphins of the Southern African Subregion.

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS winter months; we call this our “secret season”, BECAUSE the wind has abated and the bay is like a mirror. The nights can be chilly but the days are crystal-clear. And of course after good winter rains there’s the spectacle of seeing many hundreds of species of indigenous veld flowers that abound here in springtime.

I ♥ Britannia Bay

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS right here at Dolphin B&B+S/C of course!.
FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST Groenveld, a restored fishing vessel in Sandy Point Harbour.

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS the Swiss Deli & Bistro, TRY THE Daniel's Greek salad and those yummy mussel crepes, otherwise Connie at Beira Mar makes a great espatado.

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM Gull & Bell Pub & Grill it is also a great place TO MEET LOCALS.
MY FAVOURITE special dinner SPOT IS a table for two at Cattle Baron.

Britannia Bay’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS the long stretch of pristine coastline that attracts dozens of African Black Oystercatchers, one of the many species of migratory Palaerctic seabirds that breed here.

I ♥ Britannia Bay

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS go bird watching and tick up the myriad species that can be identified in the many nature reserves the West Coast has to offer.

FOR SOME CULTURE, I LIKE TO GO TO visit the West Coast Fossil Park and gaze through the window of antiquity at the remains of sabre-toothed tigers and the first bear found south of sub-Sahara.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO focus my telescope skywards and count the stars (and my luck!)..

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY diving for kreef (crayfish), walk the coastline through the Groot Paternoster Private Nature Reserve to Paternoster, or try and beat that little white ball (and your partner!) at a round of golf on the nearby 9-hole links.

I ♥ Britannia Bay

MY FAVOURITE DRIVE IS through West Coast National Park or to Tietiesbaai in Cape Columbine Nature Reserve.
MY FAVOURITE gift SHOP IS Lazy Catz Décor, run by Judy, where I might find a special piece of silver made by Karin of i-Treasure or one of Maggie’s handcrafted pottery bowls.

MY FAVOURITE whale and dolphin WATCHING SPOT IS Sandy Point Harbour.
IF YOU'RE HERE AT Easter or at the end of August, JOIN IN THE FUN AT the St Helena Bay Arts & Crafts & Food Markets. Winter visitors can marvel at the dexterity of the local fisherwomen vlekking seasonal snoek. Their cultural heritage is unique and the quaint tongue of the locals will bring a smile to the face of those who stop to savour their vernacular.

MY FAVOURITE BUILDING IS beacon perched on a rocky outcrop at Shelly Point.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS paint-balling at the Weskus Mall.

I ♥ Britannia Bay

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS looking for shells on the 7 km stretch of beach at Britannia Bay...
WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO be pampered at the wellness centre at the Shelley Point Hotel.

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING I SEE HERE are the granite rocks that enfold the town and are dotted in the calm waters of the bay.
MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS escaping to the stark and beautiful Cederberg Mountains, only a couple of hours’ drive away or Bird Island in Lambert’s Bay.

WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I work in a local soup kitchen. Last December the children put on the most wonderful carol-signing concert at Shelley Point Hotel which was their way of saying thanks to the community for its annual contributions.

I ♥ Britannia Bay BECAUSE whether it is to wonder at the splash of spring flowers and whales mid-year, or to amble along pristine beaches in summer, the holidaymaker can be assured of a ‘Weskus’ welcome … and you’re sure to have a whale of a time!

Dolphin B&B + S/C

Dolphin B&B+S/C

Dolphin B&B is the ideal base from which to explore the barren and yet fascinating West Coast. Whether it be to wonder at the splash of spring flowers and whales mid-year, or to amble along pristine beaches in summer, the holidaymaker can be assured of a ‘Weskus’ welcome.  The West Coast is renowned for its hospitality and seafood. It is also home to the ‘veldkool’ (Trachyandra ciliata) and ‘gousblom’ (Gazania krebsiana), two of the fine species of indigenous veld flowers that abound here in springtime.

Visit Dolphin B&B + S/C
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Cape Columbine Lighthouse: +27 (0)21 449‑2400
Sea Trader: +27 (0)83 744‑1133
Shelley Point Hotel: +27 (0)22 742‑1508
Swiss Deli and Bistro: +27 (0)76 798‑5182
Cattle Baron: +27 (0)22 742‑1394
Gull & Bell Pub & Grill: +27 (0)22 736‑1917
West Coast Fossil Park: +27 (0)22 766‑1606
West Coast National Park: +27 (0)22 772‑2144 / 5
Lazy Catz Décor: +27 (0)76 886‑4440

Have you vis­ited Britannia Bay? Why not tell us what you thought by sub­mit­ting a review. See: Britannia Bay Reviews

Britannia Bay Links:
Britannia Bay Attractions
Things to Do in Cape West Coast
Britannia Bay Self Catering
Britannia Bay Accommodation
Cape West Coast Events
Western Cape Accommodation
Western Cape Hotels

Comrades Marathon

If you are a sporting enthusiast or your New Year’s resolution is to take on the Comrades or Two Oceans this year, then we have a list of this weekend’s sporting events to help you with your training.

From marathons and half marathons to swimming, we have a number of sports events happening around South Africa to excite both serious athletes to recreational competitors.

We will keep you up to date with the latest events happening around the country, where you can add any new or upcoming events to your calendar.

So check back with us regularly to find out what new challenges can assist you in achieving your sporting goals ...

Events in Gauteng:

PnP Marathon

If you are training for Comrades then you should join us at the Pick ‘n Pay Marathon and Half Marathon which takes place in Senderwood, close to Bedfordview on Sunday 12 February 2012. The first 10 kilometres is a tough, rolling stretch and the second half of the lap incorporates several small inclines. This race has been placed in the top 50 best races overall and has been voted the 5th best marathon, its terrain will give you a good indication of how much more hill training work still needs to be done! Contact the race office on +27 (0)11 463 2743 for more information. Wondering where you need to be? The race starts at the Saheti School.

… see more events and fest­ivals at Gauteng Events

Events in KwaZulu Natal:

Midmar Mile

Head to the Midmar Dam north of Pietermaritzburg on Saturday 11 February 2012 for the Midmar Mile, the world's largest open water swimming event. This swimming event draws thousands of competitors each year, both serious international athletes and Olympic medallists to the recreational swimmer.

Marathon runners should head to leafy suburb of Hillcrest on Sunday 12 February 2012 for the Nimas Challenge which has been an old favourite on the KwaZulu Natal running calendar for many years. Start at the Hillcrest Sports Club for two laps of the 21.1km course. Contact Roy Uren on +27 (0)72 588‑7387 for more information.

… see more events and fest­ivals at KwaZulu Natal Events

Events in the Free State:

Kloppers / Adidas Festival

If you want to qualify for the Comrades or Two Oceans join us at the Kloppers / Adidas Festival of Running in Bloemfontein on Saturday 11 February 2012. This event is made up of a marathon and a half marathon and is normally the first Comrades and Two Oceans qualifier of the year in the Bloemfontein area. Starting from the Bloemfontein Achilles Sports Centre, contact Marijke de Wet on +27 (0)51 444‑5867 for more information.

… see more events and fest­ivals at Free State Events

If you can't wait to plan your year of festivals check our our full events section here: South Africa Events

Useful Planning Links:
South Africa Events
Things to do in South Africa
South Africa Hotels
South Africa Accommodation

I ♥ Kleinemonde

Hi, I’m Marlene from House Purfikt in Kleinemonde.

Kleinemonde IS BEST KNOWN FOR its fantastic white beach which stretches on forever. We also have two lagoons right next to one another … fantastic for swimming, canoe rides, fishing etc.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN ON the beach on a bright sunny day, the dunes & blue sea looks incredible!

THE BEST PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN AT Three Sisters rocks.

OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT the biggest Pineapple in the world in Bathurst.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO go for long walks on the beach, swim or just laze around on the deck at House Purfikt ... looking at the best view in the world.

I ♥ Kleinemonde

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO sleep late, read and watch some of the good DVD’s supplied to guests. If it’s windy I have great fun with the kites.

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS all year round, BECAUSE winter months are not very cold and the sunrise is beautiful. Long walks on the beach are also fantastic. It’s also nice to go horse riding on the beach or for game viewing from horseback. With all the Game farms around it’s also nice to go for a game drive (if you don’t like horses), or a sunset cruise at the Marina in Port Alfred. For the golfers we have the Gary Player designed golf course at Fish River Sun which is 9km away as well as the Royal Alfred golf course in Port Alfred.

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS the Fish River Sun.
FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST our local Pub/Restaurant Lala Lapa.

I ♥ Kleinemonde

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT in Port Alfred is Pub & Brewery on the Warf.
MY FAVOURITE local SPOT IS Lala Lapa in Kleinemonde.

FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY the Pig & Whistle in Bathurst, it’s also the oldest licensed pub in South Africa.

IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO our local Pub/Restaurant Lala Lapa.

Kleinemonde’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS is so peaceful & quiet here, it actually feels as though you’re on an island. During the year our permanent population is approx 150 people .

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY Anne’s bird watching tours, she knows all the best places to go.

I ♥ Kleinemonde

MY FAVOURITE place to SHOP IS at the Morning Markets at Kleinemonde & Bathurst where you can find delicious home made goodies.

MY FAVOURITE dolphin and whale WATCHING SPOT IS from the deck at House Purfikt.
IF YOU'RE HERE IN December, JOIN IN THE FUN AT yearly Ox Braai in Bathurst.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS taking them dune riding on the dune boards.

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING I SEE HERE IS that the beach is never crowded ….. not even on Christmas Day or New Year.

I ♥ Kleinemonde BECAUSE it is most certainly the best place if you want to get away from the mad rush, have peace & quiet and just recharge before heading back to your normal life.

House Purfikt

House Purfikt

This delightful wooden home is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac within 100 metres from the famous beach in Kleinemonde, Eastern Cape. The house has a 200 degree sea and lagoons panoramic view at the front and a view of the mountains at the back. Kleinemonde is in the heart of the Sunshine Coast and 15 km from Port Alfred on the road to East London. A public walkway next to the house provides easy access to the seafront.

Visit House Purfikt
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Biggest Pineapple: +27(0)46 625‑0515
Fish River Sun Golf Course: +27 (0)40 676‑1101
Royal Alfred Golf Course: +27 (0)46 624‑4796
Pub & Brewery on the Wharf: +27 (0)46 624‑1950
Pig & Whistle: +27 (0)46 625‑0673

Have you vis­ited Kleinemonde? Why not tell us what you thought by sub­mit­ting a review. See: Kleinemonde Reviews

Useful Links:
Kleinemonde Attractions
Kleinemonde Accommodation
Kleinemonde Self Catering
Sunshine Coast Accommodation
Eastern Cape Accommodation
Eastern Cape Hotels

Essence Cafe

Location plays a critical role in the success of any restaurant and Essence Café is most certainly well situated at Wetherlys Centre, probably the most upmarket location in the Pietermaritzburg CBD. On the day of my visit there were a number of luxury cars, including BMW’s, Mercedes Benz’s, Audi’s and even a Porsche gracing the centre’s parking bays – unmistakable proof that this venue is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the best meeting places for local business people.

Owner Martin Maltby named the restaurant ‘Essence’ because he believes the word encompasses the ‘soul’ of the business: “Good food, good friends and excellence,” and he certainly has devised a comprehensive menu that caters for just about everyone. From health breakfasts such as jungle oats to tasty offerings like crumpet stacks, pancakes, French toast, freshly baked croissants, Welsh rarebit and omelettes to name but a few, the early morning cuisine certainly sounded wonderful but having arrived just after one in the afternoon, the lunch menu was what I was most interested in.

A wide selection of open sandwiches, wraps, bagels, tramezzinis, salads and gourmet burgers cater for a variety of palates while ‘healthier options’ include the Sweet Chilli Fillet, Lemone Calamari, Rolled Chicken, Whai-Thai Curry and Pot Pie among other delectable dishes. With so many options and combinations to choose from deciding on what to have took some time, but I eventually selected the pot pie (R60) with a chicken filling and a phyllo pastry crust.

Although the portion was a little on the small side I thoroughly enjoyed the meal. It was truly delicious and expertly presented and the side salad that accompanied the dish was one of the most tasty I have ever had – no doubt attributed to the superb coriander and olive oil dressing.

For dessert I devoured a half portion of chocolate cake (R12) which admittedly was rather rich but by the same token, irresistibly good. Further dessert options included carrot cake, lemon meringue, chocolate brownies and a number of other mouth watering offerings that even the most disciplined diners would find hard to resist.

Seldom have I been as impressed with a meal as with what was served up to me at Essence Café. The quality of the ingredients and the care taken in the preparation of my dish was of a very high standard as was the service I received, although I have to say that my waiter could have been a little more enthusiastic at times.

Besides the great food, Essence Café also offers patrons an opportunity to relax and enjoy their meal while browsing through a wide selection of magazines or surfing the net on a wireless network. A number of books are also on sale at the café adding another dimension to the venue and giving it that extra appeal to potential customers.

So if you are looking to enjoy a scrumptious meal or an award winning cappuccino in a relaxing yet stimulating environment look no further than Essence Café. It’s the perfect spot to recharge your batteries or ponder your next business move and even if your favourite dish isn’t on the menu Martin will make sure that it’s made for you – provided the ingredients are available that is.

Essence Café is open from Monday’s to Friday’s from 7am to 5pm and on Saturday’s and Sunday’s from 8am to 2pm. However, the restaurant is also open for evening functions by prior arrangement.

Contact details:

Telephone: +27 (0)33 342‑9215
Physical address: 120 Victoria Rd, Wetherlys Centre, Pietermaritzburg

Useful Links:

Pietermaritzburg Attractions
Things to Do in Pietermaritzburg
Pietermaritzburg Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Hotels

I ♥ Menlo Park

Hi, I’m Anna Marie Pienaar from Cottage Guest House in Menlo Park, Pretoria.

Menlo Park IS BEST KNOWN FOR being very centrally located to Shopping Centres and the University of Pretoria and the Pretoria Country Golf Club.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT the Pretoria Country club, because of the beautiful gardens.
THE BEST PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN AT during October when the Jakarandas are blooming.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO go swimming, play tennis or play golf.
WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO visit the nice shopping Centres like Menlyn and Brooklyn.

I ♥ Menlo Park

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS from September to April, BECAUSE then you have the best weather in the world.  Nice summer days without any wind.

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS Delicious in 13th Street, Menlo Park.
FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST Cynthea’s in 22nd Street, Menlo Park.
MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS Cynthea’s, TRY THEIR fish dishes.

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM Crawdaddy’s.
MY FAVOURITE SPOT IS Flamingo Restaurant at the Bird Park in Groenkloof.

FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY Crawdaddy’s in Brooklyn.
IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO Cappuchino’s in Menlyn Shoping Centre.

I ♥ Menlo Park

Menlo Park’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS nice coffee at Cappuchino’s in Menlyn.
MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS go for coffee at Menlyn Shopping Centre.

FOR SOME CULTURE OR LIVE MUSIC, I LIKE TO GO TO the Barnyard Theatre at Menlyn Shopping Centre.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO go to the NG Church in Stella Street, Brooklyn.
IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY a visit to Hartebeespoort Dam which is about 50 km out of town.

MY FAVOURITE WALK IS in the Bird’s Park in Groenkloof.
MY FAVOURITE grocery SHOP IS the Super Spar in 13th Street, Menlo Park.

I ♥ Menlo Park

MY FAVOURITE WATCHING SPOT IS the Bird Park in Groenkloof.
IF YOU'RE HERE IN November, JOIN IN THE FUN AT the Hazel Food Christmas Market.

MY FAVOURITE MUSEUM IS the the Pretoria Museum.
MY FAVOURITE BUILDING IS the Union Building, FOR ITS history.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS a trip to the Cow’s Farm in Lyttleton.

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS going to the flea market at Magnolia Dal.
WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO go to the Blue Saffire Restaurant at the Country Club.

I ♥ Menlo Park BECAUSE it is the place to be!

Cottage Guest House

Cottage Guest House

This face brick double storey house is located in a pan-handle in the cul-de-sac side of 21st street just off Charles Street in Menlo Park. It is located between Atterbury Road and Charles Street and easy to find from the N1 highway. Guests can enjoy this fully furnished property consisting of two bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en-suite), lounge, dining room, smaller lounge, kitchen, study and DStv.

Visit Cottage Guest House
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Pretoria Country Club: +27 (0)12 460‑6241
Delicious: +27 (0)12 460‑7996
Cynthia's: +27 (0)12 460‑3220
Crawdaddy's: +27 (0)12 993‑1333
Cappuccino's: +27 (0)12 460‑4145
Barnyard Theatre Menlyn: +27 (0)12 368‑1555
Pretoria Museum: +27 (0)12 322‑7632

Have you vis­ited Menlo Park? Why not tell us what you thought by sub­mit­ting a review. See: Menlo Park Reviews

Useful Links
Menlo Park Attractions
Menlo Park Accommodation
Menlo Park Hotels
Pretoria Accommodation
Gauteng Accommodation
Gauteng Hotels

I ♥ Beaufort West

Hi, I’m Elsolique from Old House Guesthouse in Beaufort West.

Beaufort West IS BEST KNOWN FOR its unique Karoo hospitality.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT the Chris Barnard Museum; Chris Barnard was the famous heart surgeon who performed the worlds first heart transplant.

THE BEST Karoo PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN AT the Karoo National Park.

OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT our beautiful pear trees on the Main Road.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO be outside in the fresh Karoo air.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO visit friends.

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS in the winter, BECAUSE our summers have extreme heat.

I ♥ Beaufort West

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS the local Wimpy — you cannot go wrong with a Wimpy breakfast!

FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST Karushi.

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS Old Thatch, TRY THE seafood and hunchback steak.

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM Steers.

MY FAVOURITE relaxing SPOT IS on top of the Nuweveld Mountains.

FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY the Old Thatch.

IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO the Old Thatch.

I ♥ Beaufort West

Beaufort West’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS our lovely olives — you will have to try them!

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS to drive quad bikes.

FOR SOME CULTURE , I LIKE TO GO TO Karushi where they can organise KwaMadlenkosi Cultural Tours.

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY the 4 x 4 rides in the Karoo National Park.

MY FAVOURITE DRIVE IS through the Karoo National Park.

MY FAVOURITE local artist SHOP IS Yster Plyster Gallery.

MY FAVOURITE bird WATCHING SPOT IS the Karoo National Park.

I ♥ Beaufort West

IF YOU'RE HERE IN March, JOIN IN THE FUN AT the Beaufort West Agricultural Show.

MY FAVOURITE MUSEUM IS the Chris Barnard Museum. CHECK OUT THE tools used in the first heart transplant.

MY FAVOURITE BUILDING IS the City Hall, FOR ITS age.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS the local Spur.

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS paintball at Paint Ball Adventure.

WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO drive into the mountains and stop to have a picnic wherever I want!

MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS Mossel Bay.

WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I give them work.

I ♥ Beaufort West BECAUSE it's home.

Old House Guesthouse

Old House Luxury Guesthouse

Close your eyes and take a deep breath, can you feel it? The fresh air, it’s like you can’t get enough. Can you smell it? It’s the fresh flowers in our beautiful garden. Have a delicious breakfast looking out over the garden watching birds bathing in the fountain, hearing the bee’s buzz in the trees. At Old House Luxury Guest House everyone will go out of their way to make you feel at home. Have a fabulous dinner in our dining room, or braai under the bright stars, like you’ve never seen before. You can have a good nights rest in a room that will make you feel like a King.

Visit Old House Luxury Guesthouse
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Chris Barnard Museum: +27 (0)23 415‑2308
Karushi: +27 (0)87 751‑9748
Old Thatch: +27 (0)23 414‑2209

Have you vis­ited Beaufort West? Why not tell us what you thought by sub­mit­ting a review. See: Beaufort West Reviews

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Up The Creek

If you haven’t thought about what you’re going to do next week, we’ve come up with a list of some of the most exciting events that will be taking place. We will now be giving you a weekly round up of the upcoming events and festivals throughout South Africa.

We will keep you up to date with the hip and happening events that you can attend. Think sports, entertainment, culture and more. Break out your diaries and start phoning your friends to make sure you don't miss out.

There are a host of fun events that take place every week and we really don't want you to be the last person to hear about them at the coffee station on Monday morning. So check back with us on Fridays to find out what's going on ...

Events in the Western Cape:

Castle Cape Town Tens

Head to the Breede River in Swellendam from 2–5 February 2012 for Up The Creek Music Festival. Enjoy live music and entertainment from some of the hottest South African acts in town, you can look forward to Kongos, aKing, Akkedis, Black Cat Bones, Blues Broers, Cameron Bruce, City Bowl Mizers, Fox Comet, The Great Apes and many more.  To buy your tickets, or for any enquiries, phone Ann Sowden on +27 (0)21 510‑0547.

Join the popular Castle Cape Town Tens at Hamilton Rugby Club, Green Point from 3–4 February 2012 for an exciting sporting event for rugby fans including a music line-up, appearances from local and international rugby legends, competitions and giveaways, and a new addition, an exciting rugby expo. The live entertainment will include the popular group Goodluck, The Graeme Watkins Project, The Lightyears and Me and Mr Brown. Tickets are available from Computicket.

Herald Cycle Tour

For classical and contemporary chamber music, popular choir works and jazz lovers travel to Darling from 3–12 February 2012 to enjoy and experience the Darling Music Experience. The venues for the concerts vary between Darlings lovely old Presbyterian Church, the modern Vereenigende Reformeerde Kerk, a picturesque wine estate and a factory turned music hall.

… see more events and fest­ivals at Western Cape Events

Events in the Eastern Cape:

If you are in the Eastern Cape and a keen mountain bike rider why not head to the Addo for the Herald Cycle Tour on 4 February. This year's event has a brand new 85km Feature Race taking riders through some extremely technical terrain, and you may even get the chance to spot one of the mighty Addo elephants along the route.

… see more events and fest­ivals at Eastern Cape Events

Events in Gauteng:

Bridal Indaba

The most memorable day in the life of most people is their wedding day and this year’s Bridal Indaba on 4 & 5 February 2012 at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways, Sandton will make every brides dream a reality! Along with the designer fashion show there are exhibitions to assist brides-to-be in planning her special day with bridal workshops, that will include presentations by wedding specialists on all aspects to ensure a beautiful day.

Take a Sunday drive on 5 February 2012 towards the Lovers Rock Family Resort, Rustenburg Road (R24), Magaliesberg, to come and see the 2012 Lovers Rock Annual Vintage and Classic Car Show. Between 150 and 200 of the finest motor cars will be on display, so pack your picnic basket and swimming gear for an enjoyable day out. Make your way to the venue from 08h00 to 18h00 and bring some cash because there will be food stalls and a tuck shop.

McCarthy Toyota Half

Lace up your running shoes to join us at the McCarthy Toyota Half Marathon and 10km run at Rietondale Park, Riviera in Pretoria on Saturday 4 February 2012. Walkers are also welcome with refreshments and kid’s entertainment is on offer. Telephone Hank Bezuidenhout on +27 (0)12 993‑1356 for further details.

If you are even more energetic you can head to the Sasol Marathon and Half Marathon Saturday 4 February 2012 which starts at the Flavius Mareka College Sport Stadium and the route is run through the residential, industrial and commercial areas of Sasolburg. Contact Dolf on +27 (0)16 960 3544 for more information.

… see more events and fest­ivals at Gauteng Events

Events in Limpopo:

Berry Festival

Come and visit Haenertsburg village in Limpopo 3–5 February 2012 for a long weekend of family fun, picking, eating and enjoying delicious, healthy berries at the Berry Festival. The following farms will be taking part in this year's Berry Festival, Cheerio Gardens and Blueberry Heights for blueberries and Kuhestan Organic Farm for raspberries. Contact Shahrzad on +27 (0)82 903‑7593 for tours or Linda on +27 (0)82 575‑5738 for Village attractions.

… see more events and fest­ivals at Limpopo Events

If you can't wait to plan your year of festivals check our our full events section here: South Africa Events

Useful Planning Links:
South Africa Events
Things to do in South Africa
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Obesa Cacti Nursery

You either get it, or you don't. With the Obesa Cactus Nursery. Although describing it as a 'nursery' hardly does the experience justice. For a visit here, if you allow it, is far more of an experience than it is a simple trip to the nursery to pick up a cactus or two for your window sill.

First of all the 'nursery' takes up the better part of a block. For those of you who want to find it, hunt down the street dominated by a myriad psychedelically painted houses. They're a series of guest houses that go by the same name as the nursery (run by Johan's ex-wife, who remains a fan despite that). The nursery is directly across the road, and all over the pavement, and, if you look around you, on just about every available piece of ground.

That this is the work of a man with a passion is obvious. Having lived with a gardening nut who has transformed the better part of our city garden into a wild vegetable mandala, I think I can handle it.

I enter the gardens on one of those ridiculously hot days (and it isn't even February) reserved typically for little towns in the Karoo. Not a breath of wind stirs, sweat slithers down my face as I hide under a large hat, my arms protected from the sun by a linen blouse that feels rather as though I've encased myself in a furnace.

All thought of my discomfort vanishes, however, as we enter the nursery. So as not to totally overwhelm a mini 'nursery' is what greets one first, set under shadecloth. Johan, his grey hair drawn back in a ponytail under a sorry excuse for a hat, his wild woolly grey beard slightly yellowed from years of smoking, shakes my hand and welcomes me, his distinctly blue eyes an indication of his obvious intelligence and knowledge of plants.

At first he's slightly reticent, in a warm kind of way, sending me on a walk through the cacti, brushing off any questions. He point blank refuses a photograph. The only one of him, he says, is the one in his ID book. I think I'm going to like this man.

I've already done an internet trawl on the nursery and know there isn't much there. On his own website Johan speaks about himself simply as CJ Bouwer and says very little about himself and his passion, bar the fact that he knows cacti (the pictures alone are worth looking at). Nothing quite prepares you for the real thing.

Photographs — Left: What colour / Right: Spiky bundles

For the cacti gardens at Obesa are art. It's like outsider art. Along the lines of the Owl House, but in plants. Not only that, it also extends for miles (okay, slight exaggeration on my part, but we're not talking a mere nursery here). There are at least ten hectares' worth of cacti, and nothing to distract one except the intense blue of the Karoo sky.

As I begin to gently walk through the cacti, careful not to catch my flimsy skirt on any of the needle like projections that masquerade as thorns, I am joined by an avid cacti collector who deems himself something of a connoisseur. In typical Gauteng fashion he manages to give me a running commentary about his pursuit of cacti and former visit to the garden, photograph the plants he hasn't yet managed to capture, and chat on his cell phone.

I'm just wondering whether or not he's actually enjoying any of this, when his wife calls and obviously declines to join him. He's off and I get to enjoy the space in quiet. It deserves to be taken slowly and appreciated. As I said originally: you either get it, or you don't. And I imagine quite a few people don't.

Johan has spent the better part of forty years planting cacti. The place is a labyrinth – small pathways interspersed with huge, towering cacti, then around the next corner an entire garden's worth of little, fat, spiky cacti, euphorbs and caudiciforms. And so it continues. The place is ablaze with aloes, rare and endangered and Madagascan succulents and more.

Johan initially began by collecting haworthias and seeds, followed soon by a series of lithops, and then every and any seed he could lay his hands on. That he has green fingers is obvious, as the place is literally crawling with plants.

Everything is in flower too, something we're incredibly lucky to witness. The flowers come 10 days after rain, and last but 5 days. I later learn that some cacti only open their flowers in the exception, whilst others can only fully open for two hours at night. But the flowers here have either just flowered or have been open for a day or two, so I get the full benefit.

Photographs — Left: Little boxes on the hillside / Right: Cactus flowers in bloom

I walk for ages, drinking in the different arrangements of these sometimes huge, sometimes little plants that can take the punishing heat of the Karoo, and hook up with my son and husband, who have been the entire way around the cacti at least twice. My six-year old is already chatting nine to the dozen about the cacti he wants for his garden bed at home. Am I destined to have two plant fanatics to deal with?

Hard to believe but Johan is a lawyer by trade. You would never say that the hippy I see infront of me, moonlights in the courts (or is it the other way around?). Whilst cacti are his life's passion, he's needed to earn to put his three children through school and university. And the beauty of the garden helps take his mind off some of the less savoury aspects of his work in the criminal world.

Over-and-above my respect for the incredible cacti jungle he's single-handedly produced, I'm amazed that he manages to juggle the two professions that seem so diametrically opposed. Most artists need to indulge or totally immerse themselves in their work to achieve anything. And yet here we stand in amongst a lifetime's part-time work.

Johan smiles and nods. The garden has only been open to the public for six years. “People visiting from other countries complained” he quips, “it was time to share it”.

I for one, am glad he does. By now my son is awkwardly staggering towards us, his arms laden with little succulents he's selected. I'm busy swatting off the mosquitos that have decided they may as well dine in style. Johan declines to accept money for the plants. “I don't charge children for anything,” he says.

We part at the gateway to the garden and nursery, having made a friend.

The name 'Obesa' is derived from the euphorbia obesa plant that is indigenous to the Kendrew area, which lies in the Graaff-Reinet district. It is protected by the World Succulent Society, and it's common name used to be 'kafferhutjie' because of its similarity to to an African hut.

Photographs — Left: Scale the heights / Right: Succulents a growing

Directions to Obesa:

Iin Graaff Reinet, drive south down Church Street, turn left into Bresler Street, where the massive white signboard says: 'Obesa Wholesale Nursery'.

Useful Links:

• Graaff-Reinet Attractions
• Graaff Reinet Map
• Graaff Reinet Accommodation
• Graaff Reinet Hotels
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I ♥ Chartwell

Hi, I’m Alan from Hoopoe Haven Guest House in Chartwell, in Sandton.

Chartwell IS BEST KNOWN FOR its country atmosphere and living. All plots are from 2.5 to 10 acres in size, so it is very peaceful. The Lion Park is on the border of Chartwell West 1 km away as the crow flies and just 5 km south is the busy metropolis of fourways with lots of malls and shops, MonteCasino and plenty of activity like live theatre, ice rink, extravaganzas, bird park etc. Chartwell is a place where you can relax and just enjoy yourself.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT Lion park where you are allowed to touch and play with the lion cubs.
THE BEST holiday PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN AT birdpark in MonteCasino.
OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT any of the riding stables in Chartwell or even going for a horse ride at the Rhino and Lion park.

I ♥ Chartwell

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO have a braai in the state of the art communal braai area at Hoopoe Haven Lodge.
WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO curl up in the lounge of hoopoe haven lodge with a huge fire burning.

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS all year round, BECAUSE the temperature is very moderate. We have relatively mild winters and the summer is very pleasant and not too hot (max about 30 degrees).

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS Hoopoe Haven Lodge we do a really good full English breakfast for our guests and being the owner it is free to me.

FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST Mugg and Bean at Broadacres.

I ♥ Chartwell

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS Aleks Kitchen in Chartwell North, TRY THE eisbein. Also for an evening out there is the Chiefs Boma at the Indaba Hotel with a magnificent buffet and tribal dancing or one of the world class restaurants in the Montecasino complex .

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM one of the Broadacres take aways like Fish and Chip co, Nandos, Grey Wolf Spur, KFC etc. Most of them will deliver to Hoopoe Haven.
MY FAVOURITE SPOT IS the bird gardens at MonteCasino.

FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY a bit of a gambling at the casino followed by an extravaganza or live theatre and a good meal, all at the MonteCasino complex.
IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO the Virgin Active Gym at Cedar Square or one of the many pubs in the area.

I ♥ Chartwell

Chartwell’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS the fact that it is so peaceful here, even though you are only 5 kms away from one of the fastest growing business areas in South Africa (Fourways).

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS swim in the crystal clear pool at Hoopoe Haven lodge followed by a braai while the children play in our landscaped gardens and lawns.

FOR SOME CULTURE / LIVE MUSIC, I LIKE TO GO TO the Pieter Toerien Theatre at MonteCasino for live theatre or to the Teatro for an extravaganza like the ‘Nutcracker on Ice’ or ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ or whatever is on at the time.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO just sit in the shade on the lodge balcony and watch the birdlife and really great sunsets while downing a cool Castle Lager.

I ♥ Chartwell

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY horseback riding at the Rhino and Lion park or even go on a hot air balloon ride (very expensive but I believe it is well worth it) or maybe go elephant back riding at Hartebeestpoort Dam, or a visit to De Wildt Cheetah Park about 35km away.

MY FAVOURITE DRIVE IS to the Cradle of Humankind and Hartebeestport Dam on the crocodile ramble.

MY FAVOURITE food SHOP IS the world class award winning Super Spa in Broadacres just 1 km down the road. You can buy virtually everything you would need for our self-catering cottages there at a very reasonable price and they also have some really good freshly prepared hot meals for take aways.

I ♥ Chartwell

MY FAVOURITE bird WATCHING SPOT IS by the koi pond at Hoopoe Haven Lodge Annex at 04h30 when we feed the birds.

IF YOU'RE HERE IN October, JOIN IN THE FUN AT the annual Chartwell fun run.
MY FAVOURITE PARK IS the MonteCasino bird gardens. CHECK OUT THE scarlet ibis.
MY FAVOURITE BUILDING IS MonteCasino, FOR ITS gambling, restaurants and live theatre.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS a trip to the Northgate ice rink or playing with the lion cubs at either the lion park or rhino and lion nature reserve.

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS a local horse ride around Chartwell.
WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO splurge out on a really good meal at the Meat company in MonteCasino or go elephant back riding at Hartebeestpoort Dam.

I ♥ Chartwell

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING I SEE HERE IS a Giant African Bullfrog. The Chartwell wetlands are it’s fourth most important breeding area. It is HUGE.
MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS going on the crocodile ramble, but you might try the crocodile park 5 km away or Lesedi Cultural Village 25 km away or the Cradle of Humankind where Mrs Ples was discovered.

WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I try to plant bird friendly indigenous trees and plants to encourage the bird life in the area. There are over 50 different resident birds at Hoopoe Haven Lodge and have seen another 50 or so visitors like the giant eagle owl, crimson breasted shrike, etc.

Chartwell is so conveniently situated that you could spend a month here and go on a different outing every day.

I ♥ Chartwell BECAUSE of the country atmosphere and peace and quiet and the fact it is so close to so many activities.

Hoopoe Haven

Hoopoe Haven Guest House

Hoopoe Haven is a small and peaceful country guest house, situated in beautiful Chartwell, but it is just a stones throw away from Montecasino, Lion Park, 3 shopping malls, Lanseria Airport, live theatre and nearby Cradle of Humankind, Coca-Cola Dome, Lesedi Cultural Village just to name a few highlights. Hoopoe Haven is positioned on 2 acres of landscaped gardens in the countryside with horse trails around and a beautiful view of the Magaliesberg Mountains.

Visit Hoopoe Haven Guest House
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Lion Park: +27 (0)11 691‑9905
MonteCasino: +27 (0)11 510‑7000
Mugg & Bean Broadacres: +27 (0)11 465‑0155
Aleks Kitchen: +27 (0)11 460‑1470 / +27 (0)72 023‑0773
Chiefs Boma: +27 (0)11 840‑6600
Virgin Active Gym at Cedar Square: +27 (0)11 467‑2366
Hot Air Ballooning: +27 (0)84 602‑3491
De Wildt Cheetah Centre: +27 (0)12 504‑9906 / 7 / 8
North Gate Ice Park: +27 (0)11 794‑8706

Have you vis­ited Chartwell? Why not tell us what you thought by sub­mit­ting a review. See: Chartwell Reviews

Chartwell Links:
Chartwell Attractions
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Sandton Accommodation
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Gauteng Accommodation

Reinet House

Stop your car on the outskirts of town on the Camdeboo Mountain Drive and below you will lie the circular shape of Graaff-Reinet, held within a generous bend of the Sundays River closest to you, and the mountains of the Sneeuberg in the background. It's a glorious setting, to say the least.

Depending upon the time of year that you go, it will either be mercilessly hot (at least 40 degrees in the shade if the last couple of summers are anything to go by) or really cold (during winter).

Neither of which should act as a deterrent, for the town is not only beautiful, it is also pretty large as far as Karoo towns go, full of a rich history (it's the fourth oldest town in the country after Cape Town, Stellenbosch and Swellendam) and it has countless places to visit and things to do.

And just about everyone is equipped with air-conditioning and heaters anyway (they're geared for visitors).

Graaff-Reinet lies within the heart of the Grassy Karoo, closest to the towns of Aberdeen (which is in the Nama Karoo) and Cradock. It's a little off the beaten track for us en route to Bloemfontein, but we need little excuse to divert from the monotony of the N1 to head back to a town we haven't visited in, oh, eleven years.

You will know the town by its gorgeous Dutch Reformed Church (yes, I know most towns have prominent NG churches, but this one is indeed marvellous) modelled on the architecture of the Salisbury Cathedral in England, a stone Victorian Gothic Grootkerk that you cannot miss, as Church Street has to bypass it by way of a traffic circle.

Here follows a series of our top activities when in Graaff-Reinet:

Historical buildings

Town is peppered with an array of historical buildings and museums — at least thirty of them, each marked with a special plaque. But if you're not that much of a history buff or don't have the time to explore it at length, at least take in Parsonage Street and Stretch's Court.

Parsonage Street, Graaff-Reinet's most historical street, at the end of which stands the beautiful Reinet House, is also lined with The Residency, the John Rupert 'Little Theatre', Rupert House and a feast of restored buildings that now function as upmarket office space for lawyers and the like, or accommodation.

And Stretch's Court, which now serves as alternative accommodation for the Drostdy Hotel, is a series of beautifully restored Karoo cottages that were the homes of labourers and emancipated slaves.

(An illustrated historical guide by Tony Westby-Nunn is available from McNaughtons bookshop on Church Street at a mere R95 – well worth it, if you're going to explore the town on foot).

Photographs — Left: Groot Kerk / Right: Valley of Desolation

Valley of Desolation

Graaff-Reinet is enclosed within the Camdeboo National Park. We were pleased to give our Wild Card an airing, although it necessitated a stop at the park's office as we had lost the letter which served as proof of our having a Wild Card, the card proper not yet having been posted.

That the Valley of Desolation is called a 'valley' is something of a misnomer, as it isn't really a valley at all, but an incredible geological phenomenon that is a series of sheer cliff faces made up of dolerite columns that stand as high as 120 metres. Or perhaps the valley is the space below the columns into which swallows dive?

It lies just 14 kilometres outside of town (historical documents describe it as a mere walk, a day's outing, but in truth, I wouldn't like to have to walk here from town), in the Camdeboo National Park. The drive is along a rather steep road up to a couple of view points and picnic areas, the second of which brings one to the columns themselves, formed as a result of erosive and volcanic forces. You can hike here, but the most popular time is sundowners, when the heat of the day is over, and the sun plays magic across the face of the dolerite cliffs.

Nieu-Bethesda

Beautiful Nieu-Bethesda used to be something of an insider secret, but these days it's part of an offical 'Owl Route', and is firmly part of the local tourism. Despite this, the town has managed to retain its dust roads, has little development other than a couple of municipal buildings and a few new homes, and a series of attractions other than the Owl House (although this remains its major calling card).

We can recommend visits to: the Owlhouse Foundation on Martin Street (as you enter town), the Melting Pot restaurant, and The brewery and Two Goats deli on Pienaar Street for refreshing beer and organic cheeses, across Gats River (although in summer there isn't even a hint of water). There is a village market on every Saturday, various restaurants, the Kitching Fossil Centre, a bookshop, a women's co-op and other hidden gems.

Photographs — Left: Helen Martin's Museum / Right: Stretch's Court

Obesa cactus nursery and garden

Set just across the road from the really bright buildings of the Obesa Lodge, the Obesa nursery is a must-do, even if cacti have no meaning to you, and an absolute must if you're even remotely in-love with these succulents. Whilst the nursery stocks some incredible options to take home with you, it is the garden that will astonish you. Ten acres of land are filled with cacti of every description, laid out in an artistic, loving and delightful way. It has taken Johan 40 years to achieve this and, whilst it is done for his own pleasure, visitors now get to benefit too (six years ago you wouldn't have been able to share, as it was closed to the public).

Camdeboo National Park

Don't tell anyone, but there is a secret spot to swim when the heat hits. If you follow the road out of town to the Camdeboo National Park in the direction of the airstrip, you can take the second dirt road (I think, but don't quote me on this) to the left down towards the dam. Actually anywhere along the Nqweba dam (used to be the Van Ryneveld's Dam) is going to allow you to cool off. Whilst the Valley of Desolation is the main attraction of the Park, it definitely is not all there is to see of the reserve. There are 43 mammals that include black wildebeest and various antelope, Cape mountain zebra (although they're pretty elusive), bat-eared foxes and meerkat, as well as a fantastic array of birds (so good that there is a birding weekend in March 2012).

Photographs — Left: The entrance to Obesa / Right: Little Theater, Parsonage Street

Have you visited Graaf-Reinet? Why not tell us what you thought by submitting a review. See: Graaff-Reinet Reviews

Useful Links

• Graaff-Reinet Attractions
• Graaff Reinet Map
• Graaff Reinet Accommodation
• Graaff Reinet Hotels
• Eastern Cape Accommodation

I ♥ Kamberg

Hi, I’m Gerhard from Qambathi Mountain Lodge in Kamberg.

Kamberg IS BEST KNOWN FOR its Bushman Rock Art, fly-fishing and breathtaking mountain scenery.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT Highmoor or on one of our game drives with Giant’s Castle in the background. The views are really something special with Mount Eskirne and Mount Cleopatra very dominant everywhere you look.

THE BEST nature PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN by just driving around Kamberg. There are so many treed lanes, wild flowers, cloud shapes and Berg views for that perfect picture.

OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT the trout dams or at the Bushman Rock art which is the best preserved in the country.

I ♥ Kamberg

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO take a hike through our natural forest or up the mountain.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO read a book around the log fire in the lodge or sit on the chill deck and watch the weather play out.

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS during the summer months, BECAUSE of the beautiful scenery and also during the winter months for those glorious mid-winter days and night time log fires.

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS under the trees in the garden — there are always plenty of birds around.

FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST taking a picnic in the forest, next to the river or trying one of the many Midlands restaurants.

I ♥ Kamberg

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS Firkin's at Nottingham Road for some German cuisine or the lamb curry at Rawdons Hotel.

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM our kitchen!

MY FAVOURITE Midlands SPOT IS Abingdon Wines for wine tasting and a superb mezze platter.

FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY the Notties Hotel.

IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO The Knackered Swan at the Kamberg Store with John and Joe.

Kamberg’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS the secluded and underdeveloped beauty of the valley.

I ♥ Kamberg

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS to take a game drive up the mountain and enjoy a snack platter while enjoying the views with a glass of wine.

FOR SOME CULTURE, I LIKE TO GO TO one of the many concert evenings on in the Midlands.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO sit in the river at the waterfall in our natural forest on the reserve.

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY hot air ballooning on offer in the valley.

MY FAVOURITE DRIVE IS up Highmoor where fantastic views and waterfalls are to be seen.

MY FAVOURITE wine SHOP IS Abingdon Wines.

I ♥ Kamberg

IF YOU'RE HERE IN May, JOIN IN THE FUN AT the annual Kamberg Trout Festival or Glengarry Mountain Bike Challenge.

MY FAVOURITE GALLERY IS The Knackered Swan. CHECK OUT THE Bushman Rock Art Centre at Kamberg Nature Reserve.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS taking a hike to the top of the Plato at Highmoor — enjoy the waterfalls, dams and stunning views. You can also take a horse ride at Drakensberg Excursions with Heidi and Patrick.

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS going fly-fishing at Brackenburn Dams in the valley with Attie and Avol.

WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO take a helicopter flip around the Drakensberg.

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING I SEE HERE IS the number of stars visible on a clear evening.

WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I support the local community school feeding programme.

Other: On offer in the valley is Bushman Rock Art, fly-fishing, nine-hole golf, horse riding, hot air ballooning, game drives and hikes. Kamberg is situated in close proximity to all the offerings of The Midlands Meander.

I ♥ Kamberg BECAUSE of the beautiful nature, being secluded and friendly people.

Qambathi Mountain Lodge

Qambathi Mountain Lodge

Looking for something different in the Drakensberg, visit Qambathi Mountain Lodge, situated on Qambathi Mountain Reserve, in the beautiful Kamberg Valley. The lodge is situated at the foot of the mountain in a spectacular garden and with magnificent views. Original art forms an integral part of the exclusive handmade furniture and decor used, setting new standards in the Midlands and Drakensberg.

Visit Qambathi Mountain Lodge
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Rawdons Hotel: +27 (0)33 267 7370
Abingdon Wines: +27 (0)33 234 4335

Useful Links:
Kamberg Guest Houses
Kamberg Self Catering
Kamberg Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Hotels
Drakensberg Accommodation

I ♥ Mkuze

Hi, I’m Nicky Kinnell from Leopard Mountain Game Lodge in Mkuze.

Mkuze IS BEST KNOWN FOR Game Reserves and Conservation. The village of Mkuze is a mere 18km’s from the entrance gate to the Mkuze Reserve, in the shadow of the Ubombo Mountains.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT the reserve — the bird and animal life is spectacular. There are also over 700 plant species

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO go bird watching — with the species we have in this area I will more than likely spot something special.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO indulge in a massage.

I ♥ Mkuze

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS spring, BECAUSE the weather is not at its hottest (and it can get really hot) and the baby antelope have been born.

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS a picnic in the game reserve. What a great way to start the day!

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS the Mkuze Country Club, TRY THE superb food.

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM the One Stop Garage — you can't beat their pies!

MY FAVOURITE game viewing SPOT IS the Zululand Rhino Reserve.

FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY the country club.

I ♥ Mkuze

IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO the country club. You will more than likely hear an interesting story, or two.

Mkuze’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS is the Zululand Rhino Reserve. The reserve, a partnership between the World Wildlife Fund and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife was created in 1995 to create a haven for the black rhino.

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS to go bird-watching.

FOR SOME CULTURE, I LIKE TO join a community tour. A great way to give back and to learn about the community.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO I like to take a trip to the pans and read my book under the huge fig trees. There are two pans, Nhlonhlela and Nsumo and they are home to hippo, crocs, ducks, geese and pelicans!

I ♥ Mkuze

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY Big 5 Walking Safaris.

MY FAVOURITE WALK IS a Big 5 Guided Walk with Zululand Walking Safaris.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS to the Mkuze Game Reserve — see how many animals you can spot in an hour!

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS picnicking in the reserves.

WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO fly along the coast line.

MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS camping at Mabibi.

WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I do collections for the local school we are involved with.

I ♥ Mkuze BECAUSE we are central to many Big 5 reserves, amazing beaches for snorkelling and diving close by, we have cultural villages, extreme sports, Big 5 walks, an amazing bird count ... and this all comes with fantastic weather!

Leopard Mountain Game Lodge

Leopard Mountain, a multiple award game lodge is set in the 23 000 hectare Zululand Rhino Reserve. Located between Hluhluwe and Mkuze Game Reserves it is within easy reach of Ndumo, Kosi Bay, Sodwana, Lake Sibaya and the St Lucia wetlands. Enjoy total peace and tranquility and warm friendly hospitality at our exceptionally beautiful lodge which has the most spectacular views in Zululand from the river meandering below to the distant Lebombo Mountains.

Visit Leopard Mountain Game Lodge
View Rates or make a Booking

Useful Links:
Mkuze Guest Houses
Mkuze Self Catering
Mkuze Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Hotels

West Coast Beach

Think West Coast, think sand, heat, sea and little fresh water. And you wouldn't be far off the mark. The West Coast is arid, wild and windswept, but it does have water.

And one of the major sources of water available that makes farming possible, in the arid Sandveld and undulating hills of the Swartland, is the Berg River — its source in the Drakenstein Mountains just south of Franschhoek and its mouth at Laaiplek on the Atlantic Ocean.

In the presence of the Berg River (more commonly known amongst locals as the Bergrivier – one word) the towns of the West Coast between Velddrif and Elands Bay and their inland counterparts – Aurora, Redelingshuys, Goedverwacht, Eendekuil, Piketberg, Porterville and Wittewater — are awash with beautiful mountains, lush vineyards, wheat fields and picturesque villages; a complete contrast to the picture one holds of the West Coast and its accompanying sandscapes.

A Lazy Day in Laaiplek

A weekend away in the Berg River Region is simply a case of packing the car and heading up the R27 without a stop until one reaches the town of Velddrif – a trip of little more than a couple of hours. The new(ish) Weskus Mall in Vredenburg means that you don't even have to stock up with essentials beforehand.

Conversely, the N7 to Piketberg or Porterville is an equally easy drive and delivers one to the heart of the Swartland, parallel to the accompanying West Coast town of Velddrif, joined at the hip to Piketberg by the R399.

Between these two towns is a weekend of adventure filled with wine farms, a mission village or two, hiking trails, bike and 4X4 trails, the chance to paraglide off a mountain, and consistent sightings of the blue crane.

In short, here is what you can expect from some of the little towns in the region:

Aurora

Beautiful Aurora

An incredibly pretty little Sandveld village, Aurora lies just inland from Velddrif, popular amongst retirees and weekend visitors. It isn't big, but it is worth a visit, not just for its location but also for its history – it is named after the first Dutch Reformed minister's daughter, Ceylonia Aurora Ferreira.

• Find out about how the French astronomer-geodesist,  Abbé Nicolas de le Caille, set up an observatory here in which he asserted that the shape of the Earth is pear-shaped
• Take a hike through and around town and look out for the protea canary or the vibrant bee-eaters
• Check out the stars – lie on your back at night and breathe in the heavens
• Seek out Aurora's home-made rusks and find a cup of coffee in which to dunk them
• Eat at Helmut Wokalek's restaurant
• Stroll the streets and look out for pretty little Sandveld huisies

For more information about Aurora read here: Aurora — A Visitors Perspective

Goedverwacht

Klok se Poort

The Eden-like Moravian mission village of Goedverwacht lies in an enviable position right on its very own little stream that springs out of the surrounding hills. The coloured village's saving grace is the focus on community life and the village's youth, most of whom return, after a brief stint in Cape Town to gather some form of higher education, to the town. The church, the school and many of the buildings through the village are over 100 years old.

• Head to the Snoek en Patat coffee shop – for information, chats with the locals and keys to the old Water Mill Museum
• Hike the Peerboom (pear tree) hiking route – specially developed by locals to include the old graveyard, the mountains behind the old village and on to the nearby village of Wittewater (ask for a guide)
• Although not well sign posted, ask about self-catering accommodation, the village recently built a couple of wonderful spots
• Hike the Klok se Poort hiking route
• Visit the town's incredible gardens – including a myriad fruit trees – and organic vegetable gardens
• Visit in time for the annual June Snoek en Patat Fees – this year attracted 10 000 visitors

For accommodation near Goedverwacht see: Swartland Accommodation

Eendekuil

The Cape West Coast

More honestly described in terms of a hamlet than a town, Eendekuil (not called 'duck pond' for nothing) is nonetheless worth a visit, if for nothing other than the incredible views of the surrounds from here.  On the R365 north of Piketberg, Eendekuil lies just below the Swartberg along the railway line (not the rather noisy Saldanha Sishen line) that was originally built as a link between the copper mines at O'Kiep in Namaqualand and Cape Town. History books show that another team got there first, linking O'Kiep to Port Nolloth. Nonetheless, a passenger train called the 'Doekvoet Flyer' regularly carried a great many people to and from Eendekuil.

• Breathe in the views
• Stay in the vicinity of the railway line with only the occasional Eendekuil church bell ring to disturb you
• Visit two of the original farms in the area – Goedemanskraal and Rhenosterhoek
• Visit the local cheese factory – well known for cheddar and gouda. Milk is delivered from local dairy farms
• The Eendekuil hotel is a popular spot for bikers

For accommodation near Eedekuil see: Swartland Accommodation

Piketberg

Perfect Piketberg

Originally called Piquetberg, Piketberg lies just off the N7 in the foothills of the Piketberg Mountains, a low range of sandstone mountains on the top of which one can grow fruit and rooibos tea; the bottom is more suited to wheat farming as the local farms prove. The area is steeped in San history and rock paintings are easily viewable in the surrounding hills and mountains. The town serves as a business hub for surrounding farmers and smaller towns in the area (residents of Goedverwacht, for instance, work in Piketberg and Porterville).

• Visit Voelvleibos for a perfect picnic setting in amongst a wood of wild olive trees
• Attend the Piket-Bo-Berg farmers' market on the last Saturday of every month
• Visit the Piketberg Museum with a series of rather impressive archives, Anglo-Boer War exhibits and incredible accounts of the town's past
• Drive the Versveld Pass for the amazing views
• Taste local buchu brandy

For accommodation near Piketberg see: Swartland Accommodation

Velddrif

Gorgeous Velddrif Sunset

Velddrif is a rather large, vibey fishing town that virtually merges with the village of Laaiplek that nabs access to the Atlantic and literally functions as somewhere for fishing vessels to offload their merchandise. Velddrif is famous not only for its mounds of salt in the salt pans that line the R27 as it crosses the Berg River into town, but also for its bokkoms (dried fish).

• Drive down Bokkom Avenue alongside the Berg River and you're in for a treat (take your camera along as it is rather picturesque)
• Look out for flamingos and other birds – Velddrif is part of the Flamingo Bird Route and the Berg River estuary is home to some 30 000 birds
• Head off to the Rocherpan Nature Reserve, 25 km from Velddrif, where there is silence and bird hides
• Use the Berg River to sail, kayak or kitesurf
• Take a boat trip up or down the river
• Visit Pelican Harbour, a renovated fishing factory
• Take a tour of the salt factory
• Take a hike from Kliphout Krans
• See the whales from the beaches just north of here
• Browse a series of shops, art galleries, antique shops and restaurants

For accommodation in Velddrif see: Velddrif Accommodation

Useful Links

Aurora Attractions
Velddrif Accommodation
West Coast Accommodation
Swartland Accommodation
Swartland Hotels
Western Cape Accommodation

I ♥ Tzaneen

Hi, I’m Natalie from Tzaneen Country Lodge in Tzaneen.

Tzaneen IS BEST KNOWN as the fruit basket of South Africa and famous for its tropical fruits and extraordinary scenic beauty.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT Debegeni Waterfall – meaning the place of the Big Pot. (It’s a stunning waterfall with lush bush and vegetation).

THE BEST adventure PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN AT Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours while sliding through the indigenous forest on a 2½-hour Tarzan and Jane style adventure.
OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT the dam wall of the Tzaneen Dam — the popular after-dinner walking spot of locals.

I ♥ Tzaneen

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO go Tubing down the river with Magoebaskloof Adventure Centre.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO take a Hot Stone Massage at the Earth Spa at Tzaneen Country Lodge.

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS all the time…
Spring, BECAUSE of the amazing display of our indigenous Wild Pear trees with thousands of angel-like white blossoms that dots all the roads around Tzaneen.

Summer, BECAUSE it is Firefly season and we see thousands of them at our dams at the Tzaneen Country Lodge and in the area.
Autumn, BECAUSE of the irresistible display of dark red and yellow autumn colours of the Kudu Berry trees in the area.
Winter, BECAUSE of the fantastic weather — not too cold and not too warm…

I ♥ Tzaneen

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS Tzaneen Country Lodge with their unbelievable value for money breakfast buffets.
FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST a toasted cheese and biltong sandwich or a sexy salad at Mangela Tea Garden.

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS Tzaneen Country Lodge, TRY THE Chicken Breast Supreme with it’s delicious filling of local fare of Peppadew’s,and melted cheese.

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM Rosa La Rouge Cocktail Bar at Tzaneen Country Lodge.

MY FAVOURITE chocolate cake SPOT IS Pekoe View.
FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY DownTown Restaurant.
IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO Tzaneen Country Lodge on a Sunday.

I ♥ Tzaneen

Tzaneen’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS the natural beauty and the super-friendly locals – unbeatable!

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS go on a picnic at the Debegeni waterfall.
FOR SOME CULTURE, I LIKE TO GO TO visit the Kaross workers with their amazing embroidery paintings.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO enjoy treatments at the Earth Spa.
IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY Canopy Tour with Magoebaskloof Adventures.
MY FAVOURITE WALK / HIKE IS Rooikat Hiking Trail in Agatha.
MY FAVOURITE preserves and curio SHOP IS Mangela Tea Garden & Curio Shop at Tarentaalrand outside Tzaneen.

I ♥ Tzaneen

MY FAVOURITE bird WATCHING SPOT IS at the Bird Hide at the Hadeda Dam on the Tarentaalrand Farm.
IF YOU'RE HERE IN June, JOIN IN THE FUN AT the Tarentaal Music Festival or IF YOU'RE HERE IN September, JOIN IN THE FUN AT the Cherry Blossom Festival.

MY FAVOURITE MUSEUM IS the Tsonga Kraal Museum. CHECK OUT THE history of the Tsonga People in their natural surroundings.
MY FAVOURITE BUILDING IS Lifestyle Centre, FOR ITS variety of products.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS a visit to Mangela Animal Farm.

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS a picnic at the Debegeni Waterfall or at the Modjadji Cycad Forest with unbeatable views of the North Eastern Lowveld.

I ♥ Tzaneen

WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO do a Balloon Safari in Hoedspruit or do Elephant interaction in Hoedspruit or check in for a De-Stress Week-end at the Earth Spa.

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING I SEE HERE IS the biggest concentration of a single cycad species in the world at the Modjadji Cydad Forest.
MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS in the mountains at Heanertsburg.

WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I donate food and clothes to local communities and schools.

The friendly smiles… The small town feel… Romantic nights… The happy place (another meaning of the name Tzaneen) or the place where people get together. A Place where you can arrive as a stranger, but will always leave as a friend…

I ♥ Tzaneen BECAUSE it has an amazing sense of peace surrounding it.

Tzaneen Country Lodge

Tzaneen Country Lodge

In the heart of the north eastern lowveld you will find the Tzaneen Country Lodge with its new Earth Spa.  The tastefully decorated Tzaneen Country Lodge offers world-class hospitality, discreet security and outstanding service. Exclusive and private, the lodge is nestled on 150 hectares of farmland and indigenous forest. Except for the being in one of the most beautiful regions in South Africa, the Tzaneen Country Lodge is also only 84 km from the Phalaborwa Gate of the Kruger National Park and centrally located to explore the beauty and magic of Limpopo in Africa.

Visit Tzaneen Country Lodge
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Magoebaskloof Canopy Tours: +27 (0)83 866‑1546
Mogoebaskloof Adventure Centre: +27 (0)15 276‑5096
Earth Spa: +27 (0)15 304‑3079
Mangela Tea Garden and Animal Farm: +27 (0)15 304‑3290
Pekoe View: +27 (0)15 305‑3241
DownTown Restaurant:  +27 (0)83 453‑3751
Tsonga Kraal Museum: +27 (0)15 386‑8727

Useful Links:
Tzaneen Guest Houses
Tzaneen Self Catering
Tzaneen Accommodation
Limpopo Accommodation
Limpopo Hotels

Harvest Festival

If you are looking for a fantastic experience on the weekend of 17 and 18 March 2012 why not take a drive to Wellington for their annual Wellington Harvest Festival. Purchase your access pass at your first port of call or at the Wellington Tourism Office. Your pass allows you free wine tasting at participating cellars otherwise it is a pay-as-you-go system.

Wondering where your first stop should be, why not stop at the Bosman Family Vinerard as they have joined together with Fairtrade Label South Africa and hope to show visitors to the festival the true meaning of Fairtrade. Lunch will be a deliciously long affair and you will find out all of the details below ...

Bosman Family Vineyards promises a Celebration in Fairtrade at their Long Lunch during the annual Wellington Harvest Festival on 17 & 18 March 2012.  Kick off your working shoes and enjoy a leisurely, festive summer lunch set against the backdrop of elegant Cape Dutch buildings, spreading oaks and soaring mountains.

This 8th  generation family winery is partnering with Fairtrade Label South Africa and significant South African Fairtrade producers during this year's Wellington Harvest Festival in order to give South Africans a glimpse into the world of Fairtrade.

Fairtrade is a trading partnership, based on a progressive set of social and environmental criteria and seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by allocating part of the price for this cause.

The Bosman family invites you to a feast of country food paired with their boutique-style wines in the captivating Bovlei Valley of Wellington. Savour the slow beat of ambient live music from various local entertainers including the Bosman Farming Choir, play the ancient game of boules, take a guided cellar tour, look at an antique tractor display, or watch the kids playing in the supervised kiddies area.

Sip away on ice cold rosé made from 33 grape varieties, the Mont Bay Sauvignon Blanc from our De Bos vineyards near Hermanus, the Sur Lie Chenin Blanc ‒ a gem made from our Lelienfontein Chenin Blanc grapes ‒ and enjoy delicious food prepared by Marc’s Restaurant and other local delicatessens.

Bosman Family Vineyards will be joining hands with Pebbles, an NGO actively involved in the communities of the wine growing regions within the South African Wine industry. A percentage of the Long Lunch proceeds will go towards supporting this Cape winelands charity.

LONG LUNCH DETAILS:

Starts: 17 March 2012 from 10h00 — 17h00
Ends: 18 March 2012 from 10h00 — 17h00
Cost: R80 per person
Space:  400 people per day
Location: Lelienfontein, Wellington
Reservations: Not necessary.

Buy your ticket at the gate or any Computicket outlet.  Tickets include a Wellington Harvest Festival pass and a tasting glass.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Contact: Antonia Bosman
Phone: +27 (0)21 873‑3170

Useful Wellington Links:

Things to Do in Wellington
Wellington Attractions
Wellington Hotels
Wellington Accommodation
Cape Winelands Accommodation
Western Cape Accommodation
Western Cape Hotels

Cape leopards are special – for one, they're incredibly beautiful, but they're also much smaller than those found in other parts of Africa, and they are the top predator in the mountains of the Cape. Their extinction can have an impact on the entire ecosystem. What this means is that the leopard is the apex predator in the Western Cape ecosystem. It thus acts as an 'umbrella species'. By protecting the leopard, one is also helping conserve smaller predators, as well as other animals occurring in the system.

The range of area each leopard needs in order to hunt and live is understandably threatened by development, but also by people who kill them to protect their farm animals. Today there are the Trust focuses on using information on the ecology of these predators to show that killing or relocation of them is not a solution to conflict situation. Some mitigating measure can be used such as livestock guardian dogs (like Anatolian shepherd dogs) and especially herders. The Trust currently has an experimental farm where they themselves are testing farming with herders and dogs while monitoring the behaviour of the predators (leopards, caracals and jackals) in the same area.

There are the added natural threats to the leopard especially when they are young, like snakes, disease, black eagles, malnutrition and, as their territories shrink, vying for territory with one another — sometimes to the death.

Leopards are very different from cheetahs, with whom they are often confused. Spots aside (cheetahs have individual spots whilst leopards have rings of spots called rosettes) leopards stalk their prey and need to get really close to them, when they pounce. In bushveld savanna, leopards then drag their prey up trees, however, in the mountains they have no suitable trees to hoist their prey into – so the generally find a comfy place with a good view to take their time and eat their meal. They are stockier and stronger as a result, whilst cheetahs are leaner and built for speed, chasing their prey over huge distances.

Quinton has shown that male leopards in the Cederberg have home ranges of between 200km² in the Fynbos and 1000km² in the Karoo. The Trust's website suggests that in comparison Kruger National Park male leopards have ranges of between 25 and 50km². This equates to densities being much lower in the Cederberg, as leopards are solitary cats with exclusive home ranges. Males have exclusive ranges, each with 2 – 3 females having their own exclusive ranges within these.

Since 2004, Quinton studied the leopard in the Cederberg to ascertain their population status and vulnerability. He started the Trust and serves as its project manager and major researcher, completing his PhD in 2010 through the University of Bristol. Elizabeth Martins runs the Education and Outreach Programme that the team feels is essential for the future of the cat and nature conservation in general.

The Trust runs children's camps that teach them about the wilderness and themselves. Via a National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF) grant the Trust provides sponsored camps and day trips to connect children to the wilderness. It also runs local environmental clubs such as the one at Eselbank, a local Cederberg school with whom the Trust actively works, and school presentations during which the Trust inspires children through a 45 minute presentation.

Ongoing leopard research in the Cederberg is, in the meantime, helping in a big way in managing and conserving the leopard population. Quinton has written his PhD on the ecology of leopards in the Cederberg, which gives researchers a reference to use in monitoring the movements of other leopard populations in similar mountainous terrain.

Quinton's approach has involved modern technology in the form of GPS satellite tracking devices and remote camera traps, which has brought him a little closer to establishing the needs of this unique cat population.

Part of the process has been to capture and collar adult leopards with GPS collars, allowing the Trust to collect data on their movements. This they've used to influence how best to manage predator/land owner relationships.

When the project began an average of seven leopards a year died in farmer-predator conflict. In the last seven years, only two have died in this way. Through the work of the Trust, the Cederberg Conservancy has supported leopard conservation and as a result, the Cederberg now has a stable leopard population the Trust can monitor over the long term.

The Trust keeps individual records of the leopards they tag. Most of them now have names. They have become individual cats to the team, not just numbers that form a statistic for science. They've identified 27 leopards in the Cederberg study over a six-year period – visit this page and then hover your mouse over Cederberg leopards.

Trapping any individual leopard to collar it is not a walk in the park. Traps have to be regularly checked — at least every two – three hours — so placing them way out of the way is counterproductive. At the same time, putting traps close to foot paths used regularly by hikers is also out of the question unless the trails are closed to the public.

The trapping process has been approved by the statutory conservation body and an ethics committee and a capture is always supervised by a vet. And the team test internationally acclaimed trapping techniques, such as the foot-loop traps revamped by American Dairen Simpson. Science has shown that these are the safest traps for large carnivores. The Trust is keen to use where possible, and are keeping records of their safety and efficacy.

If you do walk in the Cederberg and come upon a sign warning you of a leopard trapping in progress, you will be urged not to approach more – please take note and do not go near the traps as this could interfere with their hard work trying to capture these cats for conservation. Sometimes iti takes months to catch a targeted individual.

Of course finding a leopard in a vast and untamed area is anything but a walk in the park. Leopards are shy by nature and will go out of their way to avoid being seen. Very few people sight these wonderful cats at all. Which is why the Trust uses digital cameras with an infra-red sensors triggered by motion and heat.

This they call 'camera-trapping' – one can equate them to permanent fieldworkers — and it gives the team a good indication of the numbers of nocturnal leopards – a non-invasive and affordable option to capture. If two cameras are arranged at what's called a 'double station' – two cameras opposite one another – one is able to put together individual leopard identikits with photos of both the left and right flank of any individual cat.

The Trust is also involved in projects in Gouritz, the Boland mountains and Namaqualand.

Get Involved

If you want to get involved in the project there are a number of ways: you can raise awareness by buying (and wearing) a rather cool, hemp Cape Leopard Trust T-shirt, you can sponsor a camera trap, you can Adopt a Spot or if you are an organisation you can sponsor a school camp for disadvantaged children. Soon, leopard tracking trips in the Cederberg will become available to the hiking fit public. Register for updates on their website to be informed as soon as this happens – www.capeleopard.org.za

The team is happy to do presentations for any group, and they do school presentations at no charge.

Get in Touch

Email Elizabeth Martins on elizabeth@capeleopard.org.za

Useful Links

• Cederberg Attractions
• Things to Do in Cederberg
• Cederberg Accommodation
• Western Cape Accommodation

Five Bay Trail

It is just as well that when first reading the email inviting us to join one of the Cape West Coast Biosphere Trails that the rather obvious fact that I was going to have to actually walk the 28 km didn't register. Or I probably would have chickened out and sent my other half without me.

My eye, instead, homes into the word 'gentle' (used to describe the hiking trail) and the fact that we will not have to carry heavy packs, will have our food laid on for us, and be put up in a B&B in Paternoster. I need no further persuasion.

The Five Bay Trail is described as a walking trail. And for those who are seasoned hikers, it is possibly a walk in the park, although you'll more than get your exercise in. For those of you, like me, who walk occasionally and do not count yourselves as fit, you will manage, only just...

The trail, which starts and overnights on both evenings in Paternoster, and ends in Jacobsbaai, hugs the coast taking place mainly along the beaches of a myriad bays between the two villages. The weekend was to have many highlights, including delicious food, incredible views, and good conversation.

Arriving late afternoon on the Friday at Klein Paternoster self-catering lodges, Tracey welcomes us with an ice-cold beer and the chance to meet the rest of the group — a diverse and interesting bunch that because the hike is the last of the official launch of this particular trail, and geared towards the few journalists invited, means that we have a fauna and flora expert from the biosphere, and one of the original team involved in designing the trails along.

The Five Bay Trail is one of five trails designed within the Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve. The others are the Darling Stagger, Eve's Trail, Wheels of Time, and the Berg River Canooze. Each of these aims to create awareness about the biosphere whilst at the same time contributing towards the socio-economic well-being of the communities through which it passes.

It's a feel-good hike, in other words, where proceeds of the cost of the hike go towards local guides, caterers, drivers and boosting the local economy. Responsible Tourism at its best.

I have to bring only a willingness to walk, a pair of hardy walking shoes (and even that wasn't necessary as Sven, the journalist from Go mag proves after doing almost the entire trail barefoot) sunscreen, a hat and a swimming costume.

The trail begins with a preliminary stroll along the beach of Paternoster to our dinner across on the other side of town, where Oep Ve Koep chef, Kobus van der Merwe, hosts us for a meal in his B&B.

Part-way through supper we learn that one has to book even for breakfast at Oep Ve Koep (it might look like a general-dealer store, but it's obviously rather a lot more). No surprises there, as the meal is incredible.

Kobus is renowned as a local forager and our veges include interesting edible fynbos. The presentation is beautiful and the service, at our table d'ote in the heart of the home, professional. Home-made bread, springbok steak and dessert are highlights.

Up bright and early the next morning, a wonderful breakfast spread (but didn't we just eat?) of fruit salad, granola, yoghurt and what can only be described as Pikkie's aplomb — an egg, mushroom, cheese and bacon dish that puts shame to the average eggs sunny-side-up. Pikkie manages somehow never to run out of just-made plungers of coffee, a smile and the grace of a good hostess.

We pass through the town of Paternoster. It's the first weekend of crayfish season. Town is abustle with or without crayfish season, but the beaches alongside and all the way to Titiesbaai (in Cape Columbine Nature Reserve) are so full of campers all intent on hauling in their four crayfish a day to enjoy on an evening or morning braai, that we virtually trip over them. It's an interesting perspective – that of a hiker passing through...

In our backpacks are self-made sandwiches from food laid on for us that we enjoy on the rocks just beyond Titiesbaai. A passing whale and her baby appear as if to order and our feet enjoy a welcome respite from all the sand walking. The day is hot. I am glad of my long-sleeved linen shirt and wide-brimmed hat. Particularly when I see how burnt Rhett, who manages the biosphere's stewardship programme, has got.

But we've already lost enough time (I admit to taking too many pictures and asking a myriad questions about the various fynbos flowers we pass), and lunch is over. We press on.

The second half of the first day is difficult for me. The heat of the day and sore feet are nothing though compared with the views and the blue of the sea, the endless sandy curves of bays, shell middens, incredible fynbos and different colours of lichen that hug the hulking boulders of some of the bays.

Just as the heat gets to me, whilst walking against a cliff with little respite from the sun, we stumble across a perfect inlet that functions as a swimming hole. Decorum is flung to the winds as each of us strips down to the bare minimum before jumping into the icy water. For those who can stay in beyond a minute, the tide pulls hither and thither treating us in similar fashion to the large fingers of seaweed that line the rocks.

We trudge across Noordwesbaai to the Trekoskraal headland and the end of day one.  Despite the gorgeous food that evening at Skipskebys, we're all in bed by 9.30pm.

Day three dawns. The green bus (no more guilt trips), which has already met us partway with water, and at the end of yesterday, takes us back to Trekoskraal after another incredible Pikkie breakfast. This morning is foggy. It's just rained and is cooler than the day before.

It's slightly easier going. Despite this part of the coast not being part of a reserve, people are still camped along various parts, without facilities. Someone has placed a toilet (a chair with a toilet seat in it) in the middle of the fynbos with a view of the sea – just hope they've dug a hole beneath it, are my thoughts, even as I muse about the view from the loo.

The bays across which we traipse include the incredible dunes of Wesbaai where swales have hollowed out nests in the sandy cliffs overhead. As the wind has got hold of them so each has become deeper and more like the window of a human abode. It's a bird-version of Cappadocia, the cave dwellings in Turkey.

Morgan, one of our guides, shows me how to walk in the footsteps of others of the group ahead of me on the trail. It is both a practical lesson (it's a lot easier when walking in sand to walk in the footsteps of your fellow hikers) and a metaphysical one. Now tired, I find that I am the third person to have stepped in these particular sandy indentations, occasionally erased by an errant wave as the tide recedes.

It's our last bay before Jacobsbaai and the trail's end. Hospitaalbaai is named such not because, as I think, it is the nursing bay of whales and their calves, but because in the old days ships used to offload their sick in the bay en route to Table Bay where there were strict quarantines. If recovered, sailors could hope to reconnect with their ship on the way back.

We lunch at Weskusplek, renowned because Steve Hofmeyr is part-owner, his photograph none too subtly displayed. The food isn't great, but it's a wonderful setting.

The hike's members are sad to take their leave. Camaraderie when on a hike easily builds. Stories have been told, details disclosed, lives explored. The trail has been an incredible experience. On the journey back to Paternoster, Morgan, who can't resist a moment to play, begins singing 'I did it my way” in true Sinatra style, until he reaches the end and gleefully inserts “I did it five bays”.

Ja, nee...

Get in Touch
For further details please contact:
086 187 2456 (Trails)
022 492 2750 (Cape West Coast biosphere Central Office)
022 451 2648 (Cape West Coast biosphere Hub R27)

Useful Links

• Paternoster Accommodation
• Jacobsbaai Accommodation
• Cape West Coast Accommodation
• Western Cape Accommodation

Karkloof Canopy Tour

The Karkloof Canopy Tour is probably the most well-known outdoor activity in the Natal Midlands, attracting people from all walks of life in search of the adventure of a lifetime. Situated amidst the beauty and greenery of the majestic Karkloof Valley, the tour involves traversing from one wooden platform to another along a pair of steel cables (with a two ton breaking strain) suspended high above the forest floor.

Those in the industry refer to this traversing as ‘zip lining’ because this is exactly what takes place as participants ‘zip’ along the cables at speeds of up to 80km/h. The Karkloof Canopy Tour has its roots in the balmy rainforests of Costa Rica where adventurous biologists, eager to record the diversity of animal life found at the canopy level of the forests, devised a system of cables and platforms that enabled them to explore this previously inaccessible ecosystem.

This new development soon heralded the onset of a breathtaking eco-tourism activity that not only allowed people access to the upper realm of a rainforest, but raised awareness of the many challenges that these endangered ecosystems face. Certainly there couldn’t be a more appropriate venue for the tour than the picturesque Karkloof Valley –home to some of the most spectacular scenery KwaZulu-Natal has to offer.

After arriving at The Karkloof Canopy Tour office I made my way to the assembly area where I, along with the rest of my tour party, received a customary safety briefing followed by the compulsory signing of an indemnity form. After being kitted out with a variety of equipment, which included harnesses, helmets and a pair of thick safety gloves, we boarded a Landcruiser and were driven to the starting point of our adventure.

Having a natural, almost primal fear of heights, I knew that traversing between the various platforms was going to present a tough challenge. In fact, I already knew that going ‘solo’ was likely to be impossible and it was for that reason that I requested a ‘tandem’ adventure where I would be accompanied by a trained guide at all times.

There are seven platforms and eight ‘foefi’ slides in all and after arriving at the first platform, our guides explained some basic techniques of the trade. In a nutshell these techniques involve pulling down gently on the cable to slow down and lifting your legs as you approach a platform so as to ensure a safe landing.

The first cable was quite short (about 30m) and basically constituted a practice run. Entrusting all braking manoeuvres to my guide (a standard procedure for the tandem adventure) I took the plunge and was soon whizzing along the cable. After reaching the second platform without a hitch I began to relax a little although I was still quite nervous considering the challenges that lay ahead.

But this merely proved to be the calm before the storm when I realised the second slide was a 170m monster with the valley floor seemingly thousands of feet below. If I had been a little scared before embarking on this adventure I was now absolutely terrified. With or without a guide it was now clear that just completing the tour was going to be a monumental challenge.

Somehow I summoned the courage to proceed and soon both my guide and I were traversing what seemed to be the entire expanse of the valley. Within seconds we were approaching the third platform but then what I had been dreading the most happened, my guide braked too early leaving both of us suspended in mid air still metres short of the third platform.

Too shocked to do anything I remained as calm as possible while my guide wriggled past me and skilfully hoisted me (along with the help of a colleague) onto the platform. While I was assured that this manoeuvre was all in a day’s work for the guides, I was still gripped by fear as my trembling legs could attest to.

After a couple of deep breathes and a silent prayer I was ready to proceed with my ‘Tarzan and Jane’ adventure although by now I was seriously beginning to wonder if I had bitten off more than I could chew. My fears proved to be unfounded though as I quickly grew accustomed to zipping along the cables, which is a tremendously exhilarating experience.

Soon we had come to the end of our adventure and while making the short walk back to the office I began to reflect on my experience. Billed as a ‘unique eco experience’ given the fact that guides are instructed to provide interesting facts about the forest ecology during the adventure, the Karkloof Canopy Tour is actually tailored more for out and out thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies than nature lovers.

My reasoning for this is that there is hardly any time to appreciate the beauty of nature while tearing along a steel cable at 80km/h. Your adrenaline is pumping so much that all your senses are heightened to such an extent that it becomes impossible to concentrate on individual aspects of your surroundings.

Only once you have reached a platform and have had time to gather your breath is it possible to take in the beauty that surrounds you. However, there’s a constant feeling of being rushed as you mentally prepare yourself for the next ‘dash between the tree tops’ and our guides, as friendly as they were, did not really mention much about the area’s flora and fauna.

Back at the office we were treated to a light lunch of juice, sandwiches and salad which was included in the tour price of R450 per person. For R150 extra you can request a CD containing photos (taken by the guides) of the outing.

If it’s purely thrills that you’re after then The Karkloof Canopy Tour is most certainly worth the money given the guaranteed adrenaline rush, but if you are a quite and cautious sort or if you have a genuine fear of heights, then this adventure could prove to be rather daunting. It’s also quite taxing on the body (whether you choose the ‘tandem’ option or not) requiring a fairly strong core to lift heavy legs as you shoot between the tree tops.

While I certainly don’t regret embarking on this activity given the thrills I experienced, I’m not sure if I’d do it again. It’s an adventure that’s not for the faint hearted and although all precautions are taken to ensure the safety of participants, the signing of an indemnity form means that there must be an element of risk involved, however small.

Contact details:
Tel: +27 (0)33 330 3415
Address: Karkloof Valley, Kwazulu-Natal Midlands

Useful Links:
Karkloof Accommodation
Karkloof Attractions
Natal Midlands Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Accommodation

The Cape in a side car

There are a lot of things I've not done in Cape Town that the average tourist has. Exploring Cape Town through the eyes of a tourist can be as good as going on holiday elsewhere, a lot cheaper, and will earn you greenie points for saving on carbon emissions and for contributing to the local economy.

So this year over the Festive Season, why not try to explore the city as a tourist. Here is my choice list of things we'd like to do – not all of them fall in the Top 10 Things to do in Cape Town, but then they've also got to appeal to those who have lived here a while ...

Explore your own city:

Drive the Cape in a sidecar
Seriously, tell me you've not yearned to have a whirl in one of these before your more sensible side kicks in, and warns of the rather obvious perils involved. Bet you didn't know that you can organise a chauffeured tour in a vintage World War II sidecar through the Cape wine routes, along the peninsular or you can create your own itinerary – the choice is yours. A two-hour drive is probably going to set you back about a grand (they don't appear to offer cheaper, shorter rides), but wow, I think it's worth it – a marvellous birthday or Christmas gift idea for a special someone in your life. Or a self-treat, for a year well done.

Things to Do in Cape Town

Cape Malay Cooking Safari, Bo-Kaap
Andulela offers a series of cultural and culinary tours, one of which is a Cape Malay cooking safari priced at about R500 per person. Starting at the Bo-Kaap Museum you get to know the history of the area, take a stroll through the more historic streets, followed by a 'hands-on' informal cooking workshop in a local Bo-Kaap family home. You'll learn how to mix masala, fold samoosas and how best to produce a Cape Malay curry, after which you dig in and experience the meal for yourself. Fun? I think so. (Contact: +27(0)21 790‑2592)

Climbing Lion's Head at Full Moon
My all-time favourite activity despite having still to do it (which is probably why it's still a favourite; once I've seen the heights I am to scale, I may change my mind). Lion's Head is renowned for the incredible views out over Robben Island, the Atlantic Seaboard and the Blouberg beaches. The hour-long walk is extremely popular during the full moon. The climb though is pretty strenuous, and there are sections where your fear of heights and your rather tenuous grip on the mountain may result in early termination of said climb. But by all accounts it is worth it.

Sandboarding on the dunes of Atlantis or Silversands in Betty's Bay
This one is a rather active activity and one which, given that I've waited this long to give it a whirl, I reserve the right to back out of given my level of fitness. But I have to say that the idea appeals. I've not snowboarded, but they say that you require roughly the same skills to achieve sandboarding (how much can there be to it?) and both dunes are well worth travelling for. For the young-at-heart and the super fit, this is a tremendously fun outing.

Things to Do in Cape Town

Cape Town by foot
You can do this in a couple of ways, either by booking a tour guide through Cape Town Tourism, or you can pick up a couple of free self-guided walks that take one through the CBD, Sea Point and Vredehoek and do it yourself. Either way, you will get to experience a side of Cape Town that even the average local knows little about.  You can pick up the maps at Cape Town Tourism on Hout Street.

Visit the Berlin Wall
I did not even know that Cape Town had a bit of the Berlin Wall (segments of the Berlin Wall have been given to various institutions and countries since 1989). Our bit was at St George's Mall given to Nelson Mandela during the 1990s and placed outside the Mandela Rhodes Foundation at 150 St George's Mall. Judging by the online pictures and descriptions of the bit of wall, it has now moved to the Waterfront. It now lies beyond the Aquarium and V&A Hotel, past Mitchell's Brewery and then down a side street... worth going to find?

Taking the Topless Bus
My six-year old is constantly asking me to take him on the double-decker red bus he sees around town, and the hop-on-hop-off bus is a wonderful way in which to see the city, visitor or local. A one-day ticket costs between R110 and R150 (depending on whether or not there is a special on) and includes 17 great stops around the city. Considering the traffic in town, a seat at the top of one of these is worth every cent.

Things to Do in Cape Town

Tea at Mount Nelson
If you haven't done this, you have not yet lived. Tea at the Mount Nelson is an institution, and one that every visitor and local alike should experience. Served daily between 2.30pm and 5pm the array of cucumber sandwiches, cakes and pastries accompanied by loose leaf teas, will keep you happily ensconced on the veranda for hours. I've already been, but try and keep me away...

Horse riding on Noordhoek beach
There are a couple of horse-riding companies who make ponies available for riding on Noordhoek beach, one from Imhoff Farm close to the little village of Kommetjie that offer three rides daily from the Kommetjie side of Long Beach, and the other from the foot of Chapman's Peak that take rides onto the beach at Noordhoek via a series of wetlands. The ride will set you back roughly R400. (See Things to Do in Noordhoek)

Picnic at Vergelegen
Vergelegen wine estate is one of the oldest in Somerset West and provides a gorgeous setting under a forest of camphor trees in summer. Booking your pre-prepared picnic is essential, but the romance of the flowing white table cloths, the sound of water, the incredible ponds and streams and faerie world atmosphere is worth every cent. A wonderful outing for a special occasion or just to meet up with friends.

Things to Do in Cape Town

Sunset at Camps Bay
You cannot live in Cape Town and not experience at least an annual sunset on the Atlantic Ocean, preferably on one of the more beautiful beaches like Camps Bay and Llundudno. The Cape Doctor aside, head out on a good evening with sundowners and snacks and you will not be disappointed at Camps Bay Beach.

Learn to surf at Big Bay
This bay, near Table View, is said to be one of the best bays in which to learn to surf, and at least one of the surfing schools in the vicinity claims to get you standing and surfing within a day. A full-day programme will set you back between R500-R700.

Useful Links:
Things to Do in Cape Town
Cape Town Attractions
Cape Town Hotels
Cape Town Accommodation
Western Cape Accommodation

Rawdons Estate

Situated in the heart of the Midlands Meander and only a five minute drive from the N3 highway is Rawdon’s Estate, probably one of the oldest hospitality establishments on the Midlands. The first thing that struck me about Rawdon’s was its unique, old world charm.

Closely resembling an English country estate of a bygone era the establishment is furnished with a variety of prize antiques that create an atmosphere of class and sophistication. Walking through its numerous hallways and investigating its many nooks and crannies was an absolute delight and I especially enjoyed the countless, animated framed sketches that adorned the walls.

Although Rawdon’s is most famous for its pub, The Boars Head, where visitors from far and wide come to enjoy a pint (or two) of their favourite brew, it’s also home to a first class restaurant as I discovered when I dropped in for lunch recently.

After perusing through the menu I was tempted to request an offering of roast beef, roast potatoes and Yorkshire pudding (R65) but I decided to select the de-boned Berg trout, known to be a speciality and a signature dish of the Midlands, instead. Although I found the taste a little unusual I rather liked the trout (R68) which also came with a hearty helping of vegetables and a garnish of your choice. My friend Mary-Anne, who had accompanied me for the afternoon along with my mom, also had the trout. She, too, enjoyed the dish although she did feel that had she applied less of her lemon and herb butter garnish (I opted for the garlic butter), she would have enjoyed it even more.

Considering this fish already has a rather unique flavour of its own, the key to a superb tasting trout seems to be the application of as little garnish as possible. However, since this was the first time either of us had eaten trout, we weren’t aware of quite how to proceed resulting in the rather over zealous application of our respective garnishes. Oh well, as they say you live and learn in this life and I’m pretty sure that both of us will keep this in mind next time we order trout.

My mom, who had a Greek salad (R32) as a starter, opted for the roast beef, roast potatoes and Yorkshire pudding (which also came with a helping of vegetables) for her main course. She had nothing but good things to say about the meal, remarking that the beef was “exceptionally tender”, the potatoes “crispy and very tasty”, the Yorkshire pudding “light and fluffy”, and the veggies “nice and crunchy”.

After lunch Mary-Anne and I decided to take a leisurely stroll along Rawdons’ neatly manicured lawns. We soon ended up exploring further and were most impressed by the beautiful lake that teemed with various types of birdlife. It was certainly one of the most tranquil settings I had encountered during my travels around the Midlands and the perfect remedy to calm jangled nerves.

I really enjoyed my visit to Rawdon’s. The food was tasty and affordable, the service top notch, the atmosphere very relaxed and the hospitality first class thanks largely to the personal touch applied by senior manager George who has worked at the establishment for 52 years.

George is probably one of the friendliest souls a person is ever likely to meet and his welcoming attitude and hospitable nature made us all feel right at home. He is a credit both to Rawdon’s and the hospitality industry in general and I’m sure it won’t be long before I return to experience the good old fashioned service this popular Midlands venue has became famous for.

Contact details:
Telephone: +27 (0)33 266 6044
Physical address: Nottingham Road, Natal Midlands (off R103), KwaZulu Natal
Useful Links:

• Nottingham Road Accommodation
• Natal Midlands Attractions
• Natal Midlands Accommodation
• KwaZulu Natal Accommodation
• KwaZulu Natal Hotels

Gunther's

I’ve never been to Switzerland, but I got the chance to experience just a taste of what that might be like when I visited Gunther’s on the Midlands Meander recently. Gunther’s is not really a restaurant in the traditional sense, serving only light meals of German / Swiss sausages washed down with your favourite draft or glass of wine, but even without a formal menu it certainly is a venue that has a lot to offer.

The secret to its success is the hands on approach adopted by owner Gunther Janz, a man who clearly has a passion for the hospitality industry and a love for traditional German / Swiss cuisine. Born in Switzerland, Gunther moved to South Africa at a young age and quickly fell in love with its stunning, natural beauty. He decided to stay and, together with his wife Carmen, established Gunther’s some years ago.

Billed as ‘a little piece of Switzerland in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands’ Gunther could not have picked a more beautiful spot for his beloved creation. Situated high on a hill overlooking the perennially majestic Caversham Valley, Gunther’s resembles a setting straight out of the pages of an international travel catalogue and in the winter months, where snowfall is common in the Midlands, it certainly must be an awesome sight to behold.

Gunther’s even sports a pair of huge St Bernard’s, aptly named Hansel and Gretel, which make their home on the establishment’s lush, green lawns. The huge hounds are obviously very used to people as they hardly made an effort to greet us as we strode towards the ‘restaurants’ entrance, but they still made for quite an attraction and if I had the money and the space I’d probably consider getting myself one of these gentle giants. There is just something so adorable about them.

Upon learning that a menu wasn’t available, I asked Gunther what he had to offer. Ever the gentleman, he encouraged me and the rest of my lunch party to make our way to the serving counter where we sampled some of the fine German / Swiss sausages that were on offer.

After careful consideration I selected the Schueblig sausage (R55), a herb flavoured pork and beef combination that is a firm favourite in the north east of Switzerland. Served with a helping of fried onions and a large, crispy roll it was truly delicious.

Seldom have I enjoyed a better meal for that kind of money and it soon became apparent that when it comes to sausages, Gunther is certainly a man who knows his stuff. My friend Craig, who had accompanied me and my good friend Mary-Anne for the afternoon along with his wife Tandy and their four children, also opted for the Schueblig sausage and was similarly impressed with his findings.

His only quibble was that the meal was a tad pricy (a view with which I most certainly cannot concur given my findings on the Midlands during the course of this past year) and that the venue was ‘not family orientated’ given the lack of a jumping castle or a jungle gym to keep the kids busy.

Mary-Anne decided that a Bratwurst sausage (R55) would be more to her liking and she certainly wasn’t disappointed with her choice, giving it the thumbs up in every department. In addition to enjoying her meal she liked the “relaxed and friendly atmosphere” and stated that a return visit was “an absolute must.”

Tandy also opted for the Bratwurst sausage and expressed similar sentiments regarding both her meal and the venue itself. “The sausage was very tasty and I really liked the potato although I didn’t care much for the Sauerkraut (a R17.50 side order which we shared among the four of us). All in all it was an enjoyable experience and I would definitely come back given the unusual cuisine and friendly atmosphere,” she remarked.

After settling my bill and bidding Gunther farewell, I had plenty of time to reflect on my experiences and can most certainly concur that Gunther’s is indeed a venue well worth a visit. The service was first class, the atmosphere relaxed, the scenery most beautiful, the cuisine tasty (albeit a little unusual) and the hospitality some of the best you’re ever likely to encounter on the Midlands. My only reservation though is that Gunther’s is not a venue for vegetarians given the lack of options available for non meat eaters.

Contact details:

Tel: +27 (0)83 600‑0923
Physical address: Caversham Cottage, Caversham Valley, Kwazulu-Natal Midlands

Useful Links:

Natal Midlands Attractions
Natal Midlands Guest Houses
Natal Midlands Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Hotels

I ♥ Edenvale

Hi, I’m Bianca Hersov from Glendower View Guest House in Edenvale on the East Rand, Gauteng.

Edenvale IS BEST KNOWN FOR being really close to Africa’s largest airport, OR Tambo International Airport.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT Hunyani Reptile Educational and Breeding Centre with one of South Africa’s Deathly Dozen and listen to Clive’s animated and super interesting presentation on the education and conservation of South African reptiles.

THE BEST bird PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN AT the Glendower Golf Course, which was proclaimed a Nature Reserve in 1973 in order to preserve the excellent bird-life that is to be found on the course. Obviously, you could also aim for a different type of “birdie” and go and play a round at golf at Glendower Golf Course or one of the many other golf courses nearby.

I ♥ Edenvale

OTHER HAPPY SNAPS AT any of the many excellent restaurants in the area, such as Fahrenheit Seafood & Grill or OYO’s at Bedford Centre. The most family-friendly restaurant in the area must be Primi Piatti or the Greek deli / cafe / bakery in Senderwood named Meze in the Senderwood Shopping Centre. The best sushi can be found at Just Sushi in the Linksfield Square Shopping Centre or Yamitsuki Sushi and Noodle Bar on 53 van Buuren Road in Bedfordview.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO go for a walk with the kids and feed the ducks at Gillooly’s Farm and have a picnic with stuff bought from Meze – the Greek deli / cafe / bakery in Senderwood.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO indulge in shopping or going to the movies at the superb shopping malls in the area, such as Greenstone, Bedford Centre, Eastgate or go for some bargain hunting at the large Chinese Market or African Craft and Flea Market in Bruma.

I ♥ Edenvale

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS all year round, BECAUSE Edenvale has accommodation options to suit all pockets and you have effortless access to the East Rand, West Rand, Johannesburg, north to Pretoria and south towards Vereeniging. Start your journey in or out of South Africa relaxed and spend a day in one of our excellent B & B’s or Guest Houses in the area.

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS Café di Stefano in Edenvale on 71 Hendrik Potgieter Avenue, the Wiessenhof Coffee Shop at Linksfield Square Shopping Centre or Tashas at the Village View Shopping Centre. Don’t forget to browse at any of the lovely shops in the centre.

FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST Plaka or Primi Piatti at Eastgate’s new outdoor square or Tashas at the Village View Shopping Centre. In Edenvale, try Café Brueghel, cnr: Horwood Street & 8th Avenue, Edenvale for their Belgian waffles and delicacies or the Dutch eatery, De Molen for their Dutch delicacies especially their “poffertjes” (baby-flapjacks).

I ♥ Edenvale

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS most family-friendly restaurant in the area, Primi Piatti, TRY THE Linguini Pancetta or the Chicken Saltimbocca. For breakfast, you can’t beat their Sunrise Pizza. Best late night snack is to be had from the Woolworths at the Engin Garage on Linksfield Road, Edenvale.

MY FAVOURITE night SPOT IS OYO Restaurant & Cocktail Bar or Rich Real Grill Bar at the Bedford Centre Shopping Centre.
FOR A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN TRY Rhapsody's – Bedfordview, Bedford Village Centre, cnr Nicol and Van Buuren, Bedfordview.

IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, GO TO any of the restaurants mentioned above. Johannesburg is all about great food, great friends and great conversation.

I ♥ Edenvale

Edenvale’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS number of excellent hospitality establishments in the area from restaurants, pubs or accommodation providers right on OR Tambo International Airport’s doorstep. Why not spend a night in our centrally located little town before travelling on?

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS having a meal at one of our top restaurants.
FOR SOME LIVE MUSIC, I LIKE TO GO TO Rodizios Brazilian Restaurant in Bedfordview on the weekend.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO go to Nisamon Health Spa on Linksfield Road, Edenvale.

I ♥ Edenvale

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY the walking trail at Gillooly's. Do remember that this is Johannesburg, so don’t go there when it is early in the morning or late in the afternoon!
MY FAVOURITE DRIVE IS Silvia’s Pass and turn into Kallenbach Drive all the way up to the top to Steepways to have a view of Central Johannesburg in the South West Side and of Sandton in the North.

MY FAVOURITE flower SHOP IS Gemma Bloom Fine Flowers at the Village View Shopping Centre for quirky gifts or a beautiful bunch of fresh flowers.

MY FAVOURITE people WATCHING SPOT IS the morning run with the Jeppe Athletics Club from Jeppe Quandrum. Runners from all parts of the world will be welcomed to run with the various running schools. The schools are leaving at 5 am every weekday.

I ♥ Edenvale

IF YOU'RE HERE IN February, JOIN IN THE FUN AT the Pick & Pay Full or Half Marathon organised by the Jeppe Quandum Athletics Club.
MY FAVOURITE BUILDING IS the Murray & Roberts building on Skeen Boulevard, FOR ITS architecture and modern look.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS Adventure Outdoor Golf at the Stoneridge or Parkmeadows Centre.

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS Dries Niemand Picnic Grounds in Kempton Park, just a short drive away from Edenvale. The park has had a recent face-lift, so just bring a picnic and a ball and the kids will have the day of their lives!

WHEN MONEY'S NO OBJECT, I LIKE TO splash out on any of the beautiful designer shops at Bedford Centre.

I ♥ Edenvale

THE MOST UNUSUAL THING I SEE HERE IS the Dutch eatery, De Molen – part of the 40-year old Dutch Bakery or 'De Bakkery' , which main feature, besides the excellent Dutch delicacies, is being a ¾ copy of a real Dutch Windmill, De Zeldenrust Molen in the main street of Edenvale, Van Riebeeck Avenue.

MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS Stonehaven on the Vaal River, just 45 minutes away from Johannesburg. Have lunch and go on one of the river cruises.
WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I support the local businesses.

I ♥ Edenvale BECAUSE there is always something to do, it is close to all major attractions and high-ways and the people are friendly and multi-cultural.

Glendower View

Glendower View Guest House

Glendower View Guest House is a 4-star graded establishment that provides executive accommodation with a personal touch. Glendower View Guest House will appeal to the corporate traveller, overseas guests and visitors to Johannesburg. We cater for long-term stays as well as those just visiting South Africa’s biggest city for a night or two. The guest house is only 10 minutes away from OR Tambo Airport and 15 minutes from the Ellis Park Soccer, Rugby and Athletic Stadium. The Guest House overlooks one of South Africa's most famous golf courses, Glendower Golf Course and located in a quiet residential neighbourhood with 24-hour security.

Visit Glendower View Guest House
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Glendower Golf Course: +27 (0)11 453‑1013
Fahrenheit Seafood & Grill: +27 (0)11 452‑9704 / 6
OYO: +27 (0)11 615‑3600
Primi Piatti: +27 (0)11 455‑0331
Café di Stefano: +27 (0)11 452‑2691
Rhapsody's: +27 (0)11 455‑3625
Rodizios Brazilian Restaurant: +27(0)11 455‑1093
Gemma Bloom Fine Flowers: +27 (0)11 455‑4827
Adventure Outdoor Golf: +27 (0)11 788‑3282

Useful Rivonia Links:
Edenvale Attractions
Edenvale Accommodation
Edenvale Hotels
Things to Do in East Rand
Gauteng Accommodation
Gauteng Hotels

I ♥ Yzerfontein

Hi, I’m Myrna from the White House Beach Villa in Yzerfontein.

Yzerfontein IS BEST KNOWN FOR white sandy beaches, relaxed seaside living, whale spotting, birdlife, the September flower season, unforgettable golden sunsets, surfing and boating.

GET YOUR PICTURE TAKEN AT Pearl Bay, on the beach, a stone’s throw from the White House Beach Villa.

THE BEST midday PICTURES CAN BE TAKEN lying in a field of Spring flowers.

WHEN THE WEATHER'S GOOD, I LIKE TO take a long leisurely walk along the 16 mile beach or simply soak up the sun and enjoy the sound and smell of the ocean.

I ♥ Yzerfontein

WHEN THE WEATHER'S BAD, I LIKE TO curl up at the fireplace with a good book and a glass of red wine.

I THINK THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT IS throughout the year, BECAUSE staying on the beachfront, you will experience temperatures which are cooler in summer and warmer in winter than that of Cape Town.

MY FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IS Geelbek, in the West Coast National Park nearby.
FOR LUNCH, I SUGGEST Cloof wine farm, down a gravel road from Darling Cellars.

MY FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IS !Khwa ttu, situated off the R27 towards Cape Town, TRY THE the Gemsbok pie or buffet lunches on a Sunday.

I ♥ Yzerfontein

BEST LATE NIGHT SNACK FROM cellar in the White House Beach Villa – savour some dark chilli chocolate and a nightcap of Groote Post Noble Late Harvest before retiring to bed.

MY FAVOURITE sundowner SPOT IS sitting on the dune and watching the spectacular sunset.
IF YOU WANT TO MEET LOCALS, take a stroll to the harbour and chat to the fishermen about their days catch.

Yzerfontein’s BEST KEPT SECRET IS the area known as Pearl Bay which is situated on the quieter, windfree side of Yzerfontein.

MY FAVOURITE THING TO DO WITH FRIENDS IS preparing dinner together with freshly caught fish and chilled wine from nearby cellars.

I ♥ Yzerfontein

FOR SOME CULTURE, I LIKE TO GO TO !Kwha ttu and take a cultural tour with the San people and learn about their history.

TO RELAX AND RESTORE MY SOUL, I LIKE TO take long,walks on the soft, sandy beaches and collect shells at my leisure.

IF YOU'RE FEELING ADVENTUROUS, TRY packing your backpack with plenty of water and walk the length of the 16 mile beach.

MY FAVOURITE DRIVE IS visiting Allesverloren Estate, Babylon's Peak Private Cellar, Kloovenburg Vineyards, Riebeek Cellars and Pulpit Rock Winery along the Swartland Wine Route.

MY FAVOURITE gift SHOP IS Lemon Tree, opposite the Spar, near the petrol station.

I ♥ Yzerfontein

MY FAVOURITE whale watching WATCHING SPOT IS from the upstairs bedroom at the White House, overlooking the ocean.

IF YOU'RE HERE IN December, JOIN IN THE FUN AT fun at the Snoek Festival, which includes the Snoek Classic, where boats compete to catch the most or the heaviest snoek for the day.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN? A FUN OUTING IS having a picnic on the beach, playing in the waves and building sandcastles together.

BEST CHEAP AND CHEERFUL OUTING IS a day surfing and bathing at the blue flag beach.

MY FAVOURITE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS right here at the White House Beach Villa where peace and tranquillity awaits you.
WHEN I WANT TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, I support the local people by providing employment.

I ♥ Yzerfontein BECAUSE it brings me closer to nature and keeps me grounded.

White House Beach Villa

White House Beach Villa

Situated on the Cape West Coast and positioned on the pristine Pearl Bay beachfront, the White House is situated less than an hour’s drive from Cape Town and 80 minutes from Cape Town International Airport. Boasting views of Dassen Island and the iconic Table Mountain across the bay, the White House is the perfect beach house getaway. The unspoilt Atlantic coastline is alive with characteristic west coast Fynbos vegetation and wildlife, where it is not uncommon to spot whales and dolphin from the spacious decks. A private boardwalk connects the house to a white sandy beach — a mere stone’s throw away.

Visit White House Beach Villa
View Rates or make a Booking

Desirable Digits

Geelbek: +27 (0)22–772-2134
West Coast National Park: +27 (0)22 772‑2144 / 5
Darling Cellars: +27 (0)22 492‑2276
!Khwa ttu: +27 (0)22 492‑2998

Useful Links:
Yzerfontein Attractions
Things to Do in Cape West Coast
Yzerfontein Guest Houses
Yzerfontein Accommodation
Western Cape Accommodation
Western Cape Hotels

La Popote Restaurant

The quaint little village of Hilton in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands is a pleasure to visit no matter what time of the year. The crisp, clean air is always refreshing and with a number of quality eateries to choose from, you are almost always guaranteed to find the perfect venue to tickle your taste buds.

La Popote Restaurant, situated amidst the beauty and tranquillity of Sue Tarr’s Summerhouse, is without a doubt one of the best eateries in the area as I found out when some friends and I popped in for Sunday lunch recently. Although more of a tea garden than a restaurant, La Popote offers a range of cuisine catering for most palates.

To ensure variety the menu changes regularly and upon learning that all meals, desserts and drinks are prepared on site I promptly ordered a home made ginger ale (R18). It was exceptionally refreshing, not to sweet yet full of flavour and just what I needed to quench my thirst.

I opted for the Bobotie (a local dish consisting of spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping) as a main course which was served in a mug and came with a helping of salad and vegetables. Although the presentation was rather unusual, I really enjoyed the dish. It was rather tasty, not over spicy (although it did have a bit of a zing to it) and hit the spot perfectly. The veggies were delicious too, and the salad tasty and crispy.

My mom also had the Bobotie and was equally impressed with her findings, remarking that the mince was “fine and tender making for a truly fantastic meal.” Not only was the Bobotie top notch in terms of quality and taste, it was also reasonably affordable. Dining out these days is generally quite an expensive undertaking but the good news is that this dish costs just R60 – not too shabby when you consider what that will buy you at a similar establishment.

Peta-Anne selected the savoury cheesecake which consisted of spinach, mushroom, onion and blue cheese accompanied by a helping of avocado salad. Although most definitely a dish I would not have chosen given my dislike for blue cheese, we all have our preferences and Peta-Anne really loved the dish, remarking that it was “delicious, not too salty and tastefully presented.”

While there’s no doubt that she really enjoyed her savoury cheesecake, I noticed that Peta-Anne’s portion was rather small. Had it been more substantial I would have given it a thumbs up in terms of value for money, but at R55 it most certainly wasn’t cheap. For that kind of money I would have expected a bigger portion, after all country cafés are known for offering larger portions than that of their city counterparts.

Mary-Anne opted for the parmesan and lemon chicken, a rather unusual combination to say the least but certainly an interesting one. She was most impressed with her dish, describing the chicken as “succulent” and the vegetables as being “full of flavour and rather tasty.” On this occasion the portion was thankfully more than adequate equating to a value for money meal that would be pretty hard to beat just about anywhere.

For dessert both Mary-Anne and I had the carrot cake (R25), which was outrageously delicious and exceptionally well-presented. I especially enjoyed the way my plate was drizzled with a ‘snow like’ decoration which spoke volumes for the exceptional care La Popote take in presenting their meals.

My mom decided that the chocolate fondant cake with berry coulis (R25) would be more to her liking and judging by her comments it certainly proved to be a good choice. She described it as “delicious and decadently rich” and something she’d “definitely try again.”

A few quibbles aside I was most impressed with my findings at La Popote Restaurant. The food was tasty and well-presented, the service good and the atmosphere very uplifting. But what I liked most about this venue was the beautiful and intimate setting of Sue Tarr’s Summerhouse – a nursery par excellence and a place where you can get just about anything for your home or garden.

So if you are feeling stressed out and need a break or if you just feel like enjoying a leisurely lunch amidst the greenery and tranquillity of nature then La Popote is the perfect place for you. It’s a little oasis of peace and harmony that everyone touring the Midlands should visit at least one. I thoroughly recommend it.

Contact details:

Tel: +27 (0)33 343 2352
Physical address: Folly Hill, Dennis Shepstone Drive, Hilton

Useful Links:

Hilton Attractions
Hilton Accommodation
Hilton Guest Houses
Natal Midlands Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Accommodation
KwaZulu Natal Hotels