Recently I had to meet my Italian Home Exchange partners in Cape Town in order to drive back the car that was part of the exchange, to our home in Jeffreys Bay. Of course, I jumped at the chance to drive the lovely Garden Route back and make a road trip out of it. My dear friend, Adi joined me, and we had an absolutely fantastic time!

We decided not to plan anything in advance, and just go where the roads take us. We had our first night (Monday) arranged in Stellenbosch, and the next plan after that, was reaching George sometime on Thursday. It was like loads of unexpected presents to be opened for a few days!

Of course, when Vaalies go to Cape Town, there had to be some wine tasting as part of the deal. So we kicked off with wine tasting at the oldest and arguably most beautiful wine estate in Cape Town – Groot Constantia, at the foot of Table Mountain.

 

Since our first night’s sleepover was booked with Adi’s family in Stellenbosch, there was no hurry and we enjoyed a terrific lunch at the onsite restaurant, which is absolutely recommended by us both. 

After that. we had some time left to hang out in Stellenbosch and enjoy the interesting shops and museums and just soaking up the atmosphere of a beautiful, wet spring day in the historic old town.

The beautiful restored property of my friend’s family was a cherry on the top, combined with warm welcomes and marvelous food. The view from their patio had me green with envy

Our second day started with breakfast at the Hillcrest berry farm just outside Stellenbosch on the way to Franschhoek.

We had a great breakfast next to a roaring fire and couldn’t stop shopping for all the great stuff we found here for a perfect picnic (delectable Prosciutto, Emmenthal cheese, not to mention the fresh berries and yogurt, etc!) We enjoyed that later in the day with a spectacular view over Theewaterskloof dam.

This is truly beautiful earth and we could hardly contain our oo’s and aa’s at every turn.

Next, of course was Franschhoek, with amazing little craft shops which support the locals. We spent hours just browsing and shopping, visiting the lovely old church and just being amazed by the natural beauty surrounding this little gem of a town.

Another must-do in Franschhoek is the well-kept Huguenot museum. It was really hours later that we left this gorgeous place and headed in the direction of Elgin, stopping frequently to admire the amazing views as we crossed the pass.

That night, we eventually ended up in De Kelders, Gansbaai, looking for accommodation. We were very blessed by finding the cosy Whale Cove.

We had a wonderful evening watching the sun setting over False Bay from our patio. This is a gorgeous self-catering guest house with two studio units, fully equipped. It even had plungers with the filter coffee waiting, now that really impresses me!

A refreshing early morning walk on the beach through interesting vegetation and walkways finished the stay here. We decided to take the back road towards Bredasdorp instead of the N2, and boy, was that a good idea!!

The first lovely stop was at Buffeljagsbaai, a tiny place with a few fisherman’s houses huddled next to the sea, but spectacular in beauty. Here is friend Adi enjoying the wild flowers… and the locals.

 

We did not expect the tar to end, but fortunately we had a capable vehicle and from here on it just got better at every turn. The fields of flowers blew our minds and we stopped frequently for a closer inspection.

And some close-ups …

Spring was happening all around us

And then we unexpectedly came across the Southern-most winery in Africa – Strandveld. Well, the only thing we could do, was have another wine tasting, and it was absolutely worth it. They have an excellent delivery system, and Adi’s wine arrived at her home days before she did!

When we finally reached Bredasorp for a well-deserved lunch, I decided to go show Adi the lovely Bonnievale area. It is one of my all-time favorites and she had never been.

Once again, the greenery of the rolling hills and yellow Canola fields kept us in awe.

Our last night, before ending the tour in George the next day, was certainly one of the highlights. We found this gorgeous little cottage on a farm next to the beautiful Breede River, called ‘die Stal.’

We had a marvelous evening with the lovely sounds of guinea fowl and sheep bleating surrounding us. They provided us with loads of fire wood, which we made full use of.

Don’t miss this if you are ever in the vicinity. Stunning hospitality, comfort and reasonable pricing make this a must-stay.

All the way up to George, where we were blessed with a wonderful stay at my special brother- and sister-in law, was a road worthy of the name “the Garden Route.” Whenever you have a chance at visiting this place, JUMP at it! It refreshes your soul to just breathe in so much fresh beauty and friendliness…