Auglhas Country Lodge

A picturesque escape that will take your breath away. Agulhas Country Lodge is situated at the tip of Southern Africa, two and a half hours outside Cape Town. The owners are dedicated to bringing you historical relics from the past. The unique looking lodge was constructed from old Oregon pine windows and doors that were bought at an auction from an old asbestos mine built in the Kalahari in 1888. An old hotel dating back to 1912 which was situated close to the mine provided timber lintels, doors and windows too. The bar counter was the old town's bank counter and the windows in the passage originated from the Koegas prison.

Beautiful views complete the picture. There are spectacular sea views from almost every vantage point in the lodge making whale spotting  from the months of June to December easy. Flamingos spend time in the shallow waters nesting and with beautiful sunsets across the ocean there is no lack of impressive sites to see. Guests have said that they feel like they are the only ones on the planet when staying at the lodge. Peaceful and quiet, the lodge is a perfect place to escape the city bustle and enjoy the beauty of Southern - most Africa.

The surrounding area has an assortment of fun activities to keep anyone busy. Stunning hiking trails, bird watching, 4x4 Landrover beach safaris through the Auglhas National Park where you can see rare birds, shells and ancient archaeological sites dating back 10 000 years. Swim, canoe, surf and kite surf, boat trips for sundowners or fishing. Visit Auglhas Country Lodge for more information

Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve- The Intelligence of Elephants

Image courtesy of NPR

Elephants are one of the most gentle and intelligent animals in the South African bush. Many people don't realise the intelligence of these animals. They have an incredible memory and their emotional side is something to be wary of. A lot of research over the past few years has found that elephants that have been through a culling season show signs of major distress and even self harm. They have the ability to show empathy towards other elephants suffering. They morn for weeks when another elephant dies and a mother elephant will protect her baby with her own life. There have been recorded burial ceremonies by researches where elephants try for hours to try help a hurt elephant by trying to lift the elephant and feeding it. If the elephant dies they bury the elephant in a shallow grave with branches and leaves. They have been known to do this for family members and with elephants from another herd and even sleeping or dead humans. An elephant herd is almost indestructible and only poaching, culling and death seem to break them up. Humans have become so captivated by these highly intelligent animals that they have discovered that elephants are able to mimic sounds they hear as well as use tools and are able to recognise themselves in mirrors. We do not have elephants at Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve as our land is too small and they would not have sufficient food or roaming space. We do, however have other members of the BIG 5 - Lion, Buffalo & Rhino.

Augusta de Mist- Unique Experience in Swellendam

Augusta de Mist is an incredible hotel that is single - handedly changing the face of Swellendam. Dedicated to  bringing you a unique experience, they have an incredibly divine kitchen with outstanding and different African cuisine.  Their  delectable handmade wines also ensure you have a relaxing and unique getaway.

 A review from guests on the 13 March 2012

"What really is important when you travel is character and originality. Augusta de Mist has that all and more. The owners have made ever detail of this gorgeous cluster of cottages outstanding. From the lush gardens, to the stylish décor, from the knowledge of the area and the many cultures that make up South Africa, to the home baked muffins – everything is done with an eye for detail and attention to your needs as the guest. We honestly felt “at home” and would recommend anyone spending time in the Western Cape to put this on the list."

Visit their webpage for more information and specials.

Eendracht Hotel - Dorp Street, Stellenbosch

The historic Dorp Street in Stellenbosch is home to buildings from the 19th century and older and has become a tourist destination for people all around the world. You will find unique and interesting shops and restaurants that will keep you fascinated for hours as you walk down the streets. You can buy fabulous art from notorious South African artists or dine on spectacular cuisine or just relax and sit back with a cup of perfectly blended and roasted coffee and watch the people shop and rush around you. The historical buildings tower around you almost taking you back making you feel like you could be in another time all together. Students spend their free time off sipping on hot coffee and hanging out, making it a trendy and hip place to be. 

Eendracht Hotel is situated in the corner of Dorp Street giving you total access to the town and the surrounding village. Walking distance to more than 60 restaurants, museums and art galleries, this is the prefect place to spend your Stellenbosch vacation. It is an ancient building where many families have lived before and you can feel a sense of untold stories and reminders from the past. The hotel is fully equipped with high speed wireless internet, surround-sound in the rooms and luxurious spa baths in each bathroom so you need not worry about being stuck in the 19th century living style. Visit their site for more information and specials. 

The Opulence of the Overberg

For city dwellers looking for a weekend getaway, the Overberg provides the perfect escape. With its rocky mountain ranges, fields of fynbos, farmlands covered in wheat and canola as well as its beautiful coastlines, the Overberg provides an opportunity to discover, reflect and have a few adventures.

The Overberg caters for sport enthusiasts, history buffs, foods and eco-adventurers alike. Diverse activities including a 4x4 trail, golfing, horse riding, sunset cruises, fly fishing, whale watching and shark cage diving are on offer. For travellers who like to spend their down-time at a slower pace, aromatic wines are abundantly on offer in the region and can be enjoyed in one of the many beautiful country gardens in the region with a good book to accompany it. The Overberg is also home to natural hot springs which is sure to provide a unique swimming experience for visitors.

Hermanus and Gansbaai are both prime whale watching destinations during the whale season which takes place between June and December. Lesser known than the wine route, but equally impressive, is the Overberg’s fruit route which runs between the villages of Barrydale, Villiersdorp and Elgin. Wine farms can be found in the Bot Rivier, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Villiersdorp, Elim and Stanford. Nature reserves and gardens are plentiful in the region as well with the De Hoop Nature Reserve always proving to be popular.

If you feel like breaking away from the rat race for a weekend in the Overberg region, Cape Country Routes recommends staying at the De Hoop Collection, Augusta De Mist Country Retreat or the Agulhas CountryLodge and indulging in mouth-watering traditional food at the Old Goal onChurch Square Restaurant. 

Bottlierskop- Luxurious Tent Living

 Are you wanting to experience living out in the bush but not at the expense of comfort and luxury? Botlierskop has created a place that will suit your needs perfectly. Their luxurious tented suits have been designed using the surrounding bush as inspiration. The tents are carefully blended into the bush using the mountains as protection from the elements as well as using the canopy of tress for cool shade away from the African sun. All the suites are air-conditioned and have been  fully-equipped with hotel-level services such as a mini bar, telephone, safe, coffee & tea making facilities, electrical blanket, heater/air-con, guest amenities, bath robe, slippers and each tent has its own private deck. With the option of four types of tent living to select from, you can be assured that your needs will be met with ultimate luxury and great service. Whether you are looking for breathtaking views, river's edge living, honeymoon romance or a holiday for the whole family, we have tents suited for your needs. Botlierskop has a Spa on site as well as conference event services and it is a stunning venue for weddings. Friendly and professional staff will ensure that your stay is comfortable and most enjoyable.

Bottlierskop is home to 4 of the Big 5 and located only 4 hours away from Cape Town this is a 'must do' game reserve. Enjoy elephant and horse back rides through the park. Close enough to some of the most beautiful and serene beaches along the Garden Route you can spend a day on the beach or just a sunset walk to end off your day.

This truly is a place to relax and connect to Africa's untamed beauty. Check out their Rates and Packages and winter specials here 

50% Of Our Lions Extinct in 40 Years

Image courtesy of National Geographic

One of Africa's most famous animals, king of the animal kingdom, is under massive pressure with 50% of its population due to be extinct in 40 years. With the massive expansion of urban Africa over the last 20 years there has been an extreme decrease in lion population moving down from the top of Africa and now as far south as Namibia. In just the last 20 years the African lion has dwindled to almost 20 000 when it was once 450 000. If these animals are lost there will be a huge imbalance in the entire ecosystem spinning the natural process into turbulence causing huge problems in the future. This huge depopulation has been caused by human invasion into their habitat creating problems with loss of prey and pesticides and even illnesses that have been caused due to diet and habitat change. The situation is particularly dire in West Africa, where it is estimated that the lion population dropped from approximately 1,200 lions in 2002 down to between just 480 and 525 lions in 2012. The University of Duke established that the Savannah is in worse shape than the rain forests with less than 25% remaining. If we don't get involved and help conserve lions we may be facing a massive extinction from one of the top predators that has ever existed.

Ceres Zip Slide- Corporate team building adventure

Looking for a fun and exciting activity for corporate team building? Just less than 2 hours outside of Cape Town, nestled in the spectacular Ceres Valley, Ceres Zip Slide is the longest Zip Slide Tour in Africa. This 1.4km adrenaline filled adventure is the ideal breakaway for your team.  They will learn skills of trust and communication whilst having fun. With special rates for groups of 10 or more and with drinks, equipment and guides included, it is a fantastic day out that your team will be talking about for weeks. Rain or shine, no matter. Ceres Zip Slide will supply you with a two piece raincoat if it is raining free of charge  The slides run along the top of the Schurweberg Mountains below the Koekedouw Dam giving you a spectacular view of the fynbos and the rugged sandstone mountains. Book today and find out more information on their website

De Zeekoe- The Shy 5

The "Shy 5" are five small animals that cause great excitement when seen in the wild because it is so rare to see them. These animals are masters at elusiveness.  They duck and hide into burrows faster than most people can shout "Meerkat". The Meerkat, the Aardvark, the Porcupine, the Aardwolf and the Bat-eared fox are the famous Shy 5. All are nocturnal, except for the Meerkat.

The first time I saw a Porcupine I was surprised by its size. It was waddling around outside our cabin foraging for bulbs and anything we may have left on the braai. This member of the Shy 5 can weigh up to 16 kilograms and be as big as 60 cementers long. They defend themselves by stamping their feet on the ground and if that doesn't warn off predators they reverse quickly and drive their long quills into attackers. This is extremely painful.

Image courtesy of  National Geographic

The Aardvark is the strongest of the group. It looks almost pig-like and has a long nose which it uses to dig apart termite mounds. Its long slender tongue is used to lap up termites inside mounds. They dig burrows which other animals of the Shy 5 often make use of to hide from the heat or to escape danger. 

The Aardwolf is often mistaken for a hyena when first spotted but after proper evaluation it is obvious this is an Aardwolf. Their jaws are small with peg like teeth and they also feast on termites like the Aardvark. Often they loose teeth because of their badly shaped jaw but this makes little difference to their diet of soft insects and insect larvae. They defend themselves by puffing themselves up to look bigger and they make roaring sounds. 

The Bat - eared fox is one of the cutest of the Shy 5, although there is little competition with this motley crew. Also having a diet of insects they have huge ears to help them hear insects scurrying around under ground. Their fluffy bodies and tails and their mask-like hair around their eyes make them look like a villain sneaking around at night. With a jaw shape and fur that makes the Bat-eared fox look like it is always smiling, this little member of the Shy 5 has no problem wiggling its way into your heart when you finally get to see it. 

Image courtesy of Wild Facts

Last but definitely not least, the little Meerkat is a favourite amongst animal lovers. This pack animal spends all its time foraging for insects and bulbs. These extremely shy animals keep a look out one at a time while the other forage. They stand on their back legs and keep a watch out for predators and run into burrows at the first site of danger. 

Get the opportunity to see these creatures visit De Zeekoe  in Oudtshoorn. 

Cascade Country Manor- Beautiful Wedding Venue

Paarl is one of the most beautiful towns in the Winelands. The town is known for its haunting beauty and  deep history of wine making. The town is home to many well maintained Cape Dutch houses with beautiful historically attuned gardens and streets lined with old oak trees. It is picturesque with its surrounding vineyards and friendly people. 

Cascade Country Manor is tucked away in the heart of this gorgeous little town. Named after the cascading waterfall on the farm, the charming Cascade Country Manor was built for royalty and only has 15 rooms so you can look forward to an intimate and peaceful stay. 

This is the perfect spot to have your wedding. They can seat up to 100 people and if it is a small and intimate wedding you are looking for, Cascade Country Manor will assist with planning your special day. The luxurious spa on the grounds will ensure that you look and feel your best on your special day. Their friendly and professional staff will ensure that all your needs are met and you have the best day possible. Just an hour outside of Cape Town, this is a magnificent place to have a romantic wedding and take the opportunity for some gorgeous wedding pictures in front of the breathtaking waterfall. 

De Hoop Nature Reserve- Paradise in The Animal Kingdom

De Hoop Nature Reserve is a destination famous for its spectacular bird colonies and amazing whale breeding ground. More than 260 species have been recorded on the reserve, both residential as well as migratory types. This bird paradise is only 3 hours outside of Cape Town in the Overberg region. The De Hoop Vlei attracts a large amount of water birds which are spectacular to watch in their natural habitat. This quiet, serene area is also a marine conservation area. De Hoop Nature Reserve encompasses the breeding ground for the Southern Right Whale. It is estimated that more than 120 whales return to breed and calf during the winter months and into spring. Watching these whales leaping out of the water and to see them calving their young is amazing. This is the ultimate getaway and the prefect way to wind down and relax and reconnect with the calmness of nature.

Drikus Horse Trail Riding Tips

Riding a horse for the first time can be an intimidating experience but it doesn't have to be. A professional from Drikus Horse Trails has some tips for even the most nervous riders which are certain to help you feel more confident on the horse and make your riding experience enjoyable.

1. Keep your heels down. This not only makes you more secure on the horse (which will make you and the horse feel more comfortable) but if the horse gets spooked your foot will not get caught in the stirrup. 
2. Keep your back straight and your head up and lean back slightly. This gives you a secure position and if anything had to happen, you would be able to control the horse and prevent falling off. 
3. Try not to wear jeans. This can be very uncomfortable and leave you with bad chafing.
4. Keep your hands still. This keeps contact with the horse, giving you more control as well as strengthening the horse's back and neck muscles.
5. Use your fingers rather than your whole arm when leading the horse in the direction you would like it to go. By just opening and closing your fingers around the reigns you can control the horse. 
6. Keep your elbows bent and in line with your ears, shoulders and hips. This gives you more power and leverage when riding.
7. When getting on the horse, hold both reins in your left hand and gather them with a tuft of mane. Hold the right side rein a little tighter to help prevent the horse from swinging away from you as you get on. Turn the stirrup so that the leather lies flat when you are sitting in the saddle.

You are now ready to get on a horse and ride like a star. Remember, with more practice comes confidence and the horse will enjoy that as much as you will. Have a wonderful experience and enjoy every moment. Call Drikus Horse Trails today for your booking and more details. 

Evergreen Manor and Spa- The Perfect Honeymoon Getaway

Stellenbosch is a stunning, peaceful, romantic spot for your perfect honeymoon getaway. Only 53km's away from Cape Town making it a short 40 minute drive, Stellenbosch is a town that is overflowing with magnificent historical buildings and spectacular Cape Winelands farming. Being the second oldest European settlement in the province and one of the biggest wine export towns in South Africa, Stellenbosch is full of fun things to do. Driving around the town you can enjoy the majestic craggy mountains of the surrounding Cape Fold Mountain Range from almost any point. Enjoy the scenery of the rolling wine farms that surround the area and enjoy spectacular wines by visiting any one of the farms and spend a day wine tasting.

Nestled under ancient Oak Trees, surrounded by spectacular vistas of mountains and rolling vineyards, stands one of the most beautiful luxury Guest Houses in the area. Evergreen Manor and Spa was built in 1904 offering historical old world charm as well as every modern day luxury you could wish for. Spend your honeymoon immersing yourself in this splendid town and pamper your body and mind at the Evergreen Spa. Evergreen Spa offers an extensive range of wellness treatments. Our highly qualified therapists use the world renowned Declior range of products including Touch Treatments, Spa Body Treatments, Aroma Body Envelopments as well as specialised Skin Care treatments. Come relax and escape from the world with no guilt because you deserve the perfect honeymoon.

Elephants Sneaking Around

Elephants are one of the most gentle and intelligent animals in the South African bush. Many people don't realise the intelligence of these animals. They have an incredible memory and their emotional side is something to be wary of. A lot of research over the past few years has found elephants that have been through a culling season show signs of major distress and even self harm. They have the ability to show empathy towards other elephants suffering. They mourn for weeks when another elephant dies and a mother elephant will protect her baby with her own life. There have been recorded burial ceremonies by researchers where elephants try for hours to try help a hurt elephant by trying to lift the elephant and feeding it. If the elephant dies they bury the elephant in a shallow grave with branches and leaves. They have been known to do this for family members and with elephants from another herd and even sleeping or dead humans. An elephant herd is almost indestructible and only poaching, culling and death seem to break them up. Humans have become so captivated by these highly intelligent animals that they have discovered that elephants are able to mimic sounds they hear as well as use tools and are able to recognise themselves in mirrors. 
The African elephant can be seen at many of the game reserves around South Africa.

Kagga Kama Game Reserve Easter Special

If that doesn't convince you Kagga Kama Game Reserve is the best place to stay over the Easter Weekend then read a review sent to us by a Swiss couple who recently stayed in the outcrop on our reserve...

"During our travels we had the opportunity to sleep out in nature (but in style). 

Sunset and sunrise were breathtakingly beautiful and memorable! The universe of stars in between was infinite.

Unfortunately the time came to say goodbye, and now it’s back to civilization and reality..."

Meerkat Adventures- Are Meerkats good pets?

Image courtesy of Meerkats.net

Often people see these adorable animals and couldn't picture a better pet. But they are wild animals and as much happiness as they give you, they are not meant to be pets for 3 very simple reasons. 

1) They are social animals. They live together in groups of about 20 to 30 meerkats which are made up of hierarchies of families. Having a meerkat live without these groups cause them huge amounts of distress and unhappiness. When they live alone the trauma of not living in a pack often leaves them depressed and they lose hair and may even turn to self harm. 

2) Meerkats are used to foraging and hunting for their food so they tear up couches and carpets from their desperation to dig and scurry. They are very active creatures and spend most of their time doing this in the wild.  To try and inhibit this in a meerkat only causes harm and distress in the animal. It will also destroy your home and leave you resentful and angry at the animal. 

3) These animals are bad pets because they are wild and their instincts never truly leave. They see their owners as other meerkats. They don't see you as an owner. If they become angry and frustrated and the hierarchy seems to be weak they may bite you and attack you because that is what is done in the wild. Most meerkats that are adopted into homes end up in animal sanctuaries or in homes where they are abused because they are misunderstood. If you are thinking of getting a meerkat as a pet - don't.   If you want to see these animals in the wild visit Meerkat Adventures just outside Cape Town in Oudtshoorn for an up close and intimate peek into the lives of these adorable little animals.

Image courtesy of Meerkats.net

Montagu Country Hotel- A Secret Wine Route

The Montagu Country Hotel is tucked away between the Langeberg and River sonder end mountain ranges. This wine route offers some of the best kept secrets in the cape. Escape the hustle and bustle of the wine farms closer to the city and explore the historical town of Montagu where you can see the street that has more national monuments in one street than any other town in the country and once had their own currency, this town really is full of surprises. One thing that will grab your attention almost a soon as you get into the town is the friendliness and homeliness of the people of Montagu. The town has been voted town of the year due to their friendliness and hospitality. You can enjoy the gorgeous scenic views of the mountains and the amazing hot springs while getting to know the life and times of this unique village. The secret also lies in its prefect climate. Far enough North for the heat of the Karoo and far enough south so that you can enjoy the blissful wines that grown in the cape climate. Enjoy a sun downer cruise where you are encouraged to enjoy the wines rather than spit the fruits of their labour. Visit Montagu Country Hotel which is only 200km away from Cape Town and see a original and new part of the cape.

Ibamba Cheetahs

Image courtesy of Century 12 Wildlife

What is the fastest mammal on earth? 10 points to you if you answered "the cheetah". These majestic creatures can reach speeds of up to 100km/h in 5 seconds and they can reach total speeds of up to 120kmp/h. They have no natural enemies except for humans. Humans have trained cheetahs for hunting since 3000BC and their skins have been used as a status symbol for centuries. These animals capture people's amazement watching them run and hunt. Their perfectly engineered bodies are able to hunt in extremely fast but short-lived bursts. They have enlarged nostrils, heart and lungs enabling them to have increased air intake. Their muscular, long tail is used as a rudder to direct them during high speed hunting and their semi retractable claws allow them to have better grip on the earth. The female cheetah is solitary except when she is raising cubs, which she will do on her own. Unlike other big cats, cheetahs can purr but they cannot roar. They have been under attack for years from farmers who claim that cheetahs attack their livestock but research has discovered that cheetahs prefer not to hunt livestock so most killings are unnecessary. Cheetahs are sensitive animals when it comes to maintaining population numbers. Cubs have a high mortality rate and due to lack of interaction in the wild, breeding is slow. They are also very difficult to breed in captivity so conservationists have a hard time keeping numbers up. Visit Ibamba Lodge to see these magnificent creature in the wild.

Protea Farm's Spectacular Seasons

With winter approaching, the Protea Farm is starting to reach its peak in bloom. As the wind turns icy, it brings along snow and cold temperatures, the perfect temperature for the famous Koo Valley to start producing apples and pears and most beautiful of all, Proteas. Escape into this beautiful world tucked away in the heart of the Route 62. With spectacularly different views from one season to the next, you can enjoy each moment; whether cuddled in front of the fireplace or swimming in the farm lake.  There is also hiking along beautiful trails and mountain biking in the most idyllic territory.

Robertson Winery Win a Wacky Wine Weekend

Robertson Winery believes sharing is caring. So, not only can you win a weekend away with accommodation,  tickets, flights and meals to Wacky Wine Weekend but you get to share it with a friend! All you have to do is sms the last four digits of the barcode of a Robertson Winery product to 33483.  The competition runs until the end April so get your bottle of wine today! The weekend will be held on the 6th to the 9th of June. Robertson Winery was awarded silver for their Constitution Road Shiraz 2009 by Syrah du Monde 2012 for best Syrah/Shiraz 20012. Syrah du Monde occupies a special place amongst international competitions thanks to its worldwide scope and its rigorous method of selection. Robertson Winery’s flagship,Constitution Road Shiraz 2006, recently enjoyed international acclaim after having been awarded the highly coveted Regional Trophy, at the Decanter World Wine Awards held under the auspices of Decanter Magazine.

Rockwell Argus Specials From Their Treatment Suite

 Exciting news!! It's the Argus this weekend and our Treatment Suite on the 1st Floor is having an amazing Argus Cycle Special. We are giving away pre-cycle massages focusing on circulation to ensure that your legs and back muscles are prepared for your cycle for only R150. After your cycle return for you post-cycle full body massage focusing on recovery for only R285. We wish all the cyclists the best of luck this weekend and hope you enjoy every moment, we know all your training and preparation will ensure the prefect race.

Amazing specials at Knysna Log Inn for the Oyster Festival

Image courtesy of Mood Mill Lane

Over the last weekend of June (28th- 30th), Knysna is going to be a hustle and bustle of vibrancy and colour. Both the Knysna Cycle Tour and the Knysna Oyster Festival are scheduled for that weekend and it's going to be bigger and better than ever. The 10-day Knysna Oyster Festival has become renowned for offering an array of tastes and flavours of spectacular succulent oysters. The integration the Knysna Cycle Tour has made this festival one not to be missed.

Image courtesy of Pick'n'Pay

Take part in the oyster celebrations with many different suppliers providing the opportunity to dine on perfect oysters in a variety of different ways, mixing up tastes and flavours. Pick'n'Pay, the sponsors of the Festival, decided to integrate the Knysna Cycle Tour, which is part of the prestigious Mazda Mountain Bike Events. Take part in the mountain bike races which have distance options of 15km, 30km, 50km and and 80km options. The road event options of 50km and 100km and a child race so the whole family can get involved. Even more of a reason to take part is the 50km and the 80km mountain races have been selected as a official seeding event of the 2014 Cape Argus. Last but not least the races is the largest fund-raiser for the Rotary Club of South Africa.

Spend this amazing weekend in one of the most beautiful places in South Africa and stay at the Knysna Log Inn. This hotel embodies indigenous beauty which embodies the spirit and the character of the surrounding Knysna Forest. This tranquil escape will invite you to relax and reconnect with nature. Contact them today for amazing specials over the Oyster Festival.

Supertubes Collection Jeffery's Bay Surfin g Fanatics

Jeffreys Bay is a hot spot for surfers all over the world. What has come to be known as 'Supertubes', Jeffreys Bay has specialised waves that demand respect but are epic once you learn to handle them properly. Local surfers have learnt how to ride these waves perfectly but to the newbie, often it takes more than just a couple of sessions to get used to. These supertubes are home to the former Billabong Pro surfing competition which had its final run last year in 2012. They chose this space to hold to contest because of how specialised these waves are and their ability to test a surfers patience, tactical ingenuity and timing. Jeffreys Bay has become a world class surfing spot for both experienced and amateur surfers. and friendly locals and surfers are well accustomed to visitors. Often surfers visiting the spot make life long friends with local surfers as long as visitors respect the locals place in the surfing hierarchy. After a couple of sessions your face will be recognised by local surfers and they will allow you to rid waves. Stealing their waves before this go ahead is a no no and they will ensure you don't catch any waves. Its is there home.

Jeffreys Bay is a surfers paradise with almost the whole town angled towards surfing. The town is littered with surf schools and shops where you can find almost anything surfing orientated you could imagine. Surf forecasts and weather talk is on the lips of most people when overheard in town but there  is also so many other things to do besides surfing. Game Reserves only a short distance away and other fun activities like sand boarding and windsurfing, this is the ultimate getaway town. Why not stay at the perfectly named Supertubes Guest House and B&B which includes lock-up surfboard rack and with enough room to sleep 16 people its made for the love of JBay!

Oystercatcher Trail- A Total Escape into Unspoiled Nature

This 4 day hiking trail is an escape from reality while you meander and explore the peaceful and untouched coastline from Cape St Blaize Cave in Mossel Bay to the Gouritz River. Whilst enjoy your hike on the Oystercatcher Trail you will stay in top class accommodation in luxury lodges and rustic thatched Cape cottages. You will hike past the ancient stone age caves along the route at Pinnacle Point and can experience seeing dolphins,whales,seals, black oystercatchers and huge variation of other bird species that are peacefully at home in this tranquil environment. 

Every day is different as you venture from cliff tops to ancient sea front caves and wonderful unspoilt beaches. The natural flora and fauna are breathtakingly beautiful in their natural habit. Fynbos and herbs, wild oysters, scuttling sandpipers are easily found going about their day, unperturbed by your presence. Swim in small safe bays and crystal clear rock pools. Sunny warm days are separated by pitch black nights light up by the millions of bight stars and plants that can be seen clearly with the naked eye. This is truly a total escape into nature. 

Cascade Country Manor gives prize winner "Heaven on Earth"

A review from our prize winner: Chantal Oliver

I just returned with hubbie this afternoon from Cascade Country Manor and it was definitely a 10/10 for us. I needed to rest before the baby comes the end of the month. We loved the tranquil atmosphere, being surround by pine trees and olive groves and renewing our own vows under a gorgeous waterfall where weddings are done. The staff was really the most happiest and friendliest from all the places we have ever been and that says a lot about the place where they work, they were absolutely above what I normally experience at any hotel or guest house. 

The owner gave us such an insightful Olive Tasting and what an interesting man, he answered our questions with such patience and grace and we definitely love meeting humble and interesting people. He was so down to earth and we wish him the very best and hoping to hear he won the Best Olive Oil comp, if he enters this year. The spa, what can I say, absolutely heaven on earth. My swollen feet from the pregnancy gave me such pain and now its gone, thanks ladies, you gals rocked. The awesome fresh food, the olive rolls we had, it is worth booking your next wedding (wow, wish I could get married again, it would be here) or break here. You can swim in the lovely pool, relax in the sauna, eat healthily, have the best service and have lovely spa treatments and don't forget to do an Olive Tasting. Its divine. Now I am relaxed and just waiting on the birth of my first daughter, thanks everyone so much with lots of blessings and love.

The Old Gaol Restaurant Swellendam CANSA awareness

Today at Oefeningshuis in Swellendam there is an art exhibition featuring well-known artists from Cape Town ,Worcester, Bonnievale and Swellendam. Come along and find your favorite Painting or sculpture and you buy the piece and 30% of the profit will be donated to CANSA. There is also pottery and photographs for sale. There will be wine tasting as well as an auction for unsold items at 17:30 today to ensure that the most money is raised possible. Swellendam dedicated themselves to raising money for CANSA. This weekend you can partake in a relay for CANSA which will be running over the course of the weekend. If you decide to get involved in the CANSA awareness in Swellendam then pop into the Old Gaol Restaurant to refill and revitalise. the very traditional restaurant is dedicated to local relationship building and ensure that staff are employed from the community and they train them and ensure they have sustainable jobs.

The Rockwell's live music on Thursdays AND a competition!

After last week’s hugely successful live music jazz evening with free wine tasting and snacks to go along with it, we have decided to make it a weekly event. Every Thursday we will have a great band which will ensure your wind down to the weekend is fabulous and fun. As usual, free wine will be served from 6:30pm and the band will begin at 7:30pm so pull through early for some Thursday evening mingling. This week’s superb band is Cape Town based jazz band Cardigan Buzz. They are sure to help you get into the ‘swing’ of things with their vibey jazzy, folksy swing style. The bluesy vibe of the saxophone and the melodic electric guitar are sure to get you swaying and your foot tapping before you even realise it.

This is also the perfect time to sit down and dine at our brand new restaurant which we are so excited about. Experience the amazing ambiance as spectacular glass chandeliers hang above you like bird cages and fairy-tale paintings of birds on the columns that surround you while you relax and enjoy the friendly and calming atmosphere. Use this chance to take the opportunity to enter our amazing competition. You stand a chance to win a two night stay in the luxurious penthouse overlooking the stunning city of Cape Town as well as breakfast for two. All you have to do is suggest a name for our new restaurant. Entries are at the Rockwell bar as well as on our Facebook site. 

 

Uwe Koetter Custom Designed Jewellery

Are you struggling to by a gift for a friend or a girlfriend overseas? Do you want to spoil her and show her how special she is and how much she means to you? Uwe Koetter is the ultimate place to get unique stunning jewellery commissioned so you can co-design the most unique and memorable piece of jewellery you can imagine. Work alongside and collaborate internationally renowned mater goldsmiths and award winning designers like Johan Louw who assist you to design exactly what you wish in the most perfect way possible. The final product is promised to surpass your expectations and take not only your style requirements into consideration but also your budget. Being one of the only Cape Town jeweller who has a De Beers Trained Diamond Grading Expert on site, Uwe Koetter only select stones with the best qualities across Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat. In-house diamond expert, Eileen Wium says, "Proportion is vital. Without good proportions Colour, Clarity and Caratage the value becomes redundant  which is why we guarantee that every stone bought from Uwe Koetter is perfectly proportioned: to maximize its brilliance and value”. No matter what you are looking for or whether you know exactly what you want or you’re still ion the planning stages Uwe Koetter will be able to meet all your requirements to show your loved one how much you truly care.