Travel and Accommodation

You may not know this, but we have a tropical paradise right in our backyard. As you exit Mpumalanga and make your way up to Mozambique’s province of Maputo, you can see the vegetation change. The landscape changes significantly with rolling hills and palm trees that become more evident the further north you travel.  

Mozambique is a fairly large country with an awful lot of outdoorsy things to do. Diving, fishing and top class R and R is what you can expect to experience in Moz. Because of the large distances involved to travel to numerous provinces in Mozambique, this article will focus on three provinces fairly close to South Africa.  

Maputo   

We start our journey in the bustling city of Maputo, based in the Maputo province.  It is a beautiful city with old buildings that will make the retrophiliac in you come alive. The strong Portuguese influence, even post-war, has left an array of gorgeous European style buildings that will leave you walking the streets of the city all day. Maputo is relatively safe.  Police patrol most of the popular areas, but the general rules apply. Don’t show off any expensive tech or cameras. Another important thing to be reminded of straight away is that it is very offensive to take photos of locals – especially law enforcement. Get to know some basic Portuguese and you will be appreciated for it if you do happen to encounter a law enforcement official.   

Mozambicans are proud people who have a deep respect for their country and people. They have been through an awful lot and till today many poor are still suffering the consequences. Hotels are your place of choice to stay when you are in the city. Easy access to Wi-Fi and international amenities – should you wish to have them. Staying close to the centre is a good option especially if you are going on an architectural joyride – this is your best bet.   

Stay Here

On my last visit to Maputo I was lucky enough to stay at the Pestana Rovuma. A 4-star hotel only a two-minute walk from Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Imaculada Conceição (Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception). This art deco church is one architectural dream not to miss. Try and catch it open to sit down inside for a few quiet moments. The Polana Serena is also a must-see. The hotel is beautiful with views for days. Have a quick lunch but be prepared to pay in US Dollars. The food is as fancy as the prices suggest. Use the opportunity to take many beautiful photos here.   

Besides a large variety of international hotels, restaurants are also easy to find all along the coastline of Maputo. A family favourite and regular visit is Costa do Sol. Their food has been consistent since we started visiting in the mid-90s. Don’t miss this gem. And although many may argue that it is here where you get the best peri-peri sauce – I beg to differ. This is what leads us to another favourite spot in Xai Xai. 

As you leave the city behind, the landscape quickly suggests that you are heading to smaller towns and quieter beaches.  

Gaza  

Xai Xai is in the province of Gaza. This bustling town alongside the Limpopo River is the capital of Gaza Province and is situated 200 kilometres north of Maputo. It is a relatively large province known for its beaches and wildlife reserves if you travel more inland. The next stop brings you down a crammed, bushy dirt road, over a few dunes and into – the place of the rising sun. Pun intended. For the best sunrises and sunsets, Nascer do Sol is where you will want to be. The name means the birth of the sun in Portuguese. 

Stay Here

Their beach (Praia de Chizavane) is quiet and a silent refuge from the usual busy beaches we are used to in South Africa. The lodge is equipped with self-catering accommodation paired with a family restaurant to serve everyone, including the vegetarians. Their seafood platters are known well by tourists, and so is their iconic peri-peri sauce. Stop by their little convenience shop, Coco Loco, to pick up a few bottles. It is the best you will ever taste. Here you can also find touristy buys sourced and made by locals from Mozambique in the near vicinity.  

The lodge has a stunning pool area. The sea is safe to swim in, but beginners beware. These waters are not manned by lifeguards and with many rocks and currents, your best bet is to stay in the shallows and swim out during low tide. Watch this video to see Nascer do Sol up close and personal from the Africa Travel Channel.  

Xai Xai also recently finished their international airport, making it even easier to travel to. Now you can skip Maputo altogether and start your trip in Xai Xai. The lodge shares a long list of useful information to take careful consideration of before you travel to Mozambique. See the list here.  

Inhambane  

Inhambane is the next stop and the furthest I have been privileged enough to travel up to in Mozambique. Also, the most tropical of the previous two locations. Well-travelled tourists say the more north you travel, the more beautiful Mozambique becomes. This is all too true for Inhambane. Tofo beach is a popular destination nearby making it a true, tropical dream-destination.   

Tofo is a quint beach town that lies on the Barra Beach peninsula in Inhambane Province and is an easy 22 kilometre drive from Inhambane city. This small fishing village is famed for its curved Tofo Beach (Praia do Tofo), coral reefs and friendly locals. It offers a unique Afro-Latin cultural experience boasting world-class diving, big waves and the chance to enjoy local seafood.  

Stay Here

Turtle Cove is the perfect getaway for those seeking a mind and body retreat. They are known for their yoga retreats all within walking distance of the beach. This little resort is approximately 450 kilometres north of Maputo.  

Inhambane also has a wide variety of places to wine and dine, although tourists enjoy the shack-style food possies the best. Nothing beats a beach braai with local Mozambican beer. Branko’s, Guju’s Beach Bar and Tofo Tofo are all great places to enjoy local food and generous portions. 

Get your vaxx, pack your bags, and head to tropical Mozambique. 

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These days, whatever you are looking for, the answer is usually already in your pocket. Whether it’s a fitness tracker, a logbook, an egg timer, or a sleep soother – your smartphone will probably have the solution in app format.  

But what about lighting? What if you could manage your house lighting from your phone? We’re not talking just switching on and off. What if you could dim your lights without having to rewire your house? Do you need bright white light for an art project on the dining room table and a warm glowing light for dinner?  This is the smart lighting era.

The Smart Lightbulb 

There are various brands on the market, ranging in price and with different levels of connectivity. But mostly, they all have a couple of things in common:  

1. Smart lightbulbs come in standard shapes and sizes and these lightbulbs and will fit most light fittings you already have in your house. ( No need to rewire!) 

2. They offer a range of lighting controls, including different shades of white light and dimming ability without the need for a dimmer switch installation. 

3. Most LED smart lightbulbs also offer a wide spectrum of coloured light choices, adding a bit of flair to accent lighting. Use them as part of your décor philosophy and make the most of your existing lamps.  

4. There is a security bonus, as you can switch lights on remotely, or even link certain colours and types of lights to your smart alarm system. (Think flashing red lights to go with your alarm siren…) 

5. You can control your smart lightbulbs directly from your phone, using one of a couple of different apps.  

6. Being LED lightbulbs, they are energy efficient and using them for normal, everyday lighting won’t necessarily cost more than a standard bulb.  

Find the right lighting for your house.

Find more Wanderlust articles here.

If you need a great weekend away to escape from everything, three hours from Johannesburg is the High Five Trail, previously known as the Num Num Hiking Trail, between Badplaas and Machadodorp. Don’t judge this trail by its location or length, it’s a wonderful hike but it’s not for the faint-hearted. The technicality of the trail is worth it for the breath-taking scenery that is equally matched by the hospitality of the locals. 

Slack Packing

The camps are very comfortable and clean. As they are self-catering, you need to take your own bedding and food along. You can choose from one to five-day trails with slack packing, where you hike between camps and your luggage is taken for you. All you need to take on the hike is a day pack that includes water and snacks for the day’s adventure. 

You can start your trail from any of the various camps: Pongola Express, Aloe Kaya, Bermanzi Camp and Candlewood. The best way is to do a circular hike, starting and ending at Pongola Express, with stops at each camp. For safety reasons, a minimum of four people is required in a hiking group.  

My group and I did an adjusted 5-day hike from Pongola Express to Aloe Kaya, Candlewood and back to Pongola Express.  

Day 1 – Pongola Express to Aloe Kaya

Pongola Express provides a unique experience as you stay in an old renovated train. Staying in the train compartments makes you feel like you have gone back in time, while being provided with all the necessary amenities of the modern world. 

The hike from Pongola to Aloe is about 8km but will take about 5 hours. The views are incredible but the technical climb will test your abilities. 

Day 2 – Aloe Kaya to Candlewood 

At Aloe Kaya, you can blissfully enjoy the scenery. What is particularly unique about this camp is the “loo with a view” as the bathrooms are placed on the escarpment and look out at the rolling hills. There are also open showers placed between the sandstone rock formations, giving you a truly relaxing outdoor experience during your stay. 

Hiking to Candlewood will take you through the gorge, across rivers and passed waterfalls. A quick splash under the waterfall is a great way to cool down and relax before carrying on. 

Day 3 – Into the gorge and back to Candlewood

The circular trail down into the gorge and back up again is very tough but worth it for the spectacular views. As a green, electricity-free camp, Candlewood is the perfect chance to stop and truly enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

Day 4 – Candlewood to Pongola Express

Day four is time to start your way back to Pongola Express. The trail is tough and mostly downhill. Along the way you can enjoy walking amongst the trees. Look out for a mysterious rusted car door lodged between growing trunks. There are also several ladders to climb and bridges to cross on this route. 

Day 5 – Exploring the waterfalls at Pongola Express 

The final day of hiking will take you back to the water. Don’t miss this last chance to swim in the rivers and under the waterfalls before getting back to your car. 

The High Five Hiking Trail proves that you don’t need to head to the Drakensburg to enjoy a diverse, advanced hike in the mountains at an affordable price. The trail manager, Pieta and his team are passionate about the environment they look after and have taken great care to ensure the trails are well-kept and clearly marked. 

Once again, this hike is not for beginners. Proper hiking boots, socks and a moderate level of fitness are highly recommended. 

Text and images by Roland van der Merwe

Thoughts of our capital city don’t exactly conjure visions of an exotic holiday destination. However, chances are good that you are going to have to cross the “boerewors gordyn” (boerewors curtain) at least once in your life to visit one of Pretoria’s many embassies, educational institutions, hospitals or sporting facilities. In recent years Pretoria has shaken off her dusty historic image and is ready to show you her quirky side on your next visit.  

We’ve picked a few hidden gems to explore if you have a few hours between appointments or are tempted to cross the Jukskei and make a day of discovering the fun and creative side of Pretoria.    

Milner Fashion House

Stay: A Fashionable Hide- Away  

Have you always wondered what a day in the life of a fashion designer looks like? Tucked away in the leafy suburb of Waterkloof, Milner Fashion House (MFH) boasts two gorgeous guest suites set in a lush garden. However, it’s the bustling fashion studio on site that gives you a glimpse behind the scenes. When you visit MFH you might encounter models and photographers pitching up for a shoot or stylists and celebrities popping in to create magic in the onsite studio.  

Known for dressing the likes of Oscar nominee Terry Pheto and HSH Princess Charlene of Monaco – ERRE, the fashion designer duo label located at MFH, is a beloved fixture on the South Africa fashion scene. Staying at MFH gives one a rare opportunity to see the exquisite detail of runway garments up close or view the objects, images and textiles that inspire the ERRE team.  

Even if fashion isn’t your scene MFH is the ideal base for a business stay. Just 10 minutes from the nearest Gautrain station and with the city centre, numerous embassies, universities, schools and sporting facilities minutes away, your commute becomes a breeze. Free WIFI and meeting facilities mean you can even schedule all your meetings on site.    

And if you would like to visit – but don’t need to stay over, keep an eye on their social media. MFH often hosts small-scale events, everything from fun crafting classes to live music or foodie demonstrations.    

Insta Love

Taste: Sweet Discoveries  

The sweet tooths among us had better make a note of this hidden gem! In their own words, Jack Rabbit Chocolate is a “humble but fancy AF artisanal dessert studio based in Pretoria, South Africa.” On entering their beautiful little store, you are drawn to a display case filled with stunning handmade chocolate bonbons – each an exquisite miniature work of art. The available flavours change from time to time, so check their social media to keep up to date with the flavours of the week. When we visited, the Burnt Butter Burbon was our absolute favourite! A handpicked box of these beauties will make a gorgeous gift to the chocolate lover in your life. It was a real struggle leaving there with a reasonable amount of chocolate – the proverbial kid in a candy store comes to mind! Besides the bonbons, there is all manner of snackable chocolate-covered treats – think everything from almonds and pistachios to cherries and peanut butter stuffed dates.   

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Remember to leave some space in your tummy, because right next door awaits a lovely old fashioned ice cream parlour – Whisk Away Ice Cream. Ice creams, sorbets and ice cream cakes are handmade from only the best locally sourced ingredients and with no nasty artificial additives. We got some ice cream cones to enjoy on their veranda and can highly recommend both the passionfruit cheesecake and Turkish delight flavour – out of this world delicious. A container of pear and pecan ice cream also went home with us – the perfect after-dinner treat!    

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Both these treasures are located at the Waterkloof Heights shopping centre – a small centre punching far above its weight with regards to excellent foodie choices. Also, check out the Magic Bus – Latino Street Grill and Pride of India restaurants.     

Stroll: A Secret Garden  

If you need a change of scenery after a day spent inside – a stroll through a beautiful green space is just the ticket.  Gariep Plants is a retail succulent nursery situated in Faerie Glen in the east of Pretoria. Their garden is home to a large collection of succulent plants, bulbs, and many other perennials and shrubs. The wide variety of plants in the garden abounds with colour and flowers throughout the year – however, a visit during the winter months is worth your time to see their collection of indigenous aloes in bloom.  

They have a large selection of succulents for sale – so you can take a bit of the magic home with you and make your #plantmom dreams come true. We lost a good amount of time pouring over the fascinating collection of succulents in the nursery – from weird alien shapes to mesmerising patterns – the creativity of nature never ceases to amaze.    

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Explore: Antique Route 6   

If you get a kick out of unearthing hidden gems in dusty little antique shops, then set a day aside to explore this meandering route! The route comprises of seven antique stores each with its own quirky flavour scattered through the beautiful and leafy historic area of Pretoria Moot. With some of the stores packed to the rafters (looking at you Sinkhuisie) you will satisfy all your treasure hunting cravings.  

Little Treasures is a worthy first stop on the route with true antique pieces in their collection. They have a large selection of antique clocks,  we found this out to our delight, when we stepped into the shop on the hour and heard dozens of different chimes going off at once! They also specialise in repairing clocks. 

Retro Rabbit is difficult to miss due to the enormous scrap metal rabbit on the roof! We enjoyed their collection of crazy 80s wedding dresses – the vast amounts of ruffles, sequins and lace is something to behold. They restore and revitalise vintage lifestyle items to suit the taste and style of the modern consumer. Family owned and operated, they offer bespoke up-cycled furniture and funtiques to folks who seek something unique.  

 has been a Pretoria highlight since 1999. They specialise in items from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s – so if that retro look lies close to your heart – visit them! 

Sinkhuisie Antiques – everything and the kitchen sink applies here! We were left speechless by the sheer amount of stuff contained in this space. According to their website, they stock more than 4 million Rands worth of antiques, collectables and garden art. They can also assist clients with any restoration needed to bring back much-loved items to their former glory.  

Get the map of the route here:  

Pretoria is evolving from a strait-laced capital into a quirky, fun city, ready to show off all her hidden delights to you.Next time something comes up and you need to visit the Jacaranda city – make sure you seek out these unique places and experiences!

Read more of our travel articles here.

Musician, composer, producer, animal lover and adventurer, Ann Jangle has been performing music across Africa and Europe for over twelve years. After living in Germany for two years, her return to South Africa and the adoption of her furry best friend, Kevin set Ann Jangle on “the most ambitious journey of her life” – cycling, woman alone from South Africa to Kenya to raise awareness for the endangered animals and uplifting communities through music as part of the “AFRICAN DREAM PARADE”. Ann Jangle took some time out to share her adventure before setting off to complete the trip up the East Coast of Africa, cycling from Kenya to Cairo on the “AFRICAN DREAM ODYSSEY”.  A story by Ann Jangle.

You can listen to this article in Sotho in our June DigiMag.

Nothing, aside from judging someone by their skin colour, baffles me more than the words: ‘time to settle down’. In my world, this is a natural phenomenon which happens at the right time and cannot be forced, so I settled down the only way I knew how and got a dog, called Kevin. Kevin made such an impact on my overall health and happiness that I decided to spend the rest of my life using music to help animals. Kevin and I sold off everything we had (luckily, he travelled light with only a tennis ball and some pellets) and bought a van.  

We started the AFRICAN DREAM PARADE back in Cape Town. Joined by close friends and brilliant sound guy, Mike Hunter and trumpet player Keegan Steenkamp we travelled over 25 000kms across the country and raised 3 tons of dog food, which we donated to Animal Welfare organisations in the area where we performed. Word spread that we were helping animals through music and got asked to perform in every Province across the country. 

After almost a year on the road I got invited to perform at the Kilifi New Year’s Festival in Kenya. We were back in the Western Cape. I dropped the guys off at home and decided to sell the van and buy the oldest Toyota I could find to prove a point by driving, woman alone across the continent with my two dogs. I found a 1996 Toyota Rav 4, had it fixed up with a new engine, clutch, brakes, almost to a point of a brand-new vehicle, and got all the animal injections and paper work up to date for my dogs to cross borders to Kenya. 

By the time I reached Kenton on Sea in the Eastern Cape, a 10-hour drive from Cape Town, I realized that petrol was going to cost a pretty penny. I also had no idea on how to fix a car in the middle of Africa. I did a mini crash course on mechanics and had enough time to do more planning. I took on a job for some extra cash at a local lodge, running a marine and wildlife conservation program for youngsters from overseas who had finished school and wanted to learn more about the environment, as a type of gap-year. One good thing that did come from my short time there, was that I got to meet a woman who changed the entire course of my life, forever – Blanca Fernandez a.k.a Blanca on a Bike. 

She arrived late one afternoon on her bicycle – she had been cycling across the world. I remember her ridiculous shoe tan and her short, scruffy, wild grey hair. I asked her where she had come from. She said: ‘London, about a year ago.’ At the age of 61 she cycled, woman alone, from London to China, flew to Egypt, cycled Cairo to Cape Town via the East Coast of Africa and back to London via the West Coast of Africa.  

I decided then and there that I was going to cycle to Kenya instead. I knew that if she could do it, I could too. At this stage I had only cycled around the block a few times in Berlin to a nearby market. I had no idea about anything related to cycling, I didn’t even own a bike, but like with everything in my life, once I decide to do something, nothing on this planet can stop me from following through. Even if it kills me. Guess I`m too stubborn to quit.  

I had no idea where to start though. I resorted to Facebook and asked publicly if anyone had a bicycle for me to cycle to Kenya with. After realising how ridiculous this sounded, I deleted my post an hour later. Two weeks later I saw a message in my inbox from a guy in Centurion who was importing NORCO bicycles from Canada. Matthew De Jongh, a man I hold very dear to my heart, sponsored me a bicycle, panniers and a tool kit to embark on the most ambitious journey of my life. Matthew showed me how to change a bicycle tyre and work the tools he had given me a week before embarking on my solo cycle across Africa.  I was then dropped close to the Ramotswa border post of Botswana on 11 June 2019. My birthday. After crossing into Botswana, the staff on the South African side of Passport control ran over to the fence to sing “Happy Birthday” to me. It really made a huge difference. I was petrified.  

Over the next 8 months I endured the greatest hardships, the biggest challenges, not only physically but emotionally too. Being alone for so long you really do a lot of inner work. You face your demons head on and there are no distractions from that. I almost froze to death on the Trans Kalahari Highway in peak Winter. I was pretty clueless about good quality gear needed for the trip and my useless sleeping bag’s zip broke about a week in. I had no idea about head wind, climbing hills, how to deal with elephant encounters or how much water to have. As dumb as this sounds, it was a blessing in disguise because I think if I knew more about what I was in for, I might not have done it. 

As hard as it was, it was also the most free and fulfilled I’ve ever felt in my life. I wrapped my tent cover around me after freezing in Botswana one night and was left to sleep in, the equivalent to a tiny mosquito net, which allowed me to fall asleep staring at the stars each night. My little tent. This was home for the next 7 months. 

I left on this journey with one goal in mind. To raise awareness for endangered wildlife and uplift communities through music. I was also sponsored a Martin Mini Backpackers guitar and strapped it to my bike. We might not all speak the same language, but we all speak `music`. Especially in Africa. I spoke and sang to thousands of children at different schools in many different villages across Africa. Most of the kids sang to me too. We communicated as best as we could with words, but with music, we spoke for hours, dancing, singing, making sounds. I learned a lot about endangered animals as I visited many organisations. It was important to me that my message to the children was that our relationship with animals and our environment directly affects our relationship with self.  

 The greatest moment was reaching that Kenyan border. The overwhelming feeling of accomplishment, knowing you really CAN do anything you put your mind to. Every achievement comes with sacrifice and hardships. Victory comes when you push past the things that scare you. You are only faced with challenges because it builds character and all those qualities you need further on in life. I returned back to South Africa from Kenya in February 2020, just before lockdown started.  The journey was intense but changed every aspect of my life. From the way I now write music to the way I see people, my adaptation to daily life was a struggle at first but as with every great adventure, it only sparks off a desire to continue onto the next one. 

Currently I am on the “AFRICAN DREAM ODYSSEY”. We have spent the last month getting a vehicle to drive us to Tanzania. From there we will be finishing the East African cycling route to Egypt. With the vehicle we can revisit the organisations and schools I spent time with on my cycling trip. See how they have grown or the struggles they now face after Covid. Follow up is important to sustain relationships.  I fell in love with Bagamoyo, a small village about 62km North of Dar Es Salaam on the coast of Tanzania. I knew when I arrived there on my bicycle that my heart belonged there. Funnily enough, Bagamoyo means “To lay your hearts down”. There is a lot of work to be done with the community there. My dream is to grow my independent movement known as “CONSCIOUS CONCERTS”. “Conscious Concerts” involve the community. It`s a screening of motivational local documentaries, currently my own, for now, but later I would like to screen local artists at work, whether dancing, singing, working with animals, doing good, wholesome acts to help build communities, a talk on community upliftment and a musical collaboration with local artists. I started this movement upon my arrival in Cape Town after returning from Kenya. Lockdown put an abrupt stop to it but I saw the potential. I believe in the movement. 

We start this journey to Tanzania our first shows booked starting in mid-May in Namibia. The gig money will cover our fuel, food expenses and fund the next documentary.  Thanks to `JUST MUSIC SOUTH AFRICA` you can now view my cycling documentary called AFRICAN DREAM PARADE on Youtube”.

For more information please visit www.annjangle.com

You can also donate via PayPal 

For a donation of $100 or more, you can have your logo displayed on our vehicle making its way across Africa on the AFRICAN DREAM ODYSSEY - raising awareness for endangered animals and uplifting communities through music.  

Cape Town doesn’t just have one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, it has so much more to offer. Join me in taking a walk through the exquisite scenery it offers, the amazing hikes and MTB cycle routes, gems to eat at and wonderful small wine farms to taste some local wine. Whether you’re a proud Capetonian or a visitor you know this is a special place and that there is something for everyone here.  

On Sunday morning we take the M3 up towards Ou Kaapse weg, over Black Hill and into Glen Cairn. Stopping at Dixies Restaurant is a usual must, but not today as we are on our way to one of the most iconic places in South Africa, the ever beautiful Cape Point. Driving along the route where thousands of cyclists usually take on the 109km Cape Town Cycle Tour, through history-rich Simon’s Town, I reminisce about my own experience of this internationally known cycle event, before COVID-19 hit. The scenery along the road is already quite beautiful as you drive along the coast to the turn-off.    

At the gate, your SA ID allows you to pay a mere R85 per person, for a full day adventure. Driving along the long road, through the most beautiful fauna and flora, with the sea peeking out on both sides of the road, are numerous short and long hikes along this route.  The little beaches should not be missed as the bright blue waters are one of the most exquisite sites that Cape Town has to offer.  

When you reach the end of the road you have a few options, enjoy the scenery with a pizza and beer at the restaurant, hike to the top or take the funicular. We opted for the latter and it was such fun. As you reach the top and peek around the corner, the view completely takes your breath away! The bluest of blue seas, the most beautiful rock formations and an area that is unbelievably rich in history. You can also visit some of the very first lighthouses in SA, that still stands today.   Take your family or a friend and go enjoy a memory-filled day of fun, sun, beauty, hiking and history at Cape Point.  

We have to have a little something for the wine lovers, I mean, this is Cape Town after all and let’s be honest, we do make the best wine in the world. Don’t worry beer drinkers, there’s something here for you too.  

If you’ve been to the, highly recommended, Stellenbosch wine route a hundred times and want something a little more unique, I have a special treat in store for you with two “boutique” experiences that come highly recommended. First on this list is the Cape Point Vineyard picnic and wine tasting. Book (tasting and picnic separately) ahead of time to avoid disappointment and prepare yourself for a feast of the taste buds and the eyes. Imagine a vineyard in the mountains overlooking Noordhoek, tasting wine in an old stone building and enjoying a prepared picnic basket after.   

The second is the incredible Klein Roosboom Boutique Wine! They have converted their old concrete wine tanks into private tasting rooms, each themed differently, and a truly unique experience. Bookings are most definitely essential.  

Beer and Gin tasting should be high on the priority list since we can brag with some of the best craft beer and gin around. Here are a few of what Cape Town has on offer:  

• Hope Distillery  
• Classic Cats Craft Gin Bar  
• The Gin Bar  
• Wilderer
• Banana Jam Cafe
• Beer House
• Jack Black Beer
• Woodstock Brewery  

CALLING ALL FOODIES

Along with Cape Town’s views, wines, beer and gin, we have some of the greatest food experiences. Starting off with one of my personal favourites Saveur restaurant in Simon’s Town. Beautiful food, beautiful views and beautiful people. All the food is made with an extra touch of love and they have the most delightful staff (good enough to make even a mother-in-law smile). If you’re looking for something a little fancier, The Hussar Grill has never disappointed any carnivore, that’s for sure! Every delightful bite is perfect! And for our plant-based eaters… Plant Cafe or The Kind Kitchen is the way to go.  

Save the best seafood joints for last. Go visit these guys for food with a view:

• Seaforth restaurant  
• Lucky Fish & Chips 
• Fisherman’s Wharf
• Quay Four  

We all have a little adventurer within us and whether it be cycling, hiking, rowing, boarding or jumping. Cape Town has it all. Some of the most amazing MTB tracks can be found right here by visiting The Bike Park or driving out to Meerendal Wine Estate for a cycle in their back yard. Even if you’re not an adrenaline junky and just want to hire a bicycle for an hour or two, just pop over to the Sea Point Pavilion and hire a bike.  

Personally, I fall too often and have traded in my cleats for a pair of hiking shoes. Taking time to relax, take a deep breath and experience the wonders of Elephants Eye, Silvermine, Newlands Forest and the Kalk Bay Caves  

Here are a few additional activities I would recommend you look into:  

• Sandboarding  
• Kayaking in Houtbay  
• Skeleton Gorge for serious hikers  
• Paragliding  

Honourable Mentions:  

• Spice Route for a full day of tasting food, beer, wine, chocolate and more!  
• Scala Battery Red Hill Simon’s Town for the most beautiful view around  
• Ficks Restaurant in Hermanus is highly recommended if you want to drive out for the day and enjoy the most glorious view ever!  
• Gigi Rooftop at Gorgeous George for an award-winning cocktail  

In summary, this friendly city wants you to make beautiful memories. If you’re a Capetonian that’s never been to Table Mountain or Cape Point, make a plan. If you’re from a neighbouring city, come visit us soon!  

About Stefanie Barnard  

Stefanie is a fun-loving, loud, spontaneous, silly, adventurous, gin-drinking, wine tasting, and sometimes misunderstood, self-proclaimed weirdo! Born and raised in Cape Town, besides for a short 4-year stint in Jozie. Her motto in life is to try everything at least once and she believes deeply and sincerely that “respect is one of the greatest expressions of love”.   

For over twenty years, the Louw family of Johannesburg South have been planning and developing the idea for a mixed-use development that would add value to the community while protecting the natural environment. Their vision has now become a reality with the launch of Thaba Eco Village, developed by Balwin Properties. We spoke to Co-Founder and Visionary of the development, Reuben Louw, to find out more about how Thaba Eco Village is redefining urban green living and responsible development.  

A stone’s throw away from the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, the idea for Thaba Eco Village began with the realisation that “… to protect a large piece of the environment, we need to have one section that has to be a high-density development to fund the cost of protecting nature and enhancing it.” said Reuben.   

Developers, Balwin Properties have stayed true to this original idea by allowing the natural environment of the area to dictate the layout of Thaba Eco Village. The continued involvement of the community, particularly during the early stages, also had a significant impact on the development. “During the application process, we also welcomed public participation to give us some principles and guidelines in terms of height, visual impact, colouring, the type of cladding that you use, creating green lanes so that it’s not a concrete jungle… it’s broken up in sections with green parks and spaces in between…” added Reuben.  

Apart from Thaba Eco Village, there is a macro vision being investigated which will bring various green initiatives to the area. This vision is subject to all the required environmental and town planning applications and processes. 

“It is important to note that one should not confuse Thaba Eco Village with some of the macro vision ideas going around for the area. These macro vision ideas will have to go through many changes and all the compulsory Environmental Impact Assessments, as well as thorough public participation before a final product can be presented,” explained Reuben.  

As a mixed-use development, Thaba Eco Village benefits from an integrated society that adds value to its community through job creation, business development and recreational activities. “An integrated society is where people from different age groups and backgrounds can rub shoulders in a coffee shop. Where a student can live in a community where they live like a millionaire, even if they’re not one yet. The benefits of integrated mixed-use developments are that you don’t need to travel, there’s less public transport, it focuses on a better lifestyle. It’s the concept of live, work, eat, pray, exercise, recreation, all those aspects within walking distance. That’s basically what we’ve always wanted for this development.” stated Reuben.  

Thaba Eco Village also forms part of a much-loved area for mountain biking (Thaba Trails, built by South African Cyclist, Wendell Bole), hiking and eco-tourism. The greater community will now be able to access these facilities through the Eco-Centre and enjoy new additions such as a coffee shop, mountain bike shop, Montessori School and more. The use of the trails has always been a valuable way to encourage community responsibility as active users help maintain the trails and report any possible issues. The hope is that the development of Thaba Eco Village will further contribute towards protecting and promoting Johannesburg as a tourism destination where visitors can enjoy all the wildlife and biodiversity that the Highveld has to offer.  

You can find out more about Thaba Eco Village here.

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As a family, we love to travel around South Africa. Not only to visit our beautiful natural wonders but also some pretty cool architectural masterpieces.  As an architect in South Africa, I appreciate our unique environment in the creation of the masterpieces that are well worth a visit. Here are a few of my favourite architectural hot spots in South Africa.

Bosjes Kapel

by Adam Letch

Situated in the Cape’s Breede Valley. The Bosjes Kapel unusual and elegant design complements the surrounding mountain range. Created by Steyn Studio in London, the chapel is open to the public.  

Arrival, via a narrow path over the water, also heightens the experience, imparting a level of tension and concentration to the procession. The floating roof is a biblical reference to Psalm 36:7: “How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.”  

From its interior, you can marvel at the sweeping hills and valleys. The reflective pool in the front courtyard gives the building the illusion of weightlessness.  

Bosjes Kapel is a prime example of how dazzling architectural additions to the landscape can create a destination, making a place through its mere presence, but also in the way that it mediates people’s experience of the spirit of place.  

The natural locale transforms cues from traditional Cape Dutch architecture to create a contemporary SA icon.  

Circa Gallery

by Tristan Maclaren

Located on the highly visible corner of Jellicoe and Jan Smuts in Rosebank, it marks a prominent public intervention within the existing urban fabric.  

Its undulating steel façade hugs the corner, creating a visually interesting and permeable urban edge while beckoning patrons to explore the spaces within.  

Open to the public, the gallery uses its prominence to create an interest in art. Art has evolved, and this gallery sets out to include various media, such as music, film, large scale sculpture and the architecture itself.  

The architecture is therefore a sculptural artwork, moulding itself around the art it contains.  

Photo credit: Everard Read and Peter Yuill from TooSocial @Toosocialsa 

Erasmus Castle

The Erasmus Castle, also known as ‘The Haunted House’ or “Die Spookhuis” is a Victorian Art Nouveau mansion now privately owned by Armscor.  

Public tours and cultural gatherings at the premises can be arranged by appointment only. Construction commenced in 1892 and was completed in 1903. It was built in the Stick style and is a combination of the Gothic Revival Pointed (the 1840s) and the Queen Anne (1880-1910) styles.   

It is well worth the effort to view the well-preserved interior, and perhaps encounter the resident ghost, known for leaving lights lit and moaning at night.  

The Chapel of Light  

A small, low-budget project by architects Morne Pienaar and Chris Wilkinson, built at the Vaal University of Technology in Vanderbijl Park, The Chapel appears to make something out of nothing through sheer will.  

The semi-circular tower and cross that reaches upwards creates the Chapel Beacon.   

The beacon instinctively signals the entrance with the tower and roof extensions. The materials and shapes used are modest, but people are intuitively drawn towards the Chapel.  

By creating a series of spatial changes, the visitor experiences different phases of arrival. The arrival path changes your mindset as you make your way to the inner sanctuary.   

Although there are no views to the outside, the inner sanctuary creates a powerful and peaceful contemplative shelter through inspired contrast with its context.  

 The Big Pineapple

The World’s largest pineapple building, 17 meters tall in Bathurst, South Africa. Although Bathurst is one of the smallest municipalities in South Africa it is possibly one of the most interesting. The area is populated by smallholder farmers.  

The smallholder farmers account for 70% of South Africa’s pineapple production. The Big Pineapple is proof of Bathurst’s sustainable production process.  

On the ground floor of The Big Pineapple is a museum, highlighting its history along with a gift shop selling a variety of pineapple products. The Big Pineapple is open to the public from 9 to 5 daily.  

Even without The Big Pineapple, Bathurst boasts many tourist attractions including but not limited to the Oldest Licensed Pub in South Africa, The Bradshaw’s Mill built by the British Settler, Samuel Bradshaw in 1821, and the Bathurst Toposcope from where you can see the Great Fish River, The Gamtoos Valley floodplain and other spectacular sights.  

Travel has made me realise that no matter how much I think I know, there’s always more to learn. I made the mistake of thinking that being born in South Africa I need to go abroad to learn about the world and see more beautiful places. My partner and I are keen travellers and love to travel abroad as often as we can. We have been fortunate to travel internationally on average twice a year. Our motto has always been “let’s aim to run out of pages in our passports”.    

Every destination you visit leaves its unique memory. When this dreaded pandemic emerged a year ago, we were wondering how we were going to add it to our travel memory bank. Initially, South Africa as a destination was not on our list. South Africa was always one of those destinations we would get to later in life.  

The real truth is we are so fortunate to be blessed with a country that is so diverse in its landscape, its people and its fauna and flora. Our recent travels around South Africa have taught us that our problems are small and our blessings abundant.    

Petro from African Tapestry helped us put together an exciting trip. Without her knowledge and expertise, our trip would not have been as memorable. And memorable it was. We travelled just over 3500kms and witnessed and experienced South Africa at its best.  

Gariep Dam – De Stijl Gariep Hotel  

Did you know, the Gariep Dam is the largest storage reservoir in South Africa? It has a total storage capacity of approximately 5,340,000 mega-litres (5,340 hm3) and a surface area of more than 370 square kilometres when full. The hotel is comfortable and sports the most spectacular views, especially at sunset. The hotel also has lovely distant views of the dam from the swimming pool.   

The next morning after breakfast we headed off to the beautiful town of Prince Albert. En route, we stopped off at one of the most delightful “padstal” gems for some much-needed coffee and homemade treats. Travelling through the Karoo is a magical experience. Its landscape is vast and unique. The Karoo is such a special place – did you know it’s home to the largest variety of succulents on earth? Here you can find the richest desert floras in the world, and 40 per cent of these species are not found anywhere else on earth.   

Prince Albert – Mont D’Or Swartberg Hotel  

What a gem of a place, so nostalgic and truly beautiful. This town positioned snugly at the foot of the beautiful Swartberg Mountain Pass. We took a leisurely drive into the pass and were amazed by the spectacular rock formations and absolute pristine beauty of the surroundings. The Swartberg is regarded as one of the finest exposed folded mountain chains in the world and the northern end of the pass especially shows this off best. Plant life along the pass is particularly interesting as many hundreds of species are found on the Swartberg.  

Prince Albert has many authentic Cape Dutch, Karoo and Victorian buildings, thirteen of which are National Monuments. There are several olive farms and other very large export fruit farms in the area, as well as wine producers, sheep farms and an export mohair trade.    

Mont DÓr Swartberg Hotel is a national monument with over 150 years of history and is situated in the heart of Prince Albert. The rooms are beautiful and spacious. The restaurant serves delicious dinner every night. The facilities at the Swartberg Hotel are top-class. The staff are all helpful and friendly.  

Grootbrak / Great Brak River:  Ilita Lodge  

We left early the next morning and along the way to Groot Brakrivier we visited the Meiringspoort Waterfall in Meiringspoort Gorge. One of the great sites in Meiringspoort is that of the waterfall. About 12 km from De Rust, the waterfall is well hidden in a deep ravine. This spectacular fall with water that streams down a 60 meters’ smooth rock face ends in a 9 meters’ deep rock pool. In 1925, when the then Prince of Wales visited South Africa, a pathway with shallow steps was hewn from the rock face for the Royal visitor.   

Petro advised that we should make a coffee stop in De Rust village – there are a few beautiful quaint coffee shops and galleries. A popular lunch venue in the countryside near Oudtshoorn is the Karusa Winery and Craft Brewery (Situated in the Cango Valley en route to the renowned Cango Caves) – it’s popular so be sure to book a table well in advance. Conveniently situated and close to Karusa is another popular stop called Cango Ostrich Show Farm. Ilita Lodge is a boutique hotel situated on the hills above Grootbrak/Great Brak River, with magnificent ocean views.    

Knysna – Kanonkop House  

From Groot Brakrivier we travelled to Knysna – we took the slow scenic road and spent the day meandering along the Seven Passes Road between George and Knysna, including a stop at the Woodville Big Tree – an 800-year-old enormous Yellowwood Tree and an easy 45-minute circular walk through lush indigenous forest. Our accommodation at the luxurious and world-class Kanonkop House was simply incredible. It’s an award-winning boutique hotel with beautiful distant views of the Knysna Lagoon. Only 7 suites. A swimming pool, sundeck, outdoor lounge, terrace and bar. Massages and beauty treatments are available.   

There is so much to do in this area, for example, you could explore the Wilderness Section of the Garden Route National Park (Conservation Fees apply); scenic back roads (dirt roads but in good condition) through the park along the vlei’s – between Wilderness and Sedgefield; Hike in the forests around Ebb & Flow rest camp – do not miss the hike to the waterfall via the Half-collared and Giant Kingfisher trails including the fun crossing of the river on a hand-pulled pontoon, and wear your costume underneath so that you can take a dip in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall. Hire a canoe from Eden Adventures and paddle the waterways around Ebb & Flow rest camp. Guided kloofing and abseiling with Eden Adventures. Walk on the beautiful beaches at Wilderness, Myoli beach in Sedgefield and at Brenton-On-Sea. Swimming beaches at Buffels Bay & Swartvlei. Explore the villages at Wilderness & Sedgefield, and the boutique shops at the Knysna Waterfront and in Knysna town.   

Be sure to drive up to the look-out point on the Heads above Knysna, the views are spectacular! Various operators offer short boat trips on the Knysna lagoon – boats depart from the Knysna Waterfront. Kayaks to explore the Knysna Lagoon yourself can be hired from the SANParks Thesen Island office.   

Goukamma Nature Reserve near Buffels Bay (entrance fee applies) offers a pristine endless beach and more nature trails. If you decide to make a day trip to Plettenberg Bay: hiking/walking in Robberg Nature Reserve is highly recommended; it has the most pristine and beautiful coastline and a small beach – recommended to visit there at low tide so that you can walk over to the tiny island.  

Montagu – Montagu Country Hotel

We drove onto our next destination Montagu via Heidelberg, the Tradouw Pass and scenic Barrydale. Montagu is known as the ‘mountain mecca’ of the Cape, and is surrounded by the Langeberg mountain range nestled between the Keisie and Kingna Rivers in the western corner of Kannaland, and is famous for her orchards, vineyards, local herbs, rock formations and healing hot mineral springs. Our stay at the Montagu Country Hotel took us down memory lane – it’s a restored original Art Deco hotel, located in the heart of the quaint village of Montagu.   

Paternoster – Abalone House  

We drove via Ashton, Robertson, Worcester, the Huguenot Tunnel, Paarl, Malmesbury, Hopefield, Vredenburg, on to our next destination which was Paternoster. Our accommodation at Abalone House was simply spectacular. It’s a small boutique hotel with lavish bohemian decor situated in a quaint seaside village, within walking distance to the sea. Paternoster is a sought-after tourist destination and is known for lobster and white-washed fishermen’s cottages. The remarkable coastline of jagged cliffs and white boulders makes this one of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast of South Africa. The area is a pillar in the South African commercial fishing industry. The town itself has a lobster factory and a newly erected Kabeljou farm, whilst the local people catch and sell herring, or draw mussels from the rocks. In the greater area are several more commercial activities, including deep-sea fishing, snoek catching, Kabeljou farming, oyster farming, canning of pilchards and mussel farming. The oyster farm in the lagoon of the neighbouring town of Langebaan is currently the largest in South Africa.     

Cederberg – Kagga Kamma  

There is a quote that goes something like this “Travel makes you realize that no matter how much you know, there’s always more to learn”. The route we travelled to Kagga Kamma is a testament to that. Our route took us via Velddrif where we got to see the flamingos on the salt pans and once in Velddrif, we made a small detour to drive down the historic Bokkom Laan next to the Berg River – an experience not to be missed. From there we continued on the R399 to Piketberg, then Porterville and Gouda. You do need to make another small detour to visit the historic Church Street in the village of Tulbagh. Then we continued via Ceres, Prins Alfred Hamlet and then on to the Ceres Karoo.  

For a truly unique and utterly different experience, you do need to visit Kagga Kamma – it’s a place that cannot be described in words. Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve is located in an untouched wilderness area near Ceres, in the Western Cape, renowned for its scenic beauty and dramatic rock formations typical of the Cederberg. The room we stayed in is integrated with the natural rock formations that frame the horizon. It’s rugged yet beautiful, in short, an experience not to be missed.   

Beaufort-West – Lemoenfontein Country House  

After two wonderful weeks away from home, we started our trek back. The last leg of our journey was by no means an anti-climax. We went on to Beaufort West via Touwriver and the N1 and got to stop at the majestic little town of Matjiesfontein. The entire village of Matjiesfontein was preserved as a National Heritage Site in 1975 under the direction of revered hotelier David Rawdon. Now here is an interesting insight: David Rawdon established Rawdon’s Hotel in Nottingham Road in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, the well-known Lanzerac Hotel in Stellenbosch, the Marine Hotel in Hermanus, and the Drostdy Hotel in Graaff-Reinet in the Camdeboo.   

Matjiesfontein was once the centre of the British Empire in South Africa and headquarters for the Cape Command during the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902), which was originally built as a railway connection to the diamond mines, and the small village truly boomed when Scotsman James Douglas Logan opened a refreshment station for passing trains. The clean, healthy air made the spot perfect for a Victorian spa and health resort, and the town is also said to be one of the birthplaces of South African cricket.  

Our stay at Lemoenfontein Country house was truly relaxing and luxurious – this beautiful homestead dates back to 1850. Lemoenfontein is an escape from the world at large, with the beauty that defies description and a peace that invites visitors to return time and again. Built slowly and soundly to the exacting standards and architectural style of the time, the building remains unchanged with characteristic high ceilings, original wooden floors and wide verandas which offer guests a sweeping panoramic view of the Karoo landscape.  

Bloemfontein Rural – De Oudekraal Country Estate  

Set on a working sheep farm surrounded by savannahs, this genteel hotel is 7 km from the N1 freeway and 35 km from museums in Bloemfontein. It’s a 6th generation sheep farm.    

This trip has given us renewed energy and love for this beautiful country. There is still so much opportunity and beauty to explore. It’s time to stop all our negative views and ideas about South Africa and perhaps if we rather looked at this beautiful part of the world with new fresh eyes our language will be filled with more admiration and love.  

“Travel opens your heart, broadens your mind and fills your life with stories to tell.”

Article by Anisa Fielding