S A Grand - Paarl

Our last day at De Kleinjne Bos Country House. It was a good stay and I loved looking out on the mountains when we opened the windows in the morning, but I would have loved a few things to be different.

Bain's Pass

I would have loved if the linen was changed just once during our stay and it felt like you were living in someones home when you come out of the room and straight onto the dining room. Could have done with somewhere comfy to sit and relax at times as it was a fairly long stay doing B & B accommodation. Would have loved to see more smiles from the owner, but was good other than that.

Limietberge

Today we are doing the long route home with our first visit to Wellington and Ceres. We are so glad we did this because Bain's Pass is awesome viewing. with lovely history to it.

It was built by famous road maker Andrew Geddes Bains between 1849 - 1853. This is a remarkable accomplishment if you take into account that it is 25 km of road winding through the Limietberge where rock had to be blasted at some sections and supports of up to 20m high had to be built to support the road. Spectacular, especially with the mist hanging over the mountains.

Through Ceres and Touws River and then we will see where our noses take us.

Along the N1 we passed the Vespa Club gunning their

A Vespa On His Way - Shame

way along the highway. I just had to get a photo as we passed. Shame. Looks like loads of fun

Finally we landed up crossing the Orange River and in

Orange River

Philippolis, the oldest settlement in the Free State.

We booked out accommodation on line while in the car. Isn't technology great.

When we arrived at the "Anker", we knocked but there was no reply. All the doors were standing open and no one was home. Here people don't lock their doors and the old folk

The Oceanos's Port Hole

and joggers were still out on the streets after seven when all the is in darkness.

Mr. Andrews joined us on the stoep while we were enjoying our wine, cheese and biscuits and told us some interesting details about his life.

Mr. Andrews is an ex Navy man and was part of the rescue mission of the Oceanos that sunk on 4th August 1991. In our bathroom we have one of the port holes that he collected during this rescue.

Richard and I chatted until late.  There is no TV and is good for conversation to do this. Had a super day seeing the sights and a super evening enjoying each others company.

Today was a good day.