For those of you who have read a few of my blogs already, you have a pretty good idea of who I am and what I love to do – and that is to travel and explore new places. Coming from a relatively small city in SA, it’s no surprise then that the lure of exotic islands and old European cities is what keeps my interest in travel alive. I have to remind myself though, that is not only the adventure of going on a long haul flight and waking up in a new country that excites me, but rather just a break from the daily grind and clearing my mind of all the pressures of life and really just being present in that moment. This can be as fulfilling (and certainly cheaper) than an overseas trip, which for most people, can only happen a few times in your life. Why not explore your own backyard then… Well this is something which my hubby and I do quite often, and I have to say, we have had some of our best holidays on a short two or three night road-trip.
A particular trip of ours has stood out as an all time favorite. We did a three day road-trip from East London through small Eastern Cape towns and down into the Western Cape. All I can say is that I am sorry I had not done this before!
The trip was planned within a morning, and accommodation booked in the towns we wanted to see a little more of.
Our trip started from our home town, East London, and we took a slow drive to Graaf-Reinet, a beautiful Eastern Cape Town established in 1786. Arriving in time for lunch at the lovely Drostdy Hotel in the town centre. I really could not believe I had not been to this gorgeous Karoo town before. From the moment we arrived at the hotel, we were greeted with great hospitality and the five star service continued throughout our stay. We ate from a lovely charcuterie platter served to us and we sat in front of a warm fireplace and enjoyed a delicious bottle of wine from their vast wine cellar collection. I am no “fundi” on wines, but I do know a good bottle of Chardy, and their wines did not disappoint. They stock a huge selection of red and whites from the Cape Winelands. After a lazy lunch, we were shown to our suite. All the rooms are in blocks resembling an 1820 settlers village, lined along cobbled streets with beautiful gardens. All the doors are painted with vibrant colors. The Suites are classic styles but with all the modern amenities and touches to make it a luxury country style Hotel. I loved walking around the grounds of the hotel, discovering pretty gardens and swimming pool which we sat at while watching the sun set.
That evening we were treated to a great meal at the Camdeboo Restaurant. Here you get to sample traditional foods and this was the first time I tried red-meat sushi. Definitely an interesting and complicated twist for the palate but enjoyable.
After a lovely breakfast in the warm spring sun, we took off for the next town through the Karoo – and yes, it really does feel like miles and miles of nothing. The landscape is very dry and you see empty dams and the odd sheep here and there. I think this arid landscape is why I have never been drawn on a trip to these parts. I battled to get any cell reception, and our music playlist was exhausted within two hours. I found myself in this time though, just sitting back and relaxing, and cleared my head of any expectation going forward. I wanted to enjoy this alone time with my man and be grateful for our many wonderful years we’ve been together.
Soon we found ourselves in different terrain, and driving between the most exquisite copper mountains, with a beautiful river running next to the road. All of a sudden my interest was piqued again – how did I not know of this amazing place yet! This pass is called Merringspoort pass and is on the R341 heading towards Prince Albert – our next destination.
Gin Time
Price Albert Country Stay 
A trip down memory lane
Prince Albert is a gorgeous, historical old town, filled with quaint B&B’s and restaurants, alongside interesting museums and art galleries. We checked in to the quaintest B&B, The Prince Albert Country Stay behind to the Price Albert Country store. This place really felt like I had stepped back in time – memories of my gran’s backyard, filled with beautiful wild flowerbeds and fruit trees and all rooms leading out onto this wonderful setting. Our room, complete with an inviting lounge area and a wood-burning fire was so enticing, but we decided to go and explore the town before dinner. We found ourselves at the Green Prince Gin Bar which was the perfect place for sun-downers. Our lovely host suggested a tiny restaurant, called The Karoo Kombuis (rated #1 restaurant in Prince Albert on Trip Advisor), around the corner from our B&B and we were treated to the most delicious boerekos, a menu which apparently hasn’t changed in nearly twenty years. We were served by the most flambouyant hostess who just added to the wonderful sense of theatrics created in this lovely electic eatery. Not one to be missed.
We left Prince Albert the next morning and drove via the Outeniqua Pass which is a destination on its own. Driving over these majestic mountains, and catching glimpses of the ocean in the distance as you near the town of George is really a breathtaking site.
After a brief bit of shopping in Mossel Bay, we headed into Plettenberg Bay for our final night. Here we stayed at The Bungalow which is a delightful Boutique Hotel on the stretch of beach to the left of The Beacon Isle Hotel. We did find the accommodation modern, but a tad too small. The sound of the ocean lulling us to sleep that night however did make up for the lack of space. After a lovely walk on the beach the next day, we headed back home, rested and ready for challenges of daily life.
The Bungalow, Plettenberg Bay
I hope you enjoyed following my travel journey and please share your comments, if any, below
xx B
THE MOY LIFE 