We started off with fresh coffee and devilishly delicious scones at the very welcoming
Next, we ventured down to Succulents and Stones, a small business run by Mandy Kriel. Now, I have a real love and passion for gem stones and crystals (much like how most women feel about shoes or handbags), so I could have gotten lost in the cavernous room displaying hundreds of stones in a variety of forms – raw, polished, ornamental clusters, jewels and jewellery, pendants, lamps and more. However, there was muc
h more to be done including having a browse around in Mandy’s vast selection of succulents and cacti.
I was very pleasantly surprised when we arrived at the charming Fynbos Guest Farm. The entire plot expresses the warmth,
We were then treated to a spectacular picnic under the lavish trees at Hoogwater Farm,
Feeling superbly satisfied, we headed over to Vindoux Guest Farm and Luxury Tree Houses to check in. Their fynbos inspired spa, sumptuous accommodation and breath-taking views make for a rejuvenating and revitalizing experience fit for a queen and ideal for a romantic getaway.
Later, we enjoyed a sunset horse ride in the backdrop of the majestic mountain range with the humble folks of
The most exciting and terrifying part of our tour would have to be the Zipslide experience the following day at Ceres Zipslide Adventures. This is the longest zipslide tour in Africa boasting 8 ziplines in total zig-zagging down the Schurweberg Mountains. It took some work to muster up the courage to go ahead with it and after the first zipline it took me at least five minutes to stop shaking! But from the second zipline onward, I knew what to expect and really got to enjoy not only the adrenaline rush but also the phenomenal views of Ceres. Exhilarating!
Luckily our next stop was at Baba’s Jem because the adrenaline rush had rustled up an appetite of note. Baba is renowned for her peculiar preserves made from the vegetables grown in her very own garden. Apricot and mustard jam, spicy marrow atchar, or carrot chutney may sound strange but they are wonder and a delight to the taste buds. She welcomed us into her quaint kitchen and treated us to her freshly made vetkoek and corn fritters (the best I have ever tasted) to enjoy with her scrumptious preserves.
A guided tour at the Ceres Transport Riders Museum followed, divulging a great and intriguing history of the Ceres Valley. Displaying the likes of evolving transportation, incredible animal life, earthquakes and meteor showers, the museum shares an abundance of information.
Around the bend, the Ceres Bonsai Centre provides a large array of gorgeous bonsai trees, to purchase or hire. Educational workshops are also provided for the precision care of these delicate plants.
As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end… We rounded off our remarkable tour with a tasty lunch at Eden Restaurant & Coffee Shop before heading back to the hustle and bustle of the city.
If you’re looking for a getaway that can entertain all five senses, the Witzenberg Valley is the place to be!