South Africa Wed 11 Nov '09

South Africa Wed 11 Nov '09
Much excitement, we see a Spotted Eagle Owl in the tree outside the Guest House. At least two of our group are keen bird enthusiasts. This is a big owl.
We leave this area for long drive in the bus through spectacular mountain scenery to Oudtshoorn. On the way, we have a break at Karoo Botanical Gardens near Worcester, including a short walk up the hillside. More great scenery and millions of ants moving fluffy seedpods into their nest.
The next stop at Rooiberg Winery was just for coffee and scrumptious pecan pie and ice cream.
Then on to Barrydale in Little Karoo Valley for lunch - toasted bacon and banana sandwich - it was good, you should try it. Let me know if you do.
More travelling takes us to De Poort Guest House near Oudtshoorn in the centre of South Africa's traditional ostrich farming industry.
The accomodation is a 2 storey black, cream and brick set of buildings with roof structures made with poles bolted together and covered with thatch. Real character outside and in (but not sure about the dead zebra draped over the internal balcony bannister)
Took a one hour hike on my own up a nearby hill, along the brow and down the other side. A beautiful place. Cactii and short bushes all shapes and sizes, multi-coloured rocks and stones.
Evening meal is ostrich steak, perfectly cooked by Rita the hostess. (her husband is called Leon so they called their daughter Leorita)
I love this place.
Got to go now. All the Best,
John