Can’t believe it is already Saturday. When we got up this morning it was bright and sunny, so we figured we could take the morning to go up Table Mountain. Alas – by 8 AM we were again looking at a cloudy sky, so went back to our original plans for the day. This involved driving out to Stellenbosch via Franchhoek to see the Huguenot Monument. Our first quick stop was at the Drakenstein Prison where Mandela was released from. After this quick stop we drove on to Franchhoek where we admired not only the Huguenot, but also the large display of roses and more important King Protea. These are an amazing flower which can be up to 30 cm in breadth and are quite startling to see. There was also a sizable collection of Bird of Paradise Flowers. While in Franchhoek we took the opportunity to wander around this delightful town, do a bit of sight seeing and even – for some – a bit of shopping.
Around 11 we were headed back on the road to Stellenbosch. Here we spent close to an hour at the Village Museum – the Dorp Museum – which is actually 4 different houses that have survived the many fires of Stellenbosch, and represent the home of different eras and social class. We all agreed that it was a very interesting and unique museum.
After that we were once again indulged in a local restaurant – the Nolkskombuis Restaurant which served a three course dinner with 3 choices of starters, four main dishes and the dessert of the day. Once again – we left feeling very satisfied/
From our lunch stop we headed to the Seidelberg Wine Estates where we were treated to a tour of the winery, and a wine tasting – six varieties – 2 white, 1 blush and 3 red. We all enjoyed the opportunity to enjoy the varieties, and it was evident how our tastes differ. Some really enjoyed the whites while others much preferred the reds.
We also were treated to a very profound toast – it went as follows:
I wish I could drink as a Lady
One or two at the most
Three, I’m under the table
Four, I’m under the host. (toast deliverer to remain anonymous)
Did I mention that the sky had cleared to a brilliant blue, and the wind was at a minimum! This not only added to our enjoyment of the day, but also enabled us to take our much delayed trip on the tram up Table Mountain. What an experience that was. The scene – was to say the least – breathtaking. As you walked around Table Mountain you were able to view the entire cape area and well beyond. We saw Robben Island – our journey for tomorrow, and all the places we have visited so far around Cape Town. It was truly wonderful, but too soon we had to head back as the cable cars stop at 7 PM.
Back in town – we received final instructions for Sunday – then set off for an evening of free time. Some took in a pasta dinner, other pizza, some stayed in the hotel for supper, and others went shopping.