The N1 One Stop has become a familiar meeting place for the start of our Traveltime trips. Two combi's from the southern suburbs met the 21-seater coach with the northern suburbs passengers and transferred luggage, prior to setting off for our first stop, the Nuy Valley Guest House, where we would all transfer to our next mode of transport. The tractor and trailer were waiting for us on arrival.

The less intrepid (or was it the more informed) passengers chose to board the "bakkie" (four inside and three outside with the food & drinks). Irma sat at the rear with Carol & Wayne.

The rocky terrain and the relentless beating sun soon took it's toll and the enthusiasm waned. We crossed the same river at least eight times. The question "How much further?" was frequently asked - the response came from the driver "Net om die hoek" ("Just around the next corner"!!). Then we encountered a cool breeze, and the "kloof hut" was, in fact,  just around the next bend!

Theresa decided that she had had enough of the tractor / trailer and walked across the river to arrive at the hut before us. The hut is currently being rebuilt after recent storm damage. Irma very quickly made the place look like 'home' and the tables were set with food and drinks.

The braai was lit and drinks and hors  d'oeuvres were soon served. (Pâté and fresh bread with homemade jams). This was followed by braaied lamb chops, boerewors, and various salads. Mini milk tarts and coffee ended a great lunch.

There was much discussion about the trip they had just undertaken.  Some of the ladies seemed a bit shell-shocked and preferred to be quiet!  Doreen from the UK and her friend, Ann enjoyed each others' company.  Bridget and Barbi tucked into the lunch.

Ann and Ingrid soon relaxed in spite of the fact that Ann had 'pinched' her arm between two sections of wood and a very nasty bruise soon developed!  Carol, Marie and Gillie had lots to share and there was much discussion as to which vehicle they were going to use on the way back to the Nuy Valley Guest House!

Wayne appreciated the shade of the big 'ol tree and decided coming with Traveltime is preferable to driving madly around the city and winelands!  Dawn and Margot relax over lunch.

Little Pieter allowed Brian to look after "Teddy Beer" for him - a rare privilege as his granny, Irma said!  All too soon we were heading back through the flowing river - in fact on this trip you go through so many river beds, it almost becomes a 'habit'.  There was much singing, joking and laughing on the tractor which made the L.O.N.G. trip back, seem a little shorter.

The sight of Leipzig in the late afternoon was fabulous.  With the sun setting we were ushered to our rooms and there was chance for a quick shower before we enjoyed a sundowner near the vineyards.  What an excellent way to end our first day in the Nuy Valley!

The old slave bell overshadows the neatly arranged chairs for our sundowner. Elsabe of Leipzig organizing the drinks, whilst Pieter Conradie decided to drop in to see if "his people" where OK.

The dinner table was ready and waiting for us. After the lunchtime braai, a light meal was served.

Our beds soon beckoned and we retired for a welcome rest and dreams of what was in store tomorrow.