The planning of this tour started in July 2014 with Pat approaching us to arrange a ‘private family’ tour for September 2015. The wheels of motion went into action and accommodation was secured.
To actually meet the family and share 5 days with them’ was a special privilege for me. I had not previously done an extended tour with children but little Mia and Zoe warmed us all with their bubbling personalities and I have special memories in my heart of instances that we all shared.
One of the highlight as far as I’m concerned, was being able to share the West Coast National Park on the first day. Never before has this National Park appeared so absolutely beautiful. The vista of flowers almost made your eyes sore with beauty. (if that is possible)
Another highlight was the evening at Draaihoek Lodge where we all watched the sun set and Curt took photographs of us all ‘holding-the-sun’ – A super addition at the end of the day.
Our time at the De Lande Farm was special. We all remember the outstanding meals that Amanda cooks each evening (especially the roast potatoes) – somehow the huge bowl is emptied very quickly.
Generally the hospitality one receives in small towns in South Africa is outstanding. All staff really go the extra mile to ensure that everyone is happy with everything.
The flowers at Papkuilsfontein were also outstanding – proof of this is that on the Sunday we visited, the queue of people wanting to get maps to go into the flower reserve stretched out of the door.
Of course, lunch at Papkuilsfontein is always a special affair. Today most had a delicious bowl of hot, piping soup. All eyes were on the decadent cakes on display but everyone felt they just could not manage these after lunch.
On Monday however, when two of our ladies decided they just had to have a slice of chocolate mousse cake and cheese cake, the staff at the farm were prepared to go the extra mile for us and were prepared to bring these slices of cake from Papkuilsfontein to De Lande
Memories are special and I believe everyone on this private family tour have gone back to their homes with memories of quality time spent with each other.
My words on arrival at the De Lande Farm:
“Forget the familiar streets of Sandton and Germany and allow the farm of De Lande to worm it’s way into your hearts”
I was thrilled to hear from Kate that this was very true and that it had, in fact, happened to her!