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02 September 2018

Cape Town - Zeitz Museum


Zeitz Museum Cape Town

The Zeitz Mocaa museum in the Silo District of the V&A Waterfront is a must for both architectural feats, history and art.

Art Work Zeitz Museum Cape Town

"The museum is housed in an important historical landmark—the old grain silo at the V&A Waterfront. The silos were built in 1921, and for the better part of a century, they were the industrial heart of the harbour area. They were also the tallest buildings in Africa for a long time. The original structure was comprised of 56 storage silos and an adjacent elevator building, and was made a heritage site. The architects working on the museum were tasked with designing a building that would pay homage to this important historical landmark, leaving the outside largely as it was. British designer Thomas Heatherwick told The Architectural Digest that his team “wondered how we could make a compelling innard, instead of the outside being the memorable space”.
The interior of the building is indeed astounding. It is carved out in the shape of an enlarged grain of corn (based on an actual kernel found before construction began). The result is a series of curved concrete lines, with light pouring in through the cylindrical silo structures, giving visitors a cross-section view of the inner workings of the old industrial structure".

Zeitz Museum Cape Town

"Waterfront has long been seeking a use for the historic building. They wanted something that would honour the past, and create an accessible space for all South Africans. The German businessman, Jochen Zeitz, was looking for a museum to house his collection of African contemporary art, and the two visions aligned to create a unique partnership—Zeitz’s collection now forms part of the museum’s collection, and he also funded the project"



Zeitz Museum Cape Town



© Judelle Drake


For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa - Monks Cowl Hiking - Drakensberg



Sterkspruit Falls, Monks Cowl, Central Drakensberg


Hiking in South Africa is a national pastime!
With so many beautiful areas to hike in, one is spoiled for choice.

We recently visited Central Drakensberg and the area in Monks Cowl, Maloto Drakensberg Park, offers beautiful hikes and stunning scenery.

We only did the short hike to Sterkspruit Falls but there are many longer hikes available

Sterkspruit Falls: This moderate walk starts at the Monks Cowl entrance . Take the well marked path down to the falls. 1 to 2 hours.
  
Hike to Sterkspriut Falls

Round Trip to Sterkspruit Falls, onto Nandies Falls and Back to the Entrance. 3 to 4 hours.  Take the path to Sterkspruit falls. Before the falls turn up the river and follow the signs to Nandi's Falls. Spend some time at the rock pools on the way.








The Sphinx (1700m)  and onto  Breakfast stream back via Kirtland’s Pass.  Moderate to Strenuous. + 6hours. This oft walked path takes you on to the top of the Little Berg ( Breakfast Stream) . If you like you can then go on to Blind Mans corner and the contour path. However unless you want to access the contour path for further hikes there is no point in going all the way to the contour path and a preferred  option would be to turn off right  before Blind Mans Corner (2100m) and return via Kirtland’s Pass. This less  used path offers a real wilderness experience winding down through a secluded valley.

For Birders, the Hlathikulu Forest Hike is recommended - 7.5km Circular Route.  The name means tall tress in Zulu and there are mostly yellowwood  trees in this area. Yellowwodd is much prized and is used extensively in furniture making.




Water is safe to drink - watch out for baboons and ensure that you have registered at the gate where one also signs out. Safety always must come first in the mountains!












Hike to Sterkspruit Falls, Monks Cowl, Central Drakensberg



© Judelle Drake


For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa
www.bradclin.com

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01 September 2018

South Africa - Castleburn - Southern Drakensberg



Castleburn Resort

Castleburn is a tranquil retreat with stunning vistas, easy hiking trails and trout fishing for the enthusiasts!
Controlled "Burn" - Castleburn

The name was formed by the beautiful Garden Castle mountain that towers above the property and "burn" - a Scottish name for a small stream. The stream that feeds into the lake is called Madingofani - meaning unknown!
In 1835 a Captain Gardiner explored the Southern Drakensberg and he noted that the huge mountain reminded him of Edinburgh Castle. 




He named this mountain Giants Castle. In 1865 the surveyor  general of Natal, Peter Sutherland renamed this sandstone mountain " Garden Castle" in memory of his mother. The name Giants Castle was transferred to a peak in Central Drakensberg. 
Castleburn

The resort is very beautiful and the smaller lakes are stocked with wild trout every 2 weeks. The large lake gets stocked once per annum and there are thousands of trout in this one. Catch and release only! The smaller dams allow 5 trout to be caught for own use.
For keen hikers the nearby trails (go to Parks Board in Drak Gardens) are a must.
The Rhino covers approx 18 km and is extreme.
The Three Pools is approx 9km leads to 3 pools and Champagne Pool.

Hidden Valley is ideal for those interested in geology - at 18km an early start is recommended.
Sleeping Beauty cave is about 8km with the first part being easy with the last section being steep with wooden constructed steps.

River Walk - Castleburn








For those interested in history, visit the Himeville Museum. Built in 1900 as a fort it housed prisoners until 1972. It was declared a National Monument in 1978.
For those interested in horse riding, Khotso Horse Trails cater for both nervous beginners or experienced riders.







Bird Life - Castleburn


© Judelle Drake


For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa
www.bradclin.com

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South Africa - Sani Pass - Drakensberg



Sani Pass - South Africa
Sani Pass is the mother of all South African mountain passes. Statistically and in every sense, it out distances, out climbs, and out performs all it's competitors with consummate ease to have become the most iconic gravel pass in SA.
Situated between KZN and Lesotho the pass was built circa 1950 and remains a challenging drive in 4x4 vehicles with all the drama, scenery, bad weather and treacherous conditions expected of a pass with a summit altitude of 2876m ASL. That equates to 9400 feet and at 10,000 feet aircraft need pressurised cabins!



We have all heard of the "Highest Pub in Africa" Located at 2873m the only way to reach this summit is by 4x4 vehicle. This is the only road linking Kwazulu - Natal, South Africa with Lesotho and it is not for the feint-hearted. Remember your passport!
The views are stunningly beautiful and our driver welcomed us to his " office"




I am not entirely sure that I could have survived 10 yrs of driving this road every day in many changing conditions - snow, rain, clouds and slippery conditions. We were lucky with good weather.
The South African border post is 8 km from the Lesotho post and this section is truly bone shattering!  The switch- backs are tight and the road is more rock than soil.
Eventually after about 2.5 hrs we reach the chilly summit where a notice advises to reverse into the parking and hang on to your doors! 


The road in Lesotho is tarred ( apparently by Chinese) - what a relief! We saw the supply shop where a local was trying to load his horse with a 80 kg bag of meal. The horse was having nothing to do with this and kept jumping and kicking. On our way back we saw the same guy walking his horse with the huge stack over its back.




Approx 7 kms from the summit we visited a local Basotho village. Small, round and very dark inside. The only tiny door faces north to allow sunshine and light in. There are no windows. The shepherds bring their sheep to the high ground for grazing during the summer months. Their shelters are built each year and then demolished, leaving only the low walls remaining. 


The "people of the  blanket" is well associated with these hardy folk of Lesotho although the womenfolk were wearing Western clothing with smaller blankets as skirts.
Lesotho is a very mountainous country and the population  is about 2 million. Still run by a king it is also known as the Kingdom of Lesotho. Locals have to receive permission for building as the land is all owned by the king.
We tasted some very delicious bread baked in a small round pot over the fire in the hut. The smell of the beer was enough...!
Lunch was at the highest pub in Africa and served with a better Lesotho beer.
There is accommodation here if you are willing to brave the icy wind.
On the way down we saw a taxi full of folk from Lesotho - going shopping in Underberg maybe. It makes us realise how we live with every convenience just a short walk down the road. 


Shepherds were herding a flock of sheep down the mountain. They have to wait at the South African border post for clearance before proceeding further.
An old man was walking uphill carrying wood. Apparently he does this every day to sell to the villagers in exchange for booze or money. He tried to block our passage, hoping to get money in exchange for a photo.
All in all an interesting day, albeit very long and tiring! 

The Sani Pass starts at 1544m and rises 1332 vertical meters to summit at 2876m. This altitude gain is almost 300 meters more than its nearest competitor - the Naude's Nek Pass in the Eastern Cape. The Sani's average gradient is only 1:20, thanks to the long easy gradient section in the foothills of the Drakensberg, but certain sections are as steep as 1:4 and it is here that most drivers come unstuck when the going gets slippery. The large number of car wrecks down the ravines bear mute testimony to the dangers.
Preparations are underway for tarring the pass!

On 26th October, 1948, Godfrey Edmonds (an ex RAF Spitfire pilot) was the first person to ever drive the pass in a vehicle. This was before the road was built. It took him five and a half hours to reach the summit and he was assisted by a team of Basothos with mules, ropes and other equipment. In those days, this achievement was akin to climbing Everest. It was a remarkable and led in no uncertain terms to the approval of the road construction. 


There is no official record of which vehicle he used, but I would imagine it would probably have been an open top Willys Jeep. 

Whilst tarring the road will open it up for more traffic between South Africa and Lesotho, the pas may lose some of its charm. Who knows?


Sani Pass South Africa


© Judelle Drake


For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa
www.bradclin.com

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22 July 2018

Cape Town - V & A Waterfront

Clock Tower V&A Waterfront, Cape Town








The V&A Waterfront in Cape Town is a favourite amongsth both locals and the many tourists who visit our shores. Bustling from morning to night, there is always something to see, something to eat, something to buy!



Shops abound in the V&A - from local artists and artisans, to the well known international brands. Success stories include the likes of Uli Kleinferchner, an Austrian born artist and designer who first began trading in the V&A 25 years ago!







To get the best out of your experience, perhaps do either a Guided Historical Walking Tour (from Chavonnes Battery Museum) or take a Self-Guided walking Tour starting near Ferrymans Tavern.

 

The Silo District has evolved from a disused silo, teeming with stray cats into an incredible space with stunning architecture and a vibrant atmosphere. The modern Zeitz Mocaa offers 21st century art from Africa and the area abounds with many designers and artists as well us interesting places to grab a craft beer, a bite to eat or a gourmet meal.




Buskers keep everybody entertained and happy and the talent varies from music to dance, to magic and mime. Or these crazy skipping guys!The V&A is not a sterile place - it hums with life, the sound of music, laughter, the occassional seagull looking for scraps, a lazy grunt from a seal or the blast of a ships' horn.



For those seeking something different, take a tour of the Shimansky Diamond Museum - hear stories from the past and perhaps even buy a signature creation for somebody special!

The Two Oceans aquarium is open 365 days a year - many species to see from both the Indian and Atlantic oceans. Perhaps diving with the sharks would make a lasting memory?




For a 360 Degree "Birds Eye View" there is nothing better than taking a spin on the Cape Wheel. For the honeymooners, book the private gondola!








Food plays a major role in the V&A and the choice is yours to spend as much or as little as you wish!
There are drinking holes such as the long-established Mitchells Brewery, Ferryman's, the ever popular Quay 4 or Den Anker for Belgium beer or the upmarket Bascule Bar at the Cape Grace.
 Many others, too numerous to mention.



 The Red Bus tours are truly a must do with many routes to choose from as well as a Harbour cruise. Sunset cruises abound by various operators and are extremely popular.

There are many activities for children - Scratch Patch, Jolly Roger, Hamleys Train, play areas and movie theatres.
 
Silo at Night - V&A Waterfront




 An truly MUST VISIT destination is the Mother City, Cape Town!

© Judelle Drake

                      http://www.flickr.com/photos/bradclinphotography

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa
www.bradclin.com

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02 July 2018

Spain - Ibiza calls..

Eivissa - Looking down from Dalt Vila, Ibiza

Ibiza is known worldwide as a "Party Island" yet there is more depth to this small dot in the Med than just partying! There are beautiful beaches to enjoy plus one can soak up the culture and traditions of the of the islanders. Our 1st introduction to Spanish life on Ibiza was a festival - Eivissa Medieval. This celebrates the declaration of Dalt Vila, the upper town of Eivissa being declared as a World Heritage site in 1999.
The Phoenicians founded Eivissa in the mid 7th Century BC - that really is way back when.
Dalt Vila, the Upper Town, is the oldest part of Eivissa and proudly enjoys its UNESCO World Heritage fame.

Surrounded by many locals out to enjoy their day, we explored  the numerous stalls as well as gazing at the views of the town from the high ramparts of the city. There are loads of steps to climb but it is well worth the effort, to take in the surroundings and the beautiful coastline.


Sangria was available right next to the homemade pastries made by the nuns. The nuns were very happy and full of smiles. Lovely to see.We tried their apple tart and skipped the sangria at the tiny bar next door! Just too early!

 The display by the flag bearing guys was lovely to watch. Despite the wind they caught their twirling flags every time. This Festival is held every year during the 2nd week-end of May. Look out for vendors is traditional dress.






So many tasty treats to tempt us plus "The Most Enormous" chocolate doughnut I have even seen! I resisted. It was a tough decision. Do I regret it? YES! We only live once and won't be here next year to sample the delights. Not quite sure why the stall holder had the loo roll right next to the doughnuts! Perhaps it was best that I restrained myself?








One of the stalls was "braaing" a huge selection of meat - it took 2 chaps to keep swivelling the huge grid in circles. They looked exhausted already and the meat was not yet even sizzling. Another stall had a pig on a spit. And all the delicious, sweet candies? OH, just heaven!

Wander, eat, drink and think of all the history that has gone before.

Our trip up north to Portinaxt really brought home the fact that Ibiza is mainly tourist driven. The hills are covered in trees, there is not much evidence of agriculture and the beaches are surrounded by hotels and apartment blocks. The beaches here are sort of dirty brown - no white sand. The beach chairs stood all forlorn, mainly due to a biting wind after an overnight thunderstorm and some rain.

Cala Xarraca Ibiza

The famous beach of Cala Xarraca where "South Pacific" was filmed was a great disappointment. There are far better beaches elsewhere on the island. Everybody turns up here with their cameras yet the most interesting feature was a house with massive pots (empty) scattered around the slopes of the garden. Heaven help the person who could decide to move them to a different spot.The coastline here is very rocky with the beaches scattered in tiny coves.

Cala Tarida, Ibiza


The West Coast
What can I say? Stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches and narrow roads! Our first stop was down many steps to the tranquil beach Cala Tarida. This is a sandy beach, great for swimming and the bonus is that it has an Aquabus Stop.






Cala Moli is very rocky and quiet yet there is a restaurant. Not great for swimming.

Cala Vadella Ibiza

Cala Vedella is stunningly beautiful from above as you slowly transverse the winding road. Take a stop and a stroll to view the very fancy yachts moored down below. Gaze silently at the beauty surrounding you before you get very frustrated at the parking issue down below! Parking is a problem at all the best beaches in Ibiza. With such expensive boats in the bay it looks like an expensive haven!

Cala d'Hort - Sitting on large boulders is not my idea of fun and neither was the narrow road down to the "beach"


Torre de Ses Portes, Ibiza

Our last stop for the day was lunch at Ses Salinas. This is a long beach and very vibey. We loved the decadent, double deck sunbeds. Great for sun-tanning and people watching.

We took a long walk to the tower Torre de Ses Portes. We could see Dalt Vila in Eivissa from here, albeit far away. This tower was built to strengthen the defences against pirates in the 16th Century. Now offering spectacular views of the Islets of Freus and the island of Formentera, the area has low cliffs, small coves, turquoise waters, and the ever-present boat sheds.
The stone used to build Dalt Vila was quarried from here, hence a very rocky walk if one does not stick to the road..

Today it was all about feeling jealous. Santa Eularia has THE most decadent collection of yachts. We were brought to a halt to stare while one was being moved by remote control - quite something to witness - one wrong press of that button would become a very expensive problem!


The boardwalk in this town (3rd largest in Ibiza)  is long and offers great views. The beach was filled with sun-worshippers and the hundreds of restaurants make it impossible to choose. One could stay here for 2 weeks and not get to try all the restaurants. They do appear to cater mainly for the UK visitors. However, it is a great spot for some R&R without having to move away from the town.



 



Our nest stop was Es Canar - another long beach and also home to the famous Hippy Market (Wednesdays). Whether all stall holders are still hippies is debatable but it is a fun market and draws huge crowds. It is not very well signposted and the walk from the beach was a long way but worth the effort just to see what all the fuss is about!

This all started in the 60's when artists, painters, designers flocked to Ibiza to experience the freedom of expression on the island! Heavenly.




Cala Bassa, Ibiza
     

Cala Bassa is a gorgeous beach (300 m long, 30 m wide) on the west Coast, With interesting rock formations, a ferry stop, loads of decadent beach loungers, restaurants and ancient Sabina trees, it is well worth a visit.

Sabina trees used to be found all over the forests of Ibiza yet today there are so few left that they are now a protected species. A tree can grow to be 1000 years old and take 40 years to mature. 


 


Punta Galera offers stunning views of the coast yet it is not for the feint-hearted as the paths are very high up. A dive boat was anchored far below - a beautiful spot. Sun-worshippers lay on the rocks. Ideal for those who wish to be away from the madding crowd and are fit enough to clamber down to the rock platforms and sea below!





San Antoni was not our favourite although it is the 2nd largest town in Ibiza. The views from across the bay were pretty however and had the luxury of a ferry stop. There were 2 partially completed buildings here that looked abandoned and a huge complex that was tightly shut. Most odd. The Reggae beach was noisy with music blaring - however, the name and graffiti says it all!


All in all, a great island in the Mediterranean and well worth a visit.


Beautiful West Coast Ibiza




© Judelle Drake


               For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa
                                     www.bradclin.com

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01 July 2018

South Africa - Franschhoek Motor Museum




At a loss as to what to do on a rainy day in Cape Town?

The Franschhoek Motor Museum is ideal at any time but great on a rainy day even though one does have to walk outside as there are 4 huge showrooms.

Situated on the beautiful L'Ormarins Wine Estate, this amazing automobile collection spans 100 years of motoring history. The vehicles are all in immaculate condition and each has information available.



The range is vast and includes Antique (built before December 1904), Veteran (1905 - 1918), Vintage (1919 - 1930) Post Vintage (1931 - 1945) Post 1945 (1946 - 1960) and Post 1960

Memorabilia can be spotted on the walls - it's a history museum with a twist.


Started originally in Heidelberg by Dr. Anton Rupert, the collection was moved to Franschhoek by his son, Johann Rupert who added and enhanced this superb, world class, mind-blowing spectacle of well-preserved automobiles.

Ranging from Ferrari  F-40, F 50 and the Ferrari Enzo, you can also see the McLaren F1 that set a record in 1998 as the fastest road car in the world. And all the makes in between.....








Please note that viewing is by appointment only



Phone: +27 (0)21 874 9002
Fax: +27 (0)21 874 9100
Email: fmm@fmm.co.za
The Franschhoek Motor Museum P.O.Box 435, Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa

© Judelle Drake
                        http://www.flickr.com/photos/bradclinphotography

For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa



23 June 2018

Mallorca - Tram & Train Sollor & Port of Soller in Pictures


Soller and Port of Soller - a must visit #mallorca



Soller - Bright chairs - # mallorca

Add caption

Soller Mallorca


The tram to Port of Soller Mallorca


Port of Soller - magnificent boats! Mallorca


Port of Soller Mallorca


Port of Soller - Mallorca

Tram lines Soller to Port of Soller

Port of Soller Mallorca


Bunyola on the Train ride Soller to Palma Mallorca

Train ride Soller to Palma Mallorca
  
Soller station Mallorca

Soller Mallorca

Soller Mallorca

A coffee and milktart stop on Soller - Mallorca

Train tracks through Soller Mallorca



Butcher Soller Mallorca


Through the mountains Soller to Palma - Mallorca

TRain ride Soller to Palma Mallorca

Nearly in Palma - Train Ride Soller to Palma Mallorca

Port of Soller Mallorca

Port of Soller Mallorca

Port of Soller Mallorca

Beautifiul beach Port of Soller Mallorca

Tram arriving in Port of Soller Mallorca

Beach at Port of Soller Mallorca








© Judelle Drake

                    http://www.flickr.com/photos/bradclinphotography

               For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa
                                    www.bradclin.com

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