Lockdown 390

Lockdown Day 390 - 20 April 2021

This morning we decided the sunny morning was perfect for driving to the little town of Franschhoek. The 75minute drive took us through parts of the farmlands of the Overberg, over the dam wall of the Theewaterskloof dam and through the picturesque Franschhoek pass.

Theewaterskloof is currently at 74. 7% of its 480 million cubic metres and driving along its surface area of just over 5000ha is just an impressive sight. With little to no traffic, we could enjoy the Franschhoek pass with its breathtaking views of its impressive 7km climb to 432m and especially the Franschhoek Valley.

Franschhoek, Afrikaans for 'French Corner', so named because it where most French Huguenots settled to build a life in the Cape in the late 1600's.

Sharing this heritage with the original family farms from both sides of my family still very much intact, it always feels like I can stay forever. Walking down the street reconnected me to the soil where my predecessors also walked.

We parked the car in front of Terbodore Café in Huguenot street. Their coffee roastery opened in 2004 and was expanded in 2011, sporting a café and online shopping with countrywide delivery. Needless to say, we started off with a little Terbodore inspiration.

The Great Dane blend of the day was accompanied by the now famous 'dog biscuit' cookie. Promising to return for an after lunch cuppa, we strolled down Huguenot Street, stopping along the way to appreciate the architecture and view all the arts and crafts on offer.

Lunch at Le Petit Manoir consisted of smoked brisket and veggie spring rolls and butter chicken, plated and presented with ultra-modern and contemporary crockery.

We stopped in at Terbodore for a last coffee before it was time to leave. Thank you Gavin for your excellent service and sense of humour!

We then took a quick drive past all the family farms before heading home. Franschhoek really looks and feels like a little piece of France with a touch of Swiss mountain air in this extra special champagne valley of the fairest Cape.

Back home, watching a most spectacular sunset, I silently thank our Creator for the angels He sends into our space, both the human and the celestial type.

#Gbwy

#Ggt