Cape Town & Winelands of the Western Cape

able Mountain is outside my window as we lie at anchor waiting for Immigration or the tugboat to come take us to the Passenger Terminal in Cape Town. . It’s the first time I am seeing this so recognizable landmark without fog and clouds.

View Photos: CLICK HERE

Edmundo and Michael at Boschendal Winery with Simonsberg Mountains as a backdrop near Franschhoek, outside Cape Town

oday, it’s off to the Winelands but by-passing Stellenbosch and going on into a nearby valley at Franschhoek. Vines cover hillsides under blue skies in so many wonderful old vineyards established by French Hugenots centuries ago. Our first stop is at Boschendal Winery set with the Simonsberg Mountains as a striking backdrop, and then past fields of lavender and excellent examples of the ‘Cape Dutch’ architecture in the town. (Hopefully, I’ll get some photos when we drive in the other direction tomorrow.)

Tour guide and old friend Valerio has reservations at a couple of places for lunch, and chooses one up the hill, La Petite Ferme, with wonderful views back over the valley. I choose an impressive Chilled Soup of beetroot, strawberries, and ginger but can’t find it in the recipe book at the front counter to get an idea of the ‘balance’ for ingredients. I’ll just have to recreate by trial and error. Or ask Anne or Pam.

Chilled Beetroot, Strawberry and Ginger Soup

Lavender fields in the Franschhoek Valley, outside Cape Town

Chantal takes a liking to us after a gruff maître d’ sits us ‘inside’! Thanks to her, we enjoy the meal ‘outside’ with the best views, and a breeze.