We got lost. We left Cape Town on the N2 and headed to the Klein Karoo. On the way there we enjoyed the blooming canola fields and were going to take the turnoff to our accommodation at Riversdale. We were meant to be on the R323 on our way to Ladismith, but we found ourself on a long dirt road to nowhere. Not nowhere. That dirt road leads to a T-junction, right for Albertina, left for the unknown. I finally had cell reception and I managed to get hold of our host at our accommodation. “You are very far away, I suggest you go to Albertina, drive back to Riversdale and try again.”
And so, we tried again. I missed the smallest sign for Ladismith and the R323 by blinking or looking at the road, or whatever. It was a huge mistake that cost us a full hour of driving. Thank the lucky stars for Lizelle and Joseph, the owners of The Place that is located on the R323 between Riversdale and the R62. Not quite Ladismith, but close. Joseph met us on the road and directed us to The Place. We arrived after dark, welcomed by the most beautiful sight of the milky way and I hugged Lizelle with relief. The boys and I went straight to bed, laughing about my mistake.
We woke up early on Saturday and stepped outside to explore. The landscape was typical of the Klein Karoo, dry and desolate and littered with fynbos. Walking around, we spotted succulents that look like bums, much to my 4-year-olds delight.
The Place is a guest farm located in a secluded valley, near the R62 in the Klein Karoo. They have two self-catering units and we stayed in the studio that boasted a hammock, plunge pool, wood-burning stove, and kitchenette.
On Saturday afternoon the sun was warm and the boys decided to try out the plunge pool while I started my very first braai. Always the braai eater and never the braaier, I was keen to try my hand at braaing. I didn’t go big. Just some sausage. But it was awesome and I was so proud of myself.
The Place, Klein Karoo
We departed early Sunday morning and made our way to Barrydale via the R62. I have always wanted to go to Diesel & Creme, and finally, my wish came true. What a great place! My boys LOVE cars and this was automobile heaven. It’s a must-visit when in Barrydale. I want to go back to Barrydale, it is high on my list.
Diesel & Creme
This weekend away was about spending time with my boys. The humdrum of everyday life was getting to all of us and we needed some quality time together. To laugh, rest, and explore together. And we found that in the Klein Karoo, even if we did get a little bit lost at first. A big thank you to Lizelle and Joseph at The Place for a wonderful stay.
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