We are back from SOUTH AFRICA
V&S November 2004:
"It was great to discuss alternatives for our holiday - based on when we could travel, what we wanted, and our budget. Then you suggested South Africa - which we had not considered. So, instead of a ranch in America, we went to a ranch in South Africa! Great fun, completely different and a fab introduction to Africa. Lovely accommodation and food, and the people so friendly.
The information provided prior to our holiday was very helpful and it was reassuring to have personal advice always available by phone or e-mail. We particularly appreciated all the pre-arranged, private transfers - one less worry on a first visit.
If we were looking for a criticism it would be that the hotel for the second part of our holiday was not right on the waterfront in Cape Town (but it was close and good value for money). We would have liked more time to appreciate Ant's Hill - a great reason to go back!
Where to next??"
D&J. South Africa February 2005. Cape Town:
We would recommend Cape Cove in Cape Town as a place to stay. It was immaculate and the staff was very helpful with recommendations on restaurants and preferential booking at restaurants.
Grootbos (Private Game Reserve at Hermanus) was not very close to the sea and had a disappointing pool. Staff very helpful and friendly. The accommodation was very comfortable and food excellent. Activities were interesting, but not for everyone. The sea around there is very dangerous, so water sports do not feature. Mountain biking has been discontinued. The main activity is ecology.
Franschhoek Country House Hotel, Cape Winelands. Rooms were comfortable and clean but rather lacking in character. Food at the hotel was ok, but lots of better options in Franschhoek. Franschhoek was fabulous and so much nicer than Stellenbosch area. Wine tasting on horseback - brilliant. Mountain biking - brilliant. La Petite Ferme for lunch - fabulous.
Shellseekers provided all the information we needed about South Africa as a holiday destination.
General - the weather was not brilliant. We did not sleep on the overnight flights so might come back on the day flight next time.
We would recommend Shellseekers to friends.
Thanks!
Kay & John - March 2005. South Africa
My son John and I had a wonderful trip to South Africa. For me, it was a chance to revisit old friends and for John it was his first visit to Africa.
Horizon Horseback Adventures - this working ranch in the Waterberg is a wonderful holiday destination for all ages. Because there are only a few guests (max 8) it feels like a big house party. John had a fantastic time, riding fast into the distance with other young members of the group and Horizon team - I was able to be more sedate and just enjoy gentle rides with the occasional canter. This is somewhere I would choose over and over as a personal holiday destination. We both loved it.
Ant's Hill. This luxury lodge in the Waterberg is privately owned and the hosting is personal and professional in equal measures - the balance is effortlessly achieved. We were joined by my father and his wife, and it was perfect for the span of ages - 18 to 80!! We rode well schooled horses, went on game drives, revelled in the beautiful location, were pampered and delightfully spoiled. I make no apology for recommending both the Ant Lodges to clients - they are truly excellent. John reckoned this was the nearest thing to paradise he could imagine.
