Great Outdoors

LOWVELD ISSUE 76 | SPRING

R30.00 (incl VAT)

LIVING

great outdoors

ALOES IN DECOR | THE PLIGHT OF THE PANGOLIN | PLAN A KIDS PARTY LIKE A PRO STYLISH JEWELS | MUSIC AT MOPANI | MOZAMBIQUE PRIVATE HOME WOWS

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9 771813 621003

TBWA\ Hunt \ Lascaris \ Durban\81860\L

For your nearest TOPS at SPAR store, phone our share call number: 0860 31 3141 or visit www.topsatspar.co.za

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there is no

denying I am a

city girl...

There is no denying I am a city girl born and bred. Accustomed to the big smog, an old hand at navigating traffic jams, adept at balancing on heels while holding 4 cups of coffee and comfortable with high rises blocking the sun.

Then I moved to the Lowveld.

My first question was, ”Where is the Lowveld?”

Nowadays I am more used to gum boots in the garden, open spaces, blue skies and bike rides. Look how far I have come.

How lucky are we to live in this beautiful place. Lowveld Living celebrates with our Great Outdoors Edition. Get outside and enjoy the change in weather.

Explore concerts at Mopani Rest Camp, and the little town of Malelane, learn about the local talents we home in the Lowveld and win fabulous prizes, Enjoy

Sylvia Plath sums up my sentiments perfectly: “I FELT MY LUNGS INFLATE WITH THE ONRUSH OF SCENERY – AIR, MOUNTAINS, TREES, PEOPLE. I THOUGHT, ‘THIS IS WHAT IT IS TO BE HAPPY’.”

EDITOR Nicky Manson, nicky@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | EDITORIAL Nicky Manson, Kim Springorum, Annelle Whyte, Trevor Chrighton, Lianke Naude, Lynn Haken ADVERTISING Audrey Ford Duimelaar audrey@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | DESIGN Creative Union | PROOF READING EditPro PHOTOGRAPHY Africa Photographic Services | EDITORIAL info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | DISTRIBUTION GMF Consulting PRINTING Paarl Media | CONTACT US 076 952 7761 COVER Annie Spratt – unsplash

@lowveldLiving

@lowveldLiving

@lowveldLiving

lowveldlivingmagazine.com

@lowveldLiving

© Copyright 2019 Lowveld Living. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of Lowveld Living Magazine or the publisher. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. All editorial information contained herein is, and remains, the property of Lowveld Living Magazine and/or its writers and/or photographers. Lowveld Living Magazine, its publisher, staff and contractors accept no liability for loss or damage in any form whatsoever arising from information, submissions or opinions expressed in this publication. Public comment and submissions are published at the sole discretion of Lowveld Living Magazine. E&OE.

inside kids

Plan your kid’s party like a pro.

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A musical experience in the Kruger’s Mopani Rest Camp, win a stay at Paradise Falls and explore our backyard in Malelane.

We look at gut health and offer our favourite readers big wins.

We showcase the Lowveld’s talented jewellers.

go

We visit the most relaxing place in SA – Sante Anna in the Cape.

live

Chatting to the director of Eye of the Pangolin and a glimpse into the life of the talented Elise Buitendag.

spaces

A private home in Mozambique wows.

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read

turning pages sharing a bed with his newest star. Or the devilishy handsome Bay Austen whose dreadful flirtations only lead to trouble. And then there is the sought after Stud Farm that is finally up for sale and which everyone wants.

Fabulously fun, deliciously sexy and deviously funny. You will love it.

Jonathan Ball Publishers.

THE COUNTRY SET by Fiona Walker: A fabulous romp set in the English countryside following the tightknit community of friends and foes living there. Discover the Saddlebags, a bunch of middle-aged women, whose daily horse rides, reveal the latest village gossip. The sad musical director who still longs for his dead wife while

OF MOUNTAINS AND MIRACLES by Ricky Pott: From our very own Lowvelder, a sensitively told tale about two psychics, one white, one black who join forces. It is a story of friendship across the racial divide, of people with remarkable gifts, of the power and synergy that can be generated when different belief systems interact, and of events that are so unlikely that they would have to be miracles. You will need to read it to fully understand and enjoy the complexities of the characters and storyline. Pott cleverly

and sensitively intertwines local history with folklore where good may finally triumph over evil.

BLINDSIDE by Wilna Adriaanse: Lieutenant Ellie McKenna’s life is turned on her head when her father, a Captain in the police force, is killed in a routine stop start in the city. She knows the gangs of Cape Town, she knows how they work and now she has an undercover position that will take her deep into their world. But at what cost? Brilliant SA fiction. Wilna is one to watch. R300, Tafelburg.

THE WEDDING GUEST by Jonathan Kellerman: I love the partnership between psychologist Alex Delaware and LAPD Lieutenant Milo Sturgis in this book. They are such an unlikely pair but they work so well together as investigating partners and friends.

And they are why the novel works so

read well. They are likeable, the case is interesting. Great and easy read.

Penguin Random House.

MY NAME IS ANNA by Lizzy Barber: Anna has been brought up in an extremely strict, puritan religious home. Dirt is ungodly, questions are forbidden, and routine is everything.

Her childhood has not been unhappy but it has been very sheltered and she has never left the limits of her village.

Until now. When Anna and a friend sneak out to visit Florida’s biggest theme park, why does it seem so familiar? Why does Anna start having strange dreams? What if her whole life is a lie? A brilliant novel following the lives of several characters. You will not be able to put it down until you too know the truth. Penguin Random House.

THE BLUE SALT ROAD by Joanne M. Harris: A modern-day fairytale and a stunning story of love, loss and revenge, against a powerful backdrop of adventure on the high seas, and drama on the land. The Blue Salt Road balances passion and loss, love and violence and draws on nature and folklore to weave a stunning modern mythology around a nameless, wild young man. R290, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

THE WYCH ELM by Tana French: Toby is a happy-go-lucky charmer who’s

dodged a scrape at work and is celebrating with friends when the night takes a turn that will change his life: he surprises two burglars who beat him and leave him for dead.

Struggling to recover from his injuries, beginning to understand that he might never be the same man again, he takes refuge at his family’s ancestral home. But when a skull is found in the garden, Toby is forced to confront his past, his family, himself. R290, Penguin Random House.

RUN AWAY by Harlan Coben: This latest book might just be his best.

Filled with intrigue, plot twists and drama, the story centres on Simon, whose daughter is a junkie and who he will do anything to find. But there is also an assassin out there who seems dangerously close. What is the connection? Who is who? Brilliantly crafted. R270, Penguin Random House.

MY SISTER THE SERIAL KILLER by Oyinkan Braithwaite: This dark comedy’s tag line is “when blood is thicker – and more difficult to get out of the carpet – than water...” When Korede’s dinner is interrupted one night by a distress call from her sister, Ayoola, she knows what’s expected of her: bleach, rubber gloves, nerves of steel and a strong stomach. This’ll be the third boyfriend Ayoola’s dispatched. But what happens when

Korede falls in love? R290, Penguin Random House.

HEADS YOU WIN by Jeffery Archer: Leningrad, Russia, 1968. Alexander Karpenko is no ordinary child, and from an early age, it is clear he is destined to lead his countrymen. But when his father is assassinated by the KGB for defying the state, he and his mother will have to escape from Russia if they hope to survive. At the docks, they are confronted with an irreversible choice: should they board a container ship bound for America, or Great Britain? Alexander leaves that choice to the toss of a coin . . . Fans will love Archer’s latest book, with its many twists that may shock even his biggest fans. Pan Macmillan.

my backyard

explore

your backyard We got a local’s insider info of stuff to do and see in and around Malelane Words Kim Springorum

best known as

one of the gateways to the Kruger and home to the world famous Leopard Creek golf course, the small farming town of Malelane has a lot to offer. One of the original meanings for the word Malelane is the Swazi lala, which means to sleep, an aptly fitting name for this laidback and friendly town. It is the centre of the Mpumalanga sugar cane industry and surrounded by tropical fruit and game farms.

Malelane’s hot, sluggish weather during the day, and dark Bushveld nights make it the ideal place to escape city life and unwind. So don’t forget to pack plenty of water and sunblock while we give you some ideas of what to do should if you have some spare time in between looking out for the Big Five.

If golf is your game then you are spoilt for choice. Besides the enviable Leopard Creek (www.leopardcreek.co.za), you can swing your clubs at Malelane Golf Club (013 790 0283), Kambaku Golf Club in Komatipoort (082 888 0188), or even share the course with the wildlife at Skukuza Golf Club (013 735 5543).

Cool off after a game drive at the Green Mamba water slide at Pestana Kruger Lodge (013 790 2500). The water slides costs R75 per person for three hours and you can enjoy lunch afterwards overlooking the Crocodile River.

Take in the sights of the Kruger from the back of a quad bike in Marloth Park. Letubi Quad Bikes offers quad bike tours where you can spot animals or seek adventure on

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their obstacle course. Great for bird-lovers. 076 858 7972 or quadbike@marlothparkthingstodo.co.za.

If you enjoy fishing then contact Manzini Lodge in Marloth Park www.manzinilodge.co.za. Try your hand at Tiger Fishing on the Komati River. Don’t worry, no crocs in that river! Dean 082 725 0880.

Dirk Lourens Cycles (082 890 6575) can organise mountain biking in the area and you can take in some great tracks and awesome sights along the Crocodile River and local farms.

Kwa Madalwala Private Game Reserve offers activities like horseback and walking trails. www.kwamadwala.net.

Just out of town, perched up on the hill, is Little Stonehaven and Mountain Range Horseback Trails.

Maryke Hastie organises horseback rides for all ages. Finish off with a picnic overlooking the valley. 076 823 1755, Facebook/MountainRangeHorsebackTrails For refreshments pop into The Duck and Dive Saloon (013 790 1258, Facebook/DucknDivePub) for pub food and great pizzas. Sit on the deck at Hamiltons Lodge and Restaurant (013 790 3421). Visit Pod Lifestyle for some great décor items or Mvubu Crafts for local crafts – both are in the gardens of Hamiltons. The Deck Restaurant (013 790 1246) is on the Crocodile River so game view while you enjoy lunch.

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nature Make a table centrepiece this spring – a fun DIY activity for the whole family

T

calls

he aloe family is found all over Africa with many species indigenous to South Africa. Most aloes are drought tolerant, which makes them a great waterwise plant. Aloe plants come in many varieties, with some well-suited for indoor growth. One of the more common potted types, the Aloe Vera, has an understated elegance with characteristic fleshy cool-green leaves making it perfect for creating a beautiful decoration in a vase. You can find a selection of aloes at your nearest nursery.

Words & photos Life is a Garden

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How to care for your Aloe: Aloes are low maintenance plants that require little care. Whilst in the vase/pot, do not water.

What you will need Aloe plant Glass vase or terracota pot River sand (coarse sand) Decorative stones (depending on your preference these could be natural stones, gem stones or decorative glass stones) Directions 1. Add a layer of sand to the bottom of the vase/pot.

2. Place a few of the stones on top of the sand for drainage.

3. Place the aloe in the vase/pot.

4. Add more sand and stones until desired look is created.

Do not add water!

Choosing a location Place aloe near a sunny window where they receive plenty of indirect sunlight. Too much bright, direct sunlight can brown the leaves. Rotate it once or twice a week so that all sides of the plant receive equal exposure. Your aloe will not survive indefinitely in this decorative vase. After a few weeks you will need to pot it.

Potting your aloe Plant your aloe in a pot that contains at least one large drainage hole and is 5 - 8cms larger in diameter than the base of the plant. Drainage is important because too much moisture around the aloe’s roots can cause root rot. Plant the aloe in a soil mixture formulated for cacti and other succulents, or combine equal parts potting soil and coarse sand to make your own mix.

When to water Water the aloe only when the soil has dried out completely, or every few weeks.

Pour water onto the soil near the base of the plant until thoroughly wet. Allow the pot to fully drain for about 30 minutes, and then promptly empty any excess water that has drained into the drip tray.

Fertiliser Aloes generally do not require feeding, although on occasion it can help a plant that doesn’t seem as healthy as it should be. Fertilise in mid-spring by diluting water with a liquid fertiliser formulated for houseplants.

For more information on bringing Life to your Garden, visit www.lifeisagarden.co.za or Facebook/lifeisagardensa GREATOUTDOORS | 2019

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mopani music

Elephant don’t generally get chased, but when they are they can be quite accommodating, providing there is a good reason. They are nevertheless quite curious and will venture only so far, before meandering back to see what’s going on. And what was going on was, for an elephant, a very strange sight Words Lynn Haken

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six musicians

lined up, gently tuning their instruments and a harp being settled on a black mat.

The soft pips of the flute could be heard against the backdrop of roosting birds and the silence of a setting sun, the rays caressing the bush like a loving mother. The huge beasts recognised that, for now, the surrounds of their waterhole was being utilised so they graciously melded into the bush, tearing some branches from the mopani to emphasise that this was their choice to leave, and not ours. But they didn’t go far and in fact last year, and unknown to concert-goers, remained just out of sight and enjoyed a musical soiree.

The 20th Anniversary of the Sunset Serenade, hosted at Mopani Rest Camp, had arrived along with the cool autumnal air after a scorching summer.

These concerts are held annually in the Kruger National Park, organised by an efficient team from the SANParks Honorary Rangers with the help and support of the regional rangers, who begin the planning operation a year in advance (as do the musicians). The proceeds raised go towards the projects of the SANParks Honorary Rangers Conservation Services; the primary objective being to make the job of the rangers as easy as possible. Bookings are made at the chosen camp and opened up to the mailing list, whereupon the concert/s become fully booked in a very short time. The team organise the sponsorships, goody-bags and transports, and have the sextet on board – a complement of talented musicians who give of their time and expertise to deliver, not only exquisite arrangements from light melodies of toe-tapping Jewish folk songs, popular music from musicals and intricate renditions of Vivaldi’s seasonal violin concertos to Mozart’s fluttering flute recitals and the fierce celebration of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, interspersed with amusing anecdotes and whimsical poetry. The original concerts were nothing like the slick operation they are now; the team originally did the actual catering themselves assisted by the staff sports club at Letaba, obtaining primitive lighting by using car batteries with wires running all over the place which attracted delighted insects. Nowadays, the guests sit on covered chairs and the portaloo is as glamorous as one can conceive, complete with attendant and hand towels! The drinks table is set up with sponsored wines and a cream-based liqueur, and proportions of general sales are donated for use

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by the anti-poaching projects within our National Parks in cooperation with the SANParks Honorary Rangers. And in the bush, unseen to the concert goers, a phalanx of rangers patrol, alert to any possible dangers. A pride of lion once visited; the curiosity of a cat evident irrespective of size.

They were discouraged by rangers having to shoot over their heads to ward off any further investigations. One night, halfway through a particular concert, rangers arrived with a massive python and chaos ensued. At one concert, a herd of buffalo decided to visit the clearing just prior to set up.

They were discouraged from remaining but the clean-up took much longer than anticipated and guests took their seats gingerly! Rain and dust storms have never caused the cancellation of a performance and the musicians and guests have packed up quickly in the past and continued the recital in the rest camps where facilities have quickly been organised. The show must go on!

The effects of rhino poaching have been well highlighted over the years. This scourge requires ongoing funds and a vast array of equipment used by a SANParks rangers (barring uniforms, weapons and ammunition) has been supplied by the Honorary Rangers Conservation Services. Sleeping bags, tents, water bottles, gas cookers, ponchos, camouflage nets, GPS, binoculars AND any legal aid representation for rangers that may be involved in shooting incidents have all been funded. Helicopter fuel, a salary of a full time pilot, a company to do the air wings administration (which frees up the pilots to fly more and push pens less), paid for the refurbishment of some of SANParks aircraft, plus put landing lights at Skukuza airport so aircraft can fly at night, has all been provided by this initiative.

There are so many people involved, all intent on protecting our animals. From the management of the KNP itself, the Chief Ranger, Section Rangers, Field and Regional

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Rangers, the SANParks Counter Poaching and Ranger Corps, MECs, the management and staff of the various camps, the people and conservation of the various regions, Specialised Reservations, sponsors, the musicians, to the concert-goers and the general public – all combine to ensure something effective is being done. And there are those who still are, and prefer to be, behind the scenes. So much time, effort and care is poured into the support for those who help to combat these crimes against nature and humanity. The very cruelty of poaching for profit is hard to understand, and the reasoning behind it is, well, unreasonable.

The sun is still warm, but weaker from the days’ efforts.

A slight breeze wafts amongst the mopani, dried amber coloured desiccated leaves carpet the bush floor. A small rodent rustles through the brush; the concert-goers take their seats, blankets thrown over the back, cardigans pulled closer to combat the whispering chill. The violins are playing discordant notes in tuning, the strings having become sharper in the cooler temperature. The harp stands majestic, its strings taut and biding its time until it is awakened by the kiss of the harpist’s hands. Sounds settle and then a respectful silence. The sequence of music is introduced by the cellist, and the evening begins…the music creates a contraction of the skin and scalp and we are swept away into a world of thoughts and dreams, closed eyes and sighs.

As the moon rises, casting us in a silvered glow amongst the murmuring stars, the words of Plato resonate: music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.

It is hoped, in our small, infinitesimal way, by just being there, we have all given life to our heritage.

INFO For further information, contact Counter Poaching counterpoaching@mweb.co.za

kids

kids stuff Girls are made of sugar & spice Nicolene Prinsloo is the creator of Kiddie Shack. Mom of three girls, with another on the way, Nicolene loves all things girlie. Think unique, pretty and pink – an apt description of her kid’s range too. We love the Lita Bunny; named after Thelitha, who is 9 and who has cerebral palsy.

The bunny was designed in such a way to make it easy for her to hold.

A percentage of all Lita bunnies go to Thelitha for treatments and more.

For more info or to order, get in touch. 079 525 7000, thekiddieshack@ gmail.com. Facebook/kiddieshackSA

kid stuff

A Wishing Chair Adventure, The Royal Birthday Party by Enid Blyton. Illustrated

by Alex Paterson: Another classic tale brought back to life with wonderful story telling and amazing illustrations. These stories about a magical flying chair and the young children who discover it are still enthralling. R100, Penguin Random House.

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The Secrets of Hope, The Honey Bee by Dr Gerry Brierley: A beautifully illustrated children’s book available from Amazon in both soft cover and Kindle. This is a tale that takes you on a journey through the world of the honey bee colony, with wonderful characters like Eve the Egg and Pippa the Pupae, Luna the Larva, Clarabelle the Cleaner Bee, Nancy the Nurse Bee and Bluebell the Beeswax Bee. Illustrated in exquisite detail, meet the different forager bee characters and the roles they play in a healthy happy hive, including Duke the King Drone and Queenie the Queen Bee. www.bee-effect.co.za

kids Collectible Toys are hot, hot hot!

Collectible toys are all the rage. Children love collecting – there’s something about having, keeping and swapping objects and watching a collection grow. Like marbles and yoyos for generations past, there is something profoundly satisfying about buying new toys, even if it is to trade them with friends on the playground.

It’s heartening that the digital age hasn’t erased a love of goodies we can sort, swap, squeeze or just show off. Most households boast an assortment of collectibles, from stuffed animals, dolls and trading cards to posters, memorabilia and vintage goodies, which suggests it’s not something we grow out of as adults. Chiquita Patrizi, spokesperson for Prima Toys, says there are a number of reasons why collectible toys are so popular. “They are relatively inexpensive, which is important in an economic downturn. This means children can spend their pocket money on them and don’t have to rely on their parents to buy them.

In addition, collectibles take trends into account and are undeniably ‘cool’. They also have social currency, so children enjoy them because they can trade, swap, share or gift them.”

They also have the cute factor and are healthier than sweet treats.

Beyond the ‘must have’ appeal, they teach children social skills like negotiation, trade and organisation. Collectible toys also feed into a very important developmental phase for children – traditional play.

While older children may be pushing toys aside in favour of devices, younger children who use technology are still more likely to request playtime with toys. So what’s out there? L.O.L.’s have become a phenomenon and the new range is already highly sought-after. Other girl’s collectibles include Shopkins Lil Secrets, Disney Doorables, Mini Boos, Pikmi Pops and Poopsie Slime. For boys, there is an awesome range of 5cm high Fortnite Battle Royale micro-collectibles, Treasure X, Pokemon and Mighty Beanz.

Prima Toys collectibles are available from local toy stores. www.primatoys.co.za

WIN WIN a hamper of Prima collectibles. To enter email your contact details to info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com and put “Prima” in the subject box. Closing date is September 31, 2019. Ts & Cs apply.

Chad Le Clos Road To Glory and Percy Tau Road To Glory by Jeremy Daniel: Daniel takes these kid’s sporting heroes and tells their stories. Entertaining and enlightening. R100 each, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom: Raptor Rescue by Caroline Rowlands: Return to Jurassic World with this official Augmented Reality guide to the movie Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. The all-new Augmented Reality dinosaurs will blow your mind – simply download the free app, then use your AR tracker to collect all of the amazing dinosaurs in the book. For the fans. R170, Penguin Random House.

kids

party time

“Today was good.

Today was fun.

Tomorrow is another one.”

Dr Seuss Words Kim Springorum

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kids

gone are the days

of a few friends around a homemade cake singing Happy Birthday. Children’s parties are big business and can be very stressful for parents. But with a little planning, your child’s next party does not have to be your worst nightmare! Armed with our handy guide, the celebration can be stress free and as easy as making an Ina Paarman box cake.

PLANNING IS KEY. Start planning early and save the date. A first birthday may just be a family affair while older children can enjoy a special treat with a few friends. It is always a good idea to choose a theme, as this can help determine every aspect of the planning process from invitations to décor to food. Pinterest is a brilliant website to source ideas and of course involve the children if they have a favourite animal or superhero. Just be prepared for fabulous ideas like a shark cowboy party or a princess mermaid disco theme! For smaller children, a colour or letter of the alphabet works well such as P for princess, pirate, pop star and policemen. Children love dressing up and if you are no good with a glue gun or handy with the sewing machine, Fantasy Flair (082 055 9824) has a great choice of dress up clothes for hire. For help with décor, Maryke Fouché from Party Chicks (082 527 4691) can assist with party printables and décor ideas. Or visit Pop Epoch in Nelspruit for a wide range of party décor and balloons (www.facebook.com/ popepoch.nelspruit).

LOCATION … LOCATION … LOCATION. It is always nice not to have to clean up sticky juice off the floor or chocolate cake off the carpet. In the Lowveld there are some great venues for parties. The Lowveld National Botanical Gardens (013 752 5531) has a great play area, plenty of space to run around and a coffee shop to cater for the moms. Mankele (www. mankele.co.za) is fabulous for an energetic cycling party. You can have a picnic under a boma by the pool so the children can cool off after riding their bikes. There is also tubing down the river or whizzing down the zip line.

And for the brave you can camp! For a fisherman’s party, Horseshoe Trout & About in Sabie (www.bigskyoutdoor.co.za), is a hidden gem. The small dam is full of trout and you can hire a fully kitted braai area.

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kids

For a fun outside play area, visit Dandelion Park and Café (076 139 0022) at the Bahati Centre. It’s a great venue for all types of celebrations.

They offer party setup with décor and catering. www.dandelioncafe.co.za.

For smaller groups why not host a superfast Formula One party at the Riverside Go Kart Park at Riverside Mall (072 896 2069). Ludwig, who runs the track, is knowledgeable and fun. The track is suitable from ages five years and up and the kids will have a blast racing each other around the track. Take along medals as prizes for the budding racers. Ilanga Mall has an ice rink or you can try your hand at ten pin bowling or the jump park. Casterbridge Cinema in White River is available for private hire for a movie or an Oscars themed party. Girls will love the Princess Pamper Parties at Olivers Wellness and Beauty Clinic (013 750 0479, wellness@ olivers.co.za). Little ladies under the age of 12 get to enjoy a day of spoils with three treatments each and games like build your own cupcake, pin the cucumber, spa word search and spin the colour wheel.

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD! Catering for a party need not be the equivalent of a royal banquet. Keep it simple and include some healthy options such as robot fruit kebabs. Pizza slices work well as kids don’t often eat too much while they are busy running around. Keep the sweets for the take home treat bags … that way you don’t have to pick up endless half eaten Fizzers and the sugar rush goes home with the moms!

If you are looking for something a bit special try Cookyloo Creations (www.facebook.com/Cookyloocreations). They make beautifully iced individual biscuits to suit your theme.

kids

LET THEM EAT CAKE! The birthday cake is an important part of the celebrations. A simple cake with a digital icing image of a favourite character is always fun. Milky Lane make yummy personalised rainbow ice cream cakes. If you are in the Malelane/Komatipoort area, Jeannine de Silva (082 686 0762) does wonders with fondant icing. Grab our Winter Warmer edition for the contact details of all the baking giants in the Lowveld for all your biscuit and cakes needs.

ABRACADABRA … ALAGAZAM! Most children love a clown show or a magic show. Andre Bladwell (www.magicshow.co.za) will keep kids enthralled. A jumping castle or water slide is also a good option. Jaco’s Jumping Castles (www.jacosjumpingcastles.co.za) has an extensive range, as does Fungalore (www.fungalore.net). Young kids love having their face painted and Monica Mouton from Unique Faces (076 700 5579) will transform the little ones into tigers, lions and fairies.

Party games keep kids busy. Musical chairs and statues are still firm favourites. Pass the Parcel is a winner, but a good idea is to have a little prize under each wrapping so that all the children get something and it keeps them from getting bored. Boys love a treasure hunt and obstacle courses make great games for cowboy or army parties. Girls love to dance so why not hire the Juke Box from Fantasy Flair and host a talent show or disco party. Give each child a bag full of fun tattoos, nail stickers and hair accessories. For something a little more educational, let your aspiring scientists try their hand at experiments. Die Witjassies & Little Lab Coats have a variety of science themes to choose from for budding palaeontologists, entomologists and volcanologists (Dalena Kirsten 083 452 1438). Or give Jason from the Perrys Bridge Reptile Centre in Hazyview a call (013 764 1177). He will come to your home with a selection of snakes and give the kids an informative and interactive talk.

And now it is time to take a bow. A job well done, wonderful memories made and pictures to treasure.

GREATOUTDOORS | 2019

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kids

Ella&Karl Whimsical Donuts

Mobile dessert bar available

events parties weddings corporate functions

@whimsicaldonuts www.ellakarl.co.za 076 892 8690 24 LOWVELDLIVING #76

kids

Under 18’s only pay R70pp, including a medium popcorn and a 500ml soda Ts and Cs apply • Valid until 31 Oct • To see movies showing go to Emnotweni.co.za

GREATOUTDOORS | 2019

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eat

eat & drink

Now you can taste these wines for yourself. WIN a case of Seaward wine.

Email your contact details to info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com and put “Seaward” in the subject box. Closing date is September 31, 2019. Ts & Cs apply.

A TASTE OF THE COAST

WIN

The winemakers at Spier Wine Farm have spent the last two years developing a unique duo that pay homage to the benefits of growing grapes along the coast. The Seaward range offers a sophisticated, lightlywooded Chardonnay. Find aromas of ruby grapefruit, mango, and citrus with undertones of raw almonds on a creamy palate. The spicy Shiraz showcases aromas of mulberry, violets and plum supported by infused allspice. The palate has richness with good length. Cellar Master Frans Smit says, “There is a purity of fruit in these wines, with great concentration, balance and finesse. The common thread is a saline minerality, given the proximity to the ocean.” Available from the Spier Wine shop and local liquor stores.

praise the sun

&get outdoors

THE ZEST OF LIFE Zest@Kavinga is the quintessential country dining spot.

Situated on a farm in the hills above Nelspruit – about 15 minutes from the centre of town – it is surrounded by peaceful gardens with spectacular views of the Mpumalanga bushveld. In fact the views are definitely a reason to take the drive out there and enjoy a long lazy Sunday lunch with friends and family. We took the kids who also appreciated the expanse of lawn to play on, and young ones will enjoy the jungle gym and trampoline.

Under the eagle eye of Chef GT Lundie, the Zest team offer impeccable service, friendly smiles and of course, delicious food. We started with a Gorgonzola tart; a trio of Gorgonzola, roasted butternut and caramalised onions served with smoked tomato chutney. A very generous portion of two tarts was magnificently presented, and certainly a highlight.

For mains we chose the kingklip. Lemon butter grilled fish on a bed of mussel and leek risotto. Equally beautiful to look at and delicious. The kids enjoyed the small people option of chicken schnitzel, chips and cheese sauce. A tantalising

wine list is on offer and the helpful team are on hand to make superb food and wine pairings. The sublime choice of desserts certainly makes ending your meal harder. Think chocolate fondant, which boasts a marshmallow centre, choc nut brownie ice-cream and white chocolate soil. We loved the care and thoughtfulness directed towards all guests big and small. The kids didn’t want the usual ice-cream and choc sauce but rather a “grownup” pud. In true Zest style, a special desert of chocolate brownies, caramel sauce and ice-cream was beautifully presented and very much appreciated.

Zest@Kavinga still offers that old-world charm of dining from our parents’ era, where table settings, atmosphere, music and staff are as important as the food. Enjoy the splendour of our Lowveld winters on their terrace and while away your afternoon in this picturesque spot.

INFO Parking, accommodation available & catering services. Booking essential. Fri 12pm- 9pm. Sat 9am-9.30pm.

Sun 9am-15.30pm. Closed Monday and Sunday evenings. Pop into Le Petit Zest Bistro Café in town, Mon to Fri 7am-4pm.

q&a CHATTING TO ANDRIES FROM G’S

WHAT IS G’S BISTRO? I think the Who, is more important. Our restaurant wouldn’t be anything if it were not for my great team. WHO IS THE TEAM? We are a family-owned business of myself (Andries), Ina and Thys Ruthven. Our team has 20 cooks that I lead in the kitchen and we try to make our passion come through on each plate. WHAT DO YOU SPECIALISE IN? Our focus is on serving hearty family-style meals that combine great taste and flavour and are easy on the wallet. WHAT CAN WE EXPECT AT G’S? You can expect a relaxed atmosphere to come and unwind. A play area for the kiddies, so mom and dad can catch up. A bar area if you are feeling adventurous, some great craft beer and craft gins, and always a variety of amazing specials. SIGNATURE DISH? I would say all of them but we do seem to be popular for our great Eisbein and curries!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CATERING BUSINESS? G’s Catering can do any event at any location. I love sitting down with clients and making their dream function a reality. From weddings, corporate events, kitchen teas, bachelorettes, festivals and more – we can adjust menus, budget, décor and style to suit each client’s individual needs. WHAT SETS YOU APART?

eat & drink

From a very young age, I had role models in the business industry. My parents have always been exceptionally hardworking people, and they taught me that even though running a business successfully is important; working with people, being humble and creating long-lasting client relationships are what sets a business, and team, apart.

ANY RECOMMENDATIONS? You must try our pulled pork.

TELL US SOMETHING NO ONES KNOWS? We strive to achieve the perfect balance between memorable service and warm, hearty food that will make you come back for another serving, with a big smile. Our cooks each use their own secret ingredients of passion and endurance, and I always encourage them to bring their own flavours and ideas to each plate. ANYTHING TO ADD? We are popular for our platters and take away meals. FIVE YEAR PLAN? To expand into the specialised catering market for the broader Lowveld community and surrounding areas.

INFO G’s Bistro & Bar, 076 396 1046, gsbistro1@gmail.com, andriesruthven@me.com, Facebook/gsbistrobar

HAVE YOU HEARD OF HUNGRY HUB? Exclusively available in Nelspruit, the latest food delivery app was recently launched exclusively in the greater Nelspruit area for easy, quick delivery of food from your favourite food stores – Steers, Wimpy, Fishaways, Debonairs, Europa, Mugg & Bean and Turn n Tender. Simply download the app from either Google Play or the App Store and receive R50 off your first order. www.hungryhub.co.za

MAKE H2O YOUR FRIEND THIS SUMMER Gozone Water are the new boys on the block.

Distributing purified remineralised ozonised water right here in the Lowveld. With a 5-stage pre-filtration system, water is stripped down to its natural state; this process removes impurities and is safer than using chlorine. Gozone also reintroduces certain salts to create a balance of electrolytes in the body. 100% hydration.

WIN WIN a case of Gozone Water and feel the effects yourself. Email your details to info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com and put “Gozone” in the subject box.

Closing date is Sept 31, 2019.

Ts & Cs apply.

eat & drink

microbiomes&more Meg is the creative force behind The Good Gut Guru – a local blog that promotes healing your gut and yourself This is Meg’s story: “I grew up on a farm outside Numbi, then moved to Cape Town to study Film Production at UCT and lived there for nine years working as a freelance copywriter. I moved back to the Lowveld in the beginning of the year and have since started studying Holistic Nutrition & Health Coaching through a college in New York.

My interest in gut health started about four years ago when I ended up in hospital with a bad reaction to gluten.

I decided that there was something more to this reaction than just simply cutting out certain food groups. I then started studying the gut microbiome, how it works and why it matters so much to our overall health. I did a guided three-month gut healing protocol and started healing from my food intolerances. The protocol was complicated but afterwards, I felt better than ever before, and that’s when I decided that more people need to know about gut health.

I started my Instagram page shortly afterwards. It’s been a

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passion project of mine and I’m meeting such cool people through it.

But more than that, my goal is to show people that FOOD CAN HEAL! A damaged or unbalanced gut microbiome (known as dysbiosis) has shown to be the root of all sorts diseases, food intolerances, weight gain, fatigue, immune responses and so much more. Having a healthy gut is so important to overall health.

For me, the most important things to do on a daily basis is to nourish your gut bugs by eating mainly plant-based food and moving your body! As of June of this year, I offer health coaching programmes whereby I work closely with clients to heal their gut and watch the magic unfold, while keeping their health goals in mind. Healing my gut has changed my world, and I want to share that with as many people as I can! My gut-lovin’ smoothies are my favourite recipes – especially the GUT-LOVIN’ CHOC RECIPE. I also love making delicious, wholesome plant-based meals that are designed to nourish your gut microbiome.”

INFO For more info, contact Megan meganbense@gmail.com, www.instagram.com/the_good_gut_guru/ www.thegoodgutguru.com

eat & drink

gut-lovin

choc smoothie

This smoothie is high in fibre (great food for your gut bugs), it’s high in plant-based protein (great for recovery) and it’s got all the good stuff that adds to its creamy texture & taste. You literally can’t go wrong with this one. .

recipe

1 cup blended oats 1 banana 1/2 cup almond milk 1 heaped tsp hemp protein powder (optional) 1 scoop nutritech vegan protein 2 tsp cacao powder Blend it all together Top with granola and cacao nibs

nourish bowl

This delightful bowl of roasted chickpeas, avo, roasted sweet potato and drizzled with the most FANTASTIC tahini and lemon creation. Other than how delicious it is, let’s talk about how nutritious it is. Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and gut-lovin’ fibre. Sweet potatoes are very high in beta-carotene, which means it supports the immune system and is great for your skin health. Avo is loaded with potassium, healthy fats & fibre. And the tahini is rich in B vitamins. This bowl is the perfect picture of a plant-based gut-lovin’ bowl.

dressing 2 tbls tahini Juice of half a lemon 1 tbls of water Crack of salt Mix it all up and enjoy

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goodmood

food

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promotion

the restaurant

Doppio Zero recently opened its doors at Ilanga Mall. The premium brand prides itself on offering something unique to the restaurant scene with food that is truly inspiring

group originated in Johannesburg and now has restaurants in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria, Egypt and more recently, Nelspruit. The story of Doppio began when it was just a bakery and al fresco café in Greenside in 2002, owned entrepreneurs Paul Christie and Miki Milovanovic. Over time, it evolved into a full service restaurant, keeping the deli where you can buy freshly baked artisanal Italian bread and sweet treats as well as meringues, rusks, biscuits and jams.

The name Doppio Zero originates from the grading of the finest milled flour Double Zero, used to make pizza and pasta.

Their ethos is simple. Their customers are their guests.

“We are passionate about innovation and we believe in our people,” says Nelspruit General Manager, Alistair Chadwick.

“We are like one big happy Italian familia.”

The décor of the restaurant is fresh and modern. The space is large and comfortable. Funky café-style chairs, handcrafted Mediterranean tiles and rustic lighting add to a chic, yet relaxed atmosphere. There is a vibe in the air and the service is friendly and attentive.

Doppio’s menu is eclectic, with a distinctly Mediterranean feel and offering traditional Italian fare. It caters for a variety of tastes including some wonderful vegan options. A favourite is the fusion inspired tapas such as Mozzarella Croquettes with Chilli Herb Mayo or Sticky Pork Bites, which are great for sharing over a cold glass of Chardonnay. “We want to offer something the whole family can enjoy together,” says Cassandra Davis, Group Executive Chef.

Cassie, as she is fondly known, has been a member of the Doppio family for over seven years. “We play a lot with new flavours and blend our own spices. Every season we revisit the menu with fresh ideas and seasonal ingredients.”

Cassie is always looking for ways to delight the Doppio Zero guests with her passion for Mediterranean-inspired cooking and her zest for life. “We pride ourselves on being real, authentic and approachable.” The spirit of sharing is at the heart of everything Doppio does and the community connections that they build.

Doppio Zero is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

They also offer a catering option. A selection of meals can be pre-ordered and are served in stylish, white ceramic dishes. And keep up with them on social media so that you don’t miss out on their functions such as beer & burger evenings, gin tastings and wine evenings. An option for your year-end function perhaps? Whether it is for a breakfast, brunch, a long, lazy lunch or an intimate dinner, Doppio Zero is a warm, welcome addition to the Lowveld.

INFO Doppio Zero is at Ilanga Mall opposite Exclusive Books. 013 742 0019, www.doppio.co.za GREATOUTDOORS | 2019

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drink

spring tipples

Haute Cabriere Chardonnay Pinot Noir is a perfectly balanced wine that complements Mediterranean-styled foods, pasta, chicken or fish dishes. Available from Rooikat Liquors. www.cabriere.co.za Delush Natural Sweet White surprises with sweet sunhine honey and tangy apple flavours. www.delushwines.co.za.

Available from Rooikat Liquors.

Flagstone Ice: The new contemporary sweet, Sauvignon Blanc dessert wine, called Ice, is housed in a slim 375ml bottle with an ice-white wax seal and adorned with a frozen Sauvignon Blanc leaf. Gorgeous to look at and quite delicious to drink. Think honey on ice. Created to enhance desserts, Flagstone Ice is velvet on the mouth and tangy on the palate.

Think dried apricots, quinces and almonds ending with a vibrant, fresh acidity. Serve chilled. R120 via cellar door only. www.flagstonewines.com Hermanpietersfontein Kaalvoet Meisie epitomises the Soul of Sondagskloof, who grew up in the heart of South Africa’s

cool climate. The wine is known for its natural freshness and mouthfeel. A cool climate Sauvignon Blanc, with European minerality, nuances of fresh local fynbos and green apple.

Available from Rooikat Liquors. www.hpf1855.com Flagstone Two Roads Chardonnay is named after the poem

by Robert Frost because their winemaking philosophy takes them in many creative directions. A bright white gold in colour with a green tint, the bouquet offers a complex nose of floral notes of lemon blossom, bright citrus and hints of cinnamon spice. On the palate, discover citrus and white peach, complemented by delicate notes of cinnamon. Delicious with fish and chicken. R109, available from liquor stores. www. flagstonewines.com La Motte Sauvignon Blanc: Attractive engaging gooseberry character on first impression, followed by pineapple, lime and wild grass. Well balanced by a moderate acidity and alcohol.

Polished on the palate with medium-round weight and a vibrant, dry and refreshing finish. Available from Rooikat Liquors.

Photo: Brooke Cagle – unsplash.com

style

behind the

brand

Your guide to the Lowveld’s talented jewellery designers and their exquisite creations

style

Betsy Guthrie is the artist behind this unique and colourful jewellery brand. “Tea and Art are two of my favourite things, don’t know what I would do without them. I always have a cup of tea while making my earrings.”

Tell us about you? My name is Betsy, I am 24, originally from Barberton and proud to be a Lowvelder. I am currently doing my Masters degree in Special Needs Education at the NWU Potchefstroom Campus and would love to go back to the Lowveld and work as a Remedial Therapist.

I have always loved art and joined art classes at Thea Lemmers house in Barberton from the age of six. From then on I couldn’t put a paintbrush, pencil or any art medium down. I needed an artistic outlet from all of the books and studying. I saw a YouTube tutorial on polymer clay earrings and instantly fell in love. The next day I bought supplies and haven’t stopped since.

Anything to add? Life is too short to wear boring jewellery.

Sum up your jewellery style in 3 words: Colourful, unique, bohemian.

What kind of jewellery do you make? I make polymer clay earrings.

Best sellers? Earrings with tassels and the pairs with mustard colour accents on it.

Which famous person would you like wearing your creations?

I wish Frida Khalo could wear my earrings, I know it is unrealistic but she was a strong independent woman who loved to wear big bold jewellery. She is an inspiration.

What materials do you use and why? Polymer clay, because of its light weight. I can’t stand wearing heavy earrings that pull on my ears.

Who are you making jewellery for? For unique individuals who aren’t afraid of wearing bold statement piece accessories. Confident woman, and I hope that my earrings make these woman feel more confident.

What is trending in the jewellery world? Large bold earrings with and without tassels.

What are you influenced by/inspired by? Frida Khalo. I LOVE colour and patterns. My friends say that my flat is a mix of all of my favourite patterns and colours and I still make it look put together.

I am also inspired by nature, flowers and plants. I surround myself with plants.

Where will we find your creations? I am currently on Instagram as @Tea_and_arttt and deliver my earrings via Postnet if you are not able to get them directly from me.

INFO teaandarttt@gmail.com

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style

The name comes from owner/designer Helmut Müller‘s favourite metal to work with. We chat to Helmut about his work.

Tell us about you? I am originally from Germany. I trained in jewellery design for three and a half years at a German jewellery firm. I design and make exclusive jewellery. I lived in Welkom in the Free State’s Goldfields for 30 years, and moved to Nelspruit in 2018. I also have experience in the rough diamond trade and can advise clients on diamond quality, cut, shape and size. If you don’t find anything in my collection, I will design a custom made piece for you.

Sum up your jewellery style in 3 words: Classic, handmade, unique.

What kind of jewellery do you make? Gold and silver jewellery – rings, pendants, earrings, bangles/bracelets, handmade chains.

Best sellers? Engagement rings and our African Collection.

Which famous person would you like wearing your creations? Richard Branson.

What materials do you use? Preferably gold as it is timeless and long lasting. I also use silver due to the cost effectiveness. I use diamonds, tanzanites, rubies, emeralds, sapphires and many other gemstones in my work – it just depends what my clients want.

Who are you making jewellery for? Anyone. Young and old. Extravagant pieces for those who can afford it and cost effective jewellery for those on a budget.

What is trending in the jewellery world?

I prefer classic to trendy. Timeless pieces that don’t date are the best gifts.

What are you influenced by/inspired by? I love the South African bush. I am inspired by nature and love to see animals in the wild in their natural habitats.

My hobby is filming nature.

What else should we know? I can assist clients with their choice of design, which metal to use and will give guidance on gemstones. You can remake an old piece that you don’t wear and I will also educate you as a buyer and help you choose jewellery that will suit your lifestyle.

Where will we find your creations? At my shop in Sonpark, and soon to be online on my website, www.18Carat.co.za.

INFO 18 Carat Jewellers Nelspruit.

FaceBook/18-Carat-Jewellers-Nelspruit, Instagram/18.carat.

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style

Francesca Subacchi Nel is the talent behind this name, which is Italian word for star, something that is very special to her.

Who are you? I am Italian, born and raised in Piacenza; the last of five daughters and I have always had a love affair with fashion. From working for top designers in London, I always wanted to be part of creating something that women can wear and really fall in love with. I am passionate about what I’m doing even though it’s a hobby for now but I’m hoping one day Stella&Co will be a full time job.

Sum up your jewellery style in 3 words: Expressive, bold, feminine.

What kind of jewellery do you make? I create Soutache jewellery. A flat decorative braid woven around beads and colourful stones to creating jewellery and accessories.

Best sellers? Each of my pieces is unique and not one is the same. I have noticed my clients seem to like more natural colours rather than a specific shape or style.

Which famous person would you like wearing your creations? If I had to choose a celebrity I wouldn’t mind seeing Jennifer Lawrence strutting her stuff down Hollywood Boulevard wearing Stella & Co. What materials do you use? To create soutache jewellery you need narrow flat cord, beads, needle and thread, glue and lots of imagination.

Who are you making jewellery for? I like to think that my pieces are more for the everyday wear. From the girl next door to career women to housewives and movie stars.

What is trending in the jewellery world? I believe the trend at the moment is very 80’s bold and colourful. I’m a big fan of this style but jewellery is very personal to whoever wears it so trends are also what make them feel special.

What are you influenced by/inspired by? I’m inspired by colours and textures.

Where will we find your creations? You can find Stella & Co at BFM@Casterbridge every first Saturday of the month. FB and soon on Instagram.

INFO 076 839 2429, francescasubacchinel@gmail.com

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style

Melissa Skinner named her jewellery store after her two beautiful daughters, Kara Violet and Milla Rose.

Who are you? I am a driven and hardworking mom, wife and boss with a passion for people and jewellery. My family is very important to me; getting married was one of the biggest highlights in my life. I’m a believer in change, setting goals and achieving them, not taking away from the fact that everyday life is a school lesson that I learn from. My latest goal is starting a range that my clients can identify my brand with. My clients’ style changes over the years, helping them with that process excites me. Jewellery is intimate and each persons’ piece needs to complement his or her personality. I hope I will leave an amazing legacy for my daughters; a dash of art, a lot of hard work and even more kindness.

What is your personal jewellery style? Bold statement pieces, I prefer yellow gold and I love diamonds especially with a little colour.

What kind of jewellery do you make? We focus mainly on customized jewellery such as engagement rings,

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remodelling of old jewellery, repairs, maintenance on jewellery and basic watch repairs.

Best sellers? We do have a reputation for our customised service catering for everyones individual needs.

What is trending in the jewellery world? We do not follow trends too closely but use them as guidelines for our designs. Our clients are our inspiration. The market has taken an interesting twist over the years. The economy plays a role in the value of the piece or pieces purchased.

Clients are also a lot more educated in what they purchase, thanks to all the various search engines available.

What materials do you use? Gold, silver, platinum and palladium. Gold is of course our all-time favourite.

Who are you making jewellery for? We pride ourselves on catering to the needs of a multi spectrum market. We make jewellery for everyone.

What are you influenced by/inspired by? Everyday Life and people inspire me.

Where will we find your creations? On my clients of course.

INFO 013 742 2267, admin@violetrose.co.za, Facebook/ violetandrose, InstagramViolet_&_Rose_JewelleryCo

style

Roy Sarkin manufactures jewellery and is a bronze wildlife sculptor.

He showcases his beautiful creations in his elegant shop at Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre.

Tell us about you? In my 50 years, as an artisan jeweler, my attention to detail and technical skills have been refined, now culminating in many complicated pieces of fine jewellery. I qualified as a Master Goldsmith in Germany in 1968. I then went on an art pilgrimage in Europe for 13 months; an experience that would come to have a profound effect on my life as an artist and on the quality with which I would choose to ply my trade. My love of nature and art was nurtured from an early age and I developed a keen and observant eye that allows me to create jewellery and bronze wildlife sculptures. My urge to create goes beyond the visual and tactile with a deep and abiding passion for playing the classical guitar.

Your jewellery style? Simplicity, who I am!

What kind of jewellery do you make? Jewellery for eternity. I make fine, handmade, luxury bespoke jewellery and engagement rings with intense attention to detail.

Best sellers? Engagement rings and one of a kind jewellery pieces.

Which famous person would you like wearing your creations? Everyone deserves the same quality, no favourites.

What materials do you use? Gold and platinum, for the love of gold.

Diamonds, because diamonds are forever and exceptional gemstones and semi-precious stones, as they add more colour to life.

Who are you making jewellery for? I design and create jewellery for people who have a discerning eye and who want unique jewellery.

What is trending in the jewellery world? Jewellery that elevates the individual style.

What are you influenced by/inspired by? Nature and life.

Where will we find your creations? In our store at Casterbridge in White River and online.

INFO 013 7512747, 0829419808, www.info@krugerjewels.co.za, info@krugerjewels.co.za

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style Jen Renssen is the creative behind Red Bush Jewellery.

The line was inspired by their first home in White River which was in Rooibos Street. “My Son, James who was living in America at the time, suggested the English spin on the name …. and Red Bush was born.”

Tell us about you? After relocating from Cape Town 10 years ago I have embraced life in the Lowveld, which inspired me to develop the Red Bush range. It started as a hobby but is now a much loved established business. I am one of the rare few who has been able to turn my passion into my career along with raising my daughter Jessica in White River.

Sum up your jewellery style in 3 words: Classical, African, inspired.

What kind of jewellery do you make? Necklaces, bracelets and earrings that can easily be paired together or worn separately.

Best sellers? Suede Charm Bracelets, Bird Necklace, Daisy Chain Necklace, Tree of Life Necklace and Earrings.

Which famous person would you like wearing your creations? I definitely think Helen Zille would look fantastic wearing one of the Daisy Chain Necklaces on the red carpet

to the opening of Parliament.

What materials do you use? I use nickel free metal as far as possible. Suede and leather are also a component.

A number of my designs include the use of the grey Zulu Teething Beads, which are sourced locally.

Who are you making jewellery for? The jewellery is aimed at national and international tourists, as everyone likes to take home a memory of their visit to our beautiful province.

I also enjoy making my “pretty range” for the local market.

What is trending in the jewellery world? Yellow seems to be popular as an accessory colour. Simple designs will always be timeless What are you influenced by/inspired by? I love bead shops and can immediately see a design in my mind from the raw materials. A visit to the bush or a trip to the sea also inspires me; I love texture and colour.

Where will we find your creations? Africa Joy at Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre, Skukuza Airport, Afsaal in the Kruger Park, Milly’s Farmstall, Kumi Schoemanskloof, Nkambeni Safari Lodge, South Tribe Graskop and various Private Lodges.

INFO 0837788421, info@redbushjewellery.co.za, Facebook/Red Bush Jewellery Yolanda Woodrow Photography

style

Nina Bosch Porcelain is the name of Nina’s unique jewellery brand. We chat to the born and bred Lowvelder about her style of jewellery making.

Tell us about you? Born and raised in a family of ceramic artists, I work from a studio in White River. Drawing inspiration from geometric and organic shapes found in nature, I started my business with the desire of finding a way to merge my surroundings together creatively. My creations are made from porcelain and I further incorporate a variety of different materials such as glazes, pigments, 18 carat gold lustre and sterling silver.

Every piece is handmade with care, giving special attention to detail while embracing natural imperfections of the hand at work.

Sum up your jewellery style in 3 words: Individual, organic shapes, honest.

What kind of jewellery do you make? Porcelain jewellery.

Best sellers? Nguni collection.

Which famous person would you like wearing your creations?

Alexa Chung.

What materials do you use? Porcelain – it’s soft to work with and you can create almost anything with it.

Who are you making jewellery for? All jewellery lovers who appreciate handcrafted pieces.

What is trending in the jewellery world? Statement pieces.

What are you influenced by/inspired by? Nature – everything I see and experience every day.

Where will we find your creations? Online store at www.ninabosch.co.za along with a list of stockists.

INFO info@ninabosch.co.za, Facebook/Nina Bosch Porcelain Jewellery, Instagram/nina_bosch_porcelain. www.ninabosch.co.za GREATOUTDOORS | 2019

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TRAC road conditions make for an

AMAZING DRIVING

experience For 24-hour roadside assistance on the N4 Toll Route call

0800 87 22 64

facebook.com/TracN4

www.tracn4.co.za

instagram.com/TracN4

@TRACN4route

TRACN4

go

go

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go

ultimate wellness SantÊ Wellness Retreat & Spa, set in a valley between Paarl and Franschhoek, may just be one of the world’s best places to genuinely revitalise and heal Words Trevor Crighton

GREATOUTDOORS | 2019

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go

it’s very rare

to find a space that fundamentally feels healthy – but that’s just the sense that settles on you the second you click your car’s ignition off in the car park at Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa. The Paarl air is crisp, the distant mountains look freshly-laundered and the imposing stack of buildings before you are pristine – and all this, before you’ve even set foot in the door.

This is not the place to come for a gentle patchouliscented prod and a glass of bubbly in the jacuzzi as you ponder a pedicure. The property has every iota of its attention laser-focussed on wellness, rather than pampering – though there’s certainly plenty of that on offer, too.

Every facet of the Santé experience – from the retreat, the spa, the accommodation, to the dining experience and every plant on the grounds – is geared towards fostering a genuine sense of wellness in its guests. The facilities are all there (steam rooms, hydrotherapy and vinotherapy baths, saunas, an indoor heated pool and jacuzzi, a labyrinth and a fitness centre) and the boxes are all ticked, but it’s the inherent culture that sets the property apart from any simple spa experience as natural practices combine with expert scientific and holistic technologies to create what could possibly be considered as the ultimate sanctuary for anyone wanting to genuinely heal and rejuvenate.

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The Day Spa – the largest in the country – is home to just about every type of treatment you could possibly imagine, but again, the key to it is a series of proper consultations with the staff to get to the root of what brings you to Santé. There isn’t a therapist on the team with less than 15 years’ experience in the wellness industry – and it shows, as they tailor packages to maximise the experience and tackle the underlying issues, rather than the symptoms. There are a host of therapies on the menu beyond the normal spa fare, including a ‘Pro-Sleep’ massage, which combines custom oil blends, touch with specialised brushes and relaxation-inducing music (not a pan-pipe in hearing range) to relieve feelings of anxiety, uplift the mood and help promote relaxation. While individual treatments can be booked, there are tailored spa journeys which harness the best treatments for Relaxation, Detox, Rejuvenation and Anti-Ageing, specifically.

Accommodation in any of the 31 rooms – split between 10 spacious Retreat Suites, 20 even-more luxurious Spa Suites and a Deluxe Retreat Suite – sumptuous, at the very least. Each room is completely different, immaculately decorated and generously appointed and boasts staggering views across the manicured gardens in which a Carey Carter sculpture of a figure evocatively arcing its back in a heart-opening Bhujangasana yoga pose, has pride of place. In the distance, the mountains of Paarl and

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Franschhoek are a study in distance shading and there’s not a sound alien to nature in earshot.

Food is a major part of the wellness focus at Santé and Chef Terrence Ford and his team at the nourish restaurant will dismantle everything you think you know about low-GI meals created without the presence of sugar, dairy, gluten, preservatives, colourants, additives or hormones. Creating dishes sans any of those elements would seemingly suggest the delivery of plates filled with either vapid floral arrangements or tasteless, colourless mystery items, but Ford’s food screams ‘vitality’ in colour, flavour and form. Not exactly vegan or vegetarian (though that’s an option with advance warning to the kitchen) each meal is worth the trip, alone, and the food at Santé stands proudly alongside the finest produced by any fine dining kitchen in the country.

While eating healthy and staying fit have always been part of Ford’s personal philosophy, the idea that every component of each meal at Santé should be healing to the body tested his levels of creativity and awareness in preparing the right food and forced him to start thinking about food in a totally different way. Organic wines and

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spirits are also on the menu, to ensure that every aspect of the meal maximises nutrition – without having to deprive yourself of the comforts.

Santé is also home to the only Health Optimizing Royal Retreat on the continent. Based on technology honed in Norway by researcher Thomas Asknes while on the hunt for solutions to his own health problems, Health Optimising seeks to diagnose the underlying issues causing disease and then helping the body self-correct. Without making outrageous claims, the technology does seem to have a reasonable success rate in identifying and solving many health challenges that conventional and alternative medicine struggle to cure. Health Optimising treatments at Santé see clients undergoing all-encompassing medical assessments on an array of high-tech devices to understand if and where cellular, tissue and organ imbalances and dysfunction occur, what the underlying trigger and causative factors are, before harnessing the body’s own mechanisms to correct them.

Go high-tech, go low-tech, go relax, go get nourished – just go find yourself in a beautiful valley in Paarl.

INFO www.santeretreat.co.za.

Johannesburg to Madikwe

in under an hour

Jamala, Madikwe

Start the weekend early with special local rates and shuttles from Johannesburg to Madikwe.

Federal Airlines is oering daily direct ights from Johannesburg to Madikwe at reduced rates for SA residents in conjunction with booking at a Madikwe Lodge associated with Federal Airlines. We believe that you should spend your time doing what you love and that is why, instead of driving; choose Federal Airlines where your adventure starts on the runway.

Flights can be booked through your travel agent or through one of our partner lodges.

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Historic charm at Little Pilgrims Boutique Hotel The charm of a bygone era with an opulent, luxurious touch best describes the unique boutique hotel of Little Pilgrims in Hazyview.

Little Pilgrims provides a personalised, concierge style service, along with the promise of a memorable experience which can’t be found anywhere else. Words Lianda Naudé

Each of its 35 suites face onto a beautifully manicured, lush subtropical garden, which includes a swimming pool and a band standstyle bar aptly named Big Will’s Pool Bar. The spacious suites have been individually decorated while the bathrooms are accessorised with high-end fittings. The large beds are suitably all decked out with fine, luxurious linen and good quality mattresses to ensure the guest has a peaceful slumber.

The beautiful suites, and in fact every inch of the hotel, is immaculately spotless, which clearly displays the attention paid to all the finer details by management team, Willem and Laureen Fick, and their staff. They are attentive but unobtrusive and create the perfect balance of friendliness, care, charm and grace.

Guests are treated to a feast of authentic cuisine when they dine at the Wagon Wheel Saloon. This is no ordinary restaurant, as it offers guests the opportunity to enjoy select wines from their extensive cellar, participate in a game of pool or relax in the cigar room at the end of a sumptuous meal.

Meals can be ordered from the menu or enjoyed from the buffet, which presents an extensive array of food. In the mornings, enjoy the breakfast buffet, which offers a choice of a hot brekkie or fabulous continental options.

Think finely cooked haddock in a flavoursome cheese sauce, a variety of cereals with fresh fruit and a selection of cold meats and cheese.

Convenient breakfast packs are also provided for those who wish to leave early in the morning for a day trip to visit various attractions around Hazyview.

Little Pilgrims additionally offers an onsite spa entitled Heather’s Spa. An inviting space, their treatments are varied and the skilled therapists provide a relaxing experience.

The quaint rondawel reservation office at Little Pilgrims provides guests with information on attractions in the surrounding areas such as safaris, day trips, the Kruger National Park etc. They will also do bookings on behalf of the guests.

INFO 013 737 3163, 072 590 7134, reservations@littlepilgrims.co.za. www.littlepilgrims.co.za

live

pangolin the plight of the

There’s a game called Picture Consequences that children play, in which each participant has to draw a body part. The piece of paper is folded and the next child, oblivious of what has previously been drawn, carries on the drawings, from the head, the next child the torso, the arms… and so on to the last depicting the legs and feet.

The results can be hilarious and obviously completely fabricated – that is until Evolution decided to play this game with Nature’s cohorts, and one day the result was a conical face, a tongue that is longer than its head and body, and can be retracted into a cavity below the stomach, short and stubby arms with very long claws, a thick, scaled body, short strong legs and a long, heavy tail. And thus the ground pangolin came into being Words Lynn Haken Pics Pangolin.Africa, Johan Vermeulen

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The smallest of Africa’s four pangolin species; The Black-bellied Pangolin.

most aspects

of a pangolin are visually somewhat confusing: a muscular, long sticky tongue; it is toothless and devours ants and termites but is not perturbed by the formic acid emitted (and yet each pangolin is rather fussy in choosing its particularly favourite ants).

The stomach houses sand and grit, which is consumed whilst foraging and aids digestion in grinding up the ant exoskeleton; it has thick, keratinous overlapping scales and poor vision. To some, it is NOT the most attractive of animals, looking like a shuffling artichoke, yet oddly enough it is extremely endearing. It’s as if all these odd qualities make up a quirky, cartoon-like creature. And one may surmise that it is related to the anteater or the Americas’ armadillo, but it actually has more in common with a carnivore, such as a cat!

The pangolin is very much at risk, from being critically endangered in Asia to endangered in Africa. They are, in fact, the most trafficked mammal on earth, exceeding rhino, elephant and perlemoen by many orders of magnitude. They are very rarely seen owing to their solitary nocturnal predilections and secretive nature, and consequently scientists do not know that much about them and have very few facts and figures, but sadly they are also hunted for their supposed medicinal qualities of their scales, which are ground into a powder to make up part of a panacea used in more than 60 various traditional Asian remedies for the treatment of numerous spiritual and medical ailments. When danger threatens, they roll up into a ball, their scales creating a strong defense (the name Pangolin is actually derived from the Malay word penggulin which means “one who rolls up.”).

Johan Vermeulen is a documentary filmmaker who, with producer Bruce Young, has made a documentary entitled Eye of the Pangolin in order to raise awareness of the plight of these creatures, which was screened at Casterbridge Cinema in May this year, after two years in the making. Supported in their efforts by Professor Ray Jansen, chairman of the African Pangolin Working Group, they also linked with Pangolin.Africa, a new non-profit organisation dedicated to pangolin conservation and who are promoting the film across the world. The film follows a quest to find and GREATOUTDOORS | 2019

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Johan Vermeulen films the stark reality of pangolins in the bush-meat trade in Ghana.

capture on film the four specific African pangolin species in their varying habitats and took the crew throughout the continent. They started in South Africa and ventured on to Ghana in search of the White-bellied pangolin, progressed onwards through the abundant rainforests of the Central African Republic for the Blackbellied; scouted the savannah grasslands and semi-deserts in South Africa for the Temmincks Ground Pangolin, and finished up the shoot in the almost impenetrable tropical jungles in Gabon where they were once again greeted with heavy humidity and dank foliage, whilst hacking at the thick lianas and hoping they wouldn’t meet up with the forest elephants hidden in the dark interiors, searching for the biggest and most elusive of all – the Giant Ground Pangolin.

The film crew was also understandably anxious about the uncertainties of their quest at times – not only looking for these elusive creatures, but also the reception they were likely to encounter from locals and possible traffickers. Added to the discomforts in the jungle, were also some encounters of the animals’ captivity and distressing sights of the bush meat trade witnessed during filming.

But there were also some delightful moments of levity – the funny, shuffling gaits of these charismatic creatures and the delight that they felt no fear of the crew and carried on their amblings amongst them; the almost embarrassing look one normally adept tree-climbing Black-bellied pangolin gave the film crew when he missed his footing and sprawled awkwardly at being saved from a humiliating belly-flop by a strategic branch.

And the pleasure of meeting those who have dedicated themselves to protecting pangolins, from willing volunteers, researchers and vets to those actively involved in campaigns to eliminate the illegal wildlife trade, and rescue and return these creatures to the wild, made the making of the film not only an enlightening project for all those involved, but with the free screenings generously offered and the translations into Mandarin, French and other languages, will thus hopefully help raise further awareness and enlightenment of the plight of the African Pangolin.

Sadly, it is probably too late for their Asian counterparts.

INFO Watch on YouTube at www.pangolin.africa

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Trekking through water in the beautiful forests of Central African Republic.

Producer Bruce Young meeting a Black-bellied Pangolin going through rehabilitation.

THEY ARE THE MOST TRAFFICKED MAMMAL ON EARTH, EXCEEDING RHINO, ELEPHANT AND PERLEMOEN.

Filming Maxwell Boakye, a researcher in Ghana, taking parasite samples off a White-bellied Pangolin.

Filmmaker Johan Vermeulen in the dense forests of Central African Republic.

GREATOUTDOORS | 2019

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brushing up to

meaning Sometimes you get to see the pieces left behind; the artworks not included in the exhibition. These complete the puzzle. Annelle Whyte discovers the talent of artist and scientist, Elise Buitendag Words Annelle Whyte Art photos Mia Louw

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i met

Elise and a friend Wendy take in the huge fever-tree grown in the Lowveld National Botanical Garden from a seed collected in 1971.

Elise Buitendag to talk about her new book, Genesis of a Garden, and left not wanting to write (only) about it. Not because it isn’t an accurately beautiful rendition of one of South Africa’s national treasures: the Lowveld National Botanical Gardens. But because it would be an injustice not to share the privilege of insight into a woman of so many facets.

Her lens on life is wise, spirited and kind.

And she is tricky to sum up. Better known for her larger than life, gorgeously coloured botanical art, I’m left with the dichotomy that she really is, first up, a scientist. A scientist, who has always painted.

You see, it is botany that always has, and always will, drive this Earth Mother.

Elise was born on a cut flower farm outside Johannesburg in the 1940s, to a family of art and music-makers. She learnt from her father that “you don’t really see, until you look”. And this philosophy has contributed to the shaping of her varied and interesting career.

Having obtained a degree in botany from the University of Pretoria she spent four years working at the National Herbarium where she was part of the team identifying innumerable specimens of naturally occurring South African plant species. It was her entomologist husband, Carel’s, new job at the South African Citrus Board that first brought her to the Lowveld in 1965.

Her journey with the botanical gardens begun before its existence. Elise had heard that the National Botanic Gardens planned to start a botanical garden in Nelspruit, and followed developments with interest.

Donated by HL Hall and Sons and the Nelspruit Municipality, the land was considered by many to be unsuitable, due to the confluence of the Nels and Crocodile Rivers whose Y shape effectively cuts the garden into three.

Galvanised by the challenge, she bravely took the mantle of botanical officer. And for 12 years from 1969 to 1981 recorded all plants species occurring naturally in the 153 hectare area of the garden, and identified all new additions to the garden, as well as specimens brought in by the public.

Elise was often invited to give talks on the early years of the botanical gardens and GREATOUTDOORS | 2019

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live was invariably encouraged to record it in book form for posterity. In 2013, Elise lost her husband, Carel to cancer, and her son Conrad had also been diagnosed. She was compelled to leave the family farm and start a new life in town. Fellow Lowvelder, David Hilton-Barber, persuaded her to talk, to open up about her emotions. And to find her creative voice. It was then that Genesis of a Garden was born. Her account is packed with information and anecdotes of challenges, humour, friends and sadness; her sensitivity and heart for life – for people, the planet and plants is threaded throughout. It is richly peppered with her own illustrations and paintings.

“When things are difficult: do something. Gardening, painting, wash the dishes.” Listening to her share how she emerged from the darkness of losing her life partner and then later her son, and chose to live, reminded me of a Martin Luther King quote: “If you can’t fly, then run, if you can’t run, then walk, if you can’t walk, then crawl, but by all means keep moving.”

The book was launched in March 2019, timed serendipitously with the garden’s jubilee year.

Her service at the garden eventually brought about desire for change. And after three years of full-time painting, she accepted a part-time position at the Institute for Tropical and Subtropical Crops. During her time there (1984 to retirement), her duties were to draft international test guidelines for subtropical fruit crops and some South African ornamental plants. This implied that she attend technical meetings of the International Union of Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV).

UPOV (Head Office Geneva, Switzerland) is the organisation responsible for international harmonising of testing new plant varieties for the purpose of plant breeders’ rights. Despite the sanctions of the first few years, the international community required technical input from South Africa. It was also a time where gender and other forms of discrimination was rife in South Africa. It is thanks to women like Elise who walked before us that we have more gender parity today.

Due to the expertise and precision her job required, Elise’s role evolved into the drafting of numerous international test guidelines and she was the first woman from outside of Europe to chair the technical committee of UPOV. “I see plants microscopically and macroscopically, how they link. A multi-support system that sustains all life. There is so much in nature - the water in cells, chemistry, roots underground – and the whole system is interconnected.”

“I want to explain science, to help bring the wonders and beauty of nature to people. In addition to the obvious, publicised environmental issues, one must also consider

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natural habitats that are just as threatened. Sadly, funding for research continues to dwindle. Which means less new cultivars are being developed and registered. With climate change we need more drought-resistant plants, for example.

And insecticides that are kind to the environment. Plants that can survive the changing conditions. Without that we are stagnating. And for this: we must have scientists,” explains Elise.

For Elise, art is the other side of science’s coin. It is an intellectual exercise in that it implies a myriad of choices at any one point that shapes the end. And it’s no surprise that it is the natural world that inspires her. Elise’s father first taught her how to paint and draw. She learned the exacting art of botanical watercolour from one of her mentors, Cythna Letty, the doyenne of botanical art, alongside whom she worked at The National Herbarium. Later, she broadened her artistic horizons and learned oil painting techniques from artists like Karin Daymond.

“My art has changed over the years. I was meticulous in depicting science: it had to be true to form. These days, I am more expressive, although my work has never lost its diagnostic character.” I decided to ask about the paintings in her home, those that were not on show at the recent White River Gallery exhibition. She shared with me the stories of her personal favourites. Those of her family, and those she painted for her family. And then, some unfinished from a painful time in her life, where she can’t recall the memories without hurting.

“I derive great satisfaction from work well done. And want to put into this world something that wasn’t there yesterday, something worthwhile. I don’t want to just exist.”

A teacher, and most importantly for her, a contributor, Elise leaves me with ongoing food for thought. But not before conspiratorially sharing ... “there is another book coming…” We wait with bated breath!

Elise and the gallery’s Dana MacFarlane toast a successful exhibition.

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100 95 75

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spaces

spaces

mozambique modern

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With a nod to the Modernists and an eye toward the contemporary, a couple design, and build, an elegant oasis in tropical Mozambique Words Alma Viviers/ bureaux.co.za Production Sven Alberding/ bureaux.co.za Photos Greg Cox/ bureaux.co.za

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asper van der Merwe and Hein Visser had been living in the popular tourist town of Tofo, in Inhambane Province of southeastern Mozambique for eight years where they ran a guest house and restaurant.

But the pair grew tired of the always-a-party lifestyle of Tofo and wanted a little respite, a quiet oasis from the hustle and bustle. So they scoured the surroundings for a property and found it perched on a dune just outside Tofo, fringed by a lush mangrove forest, which puts just enough space between them and the cosmopolitan town and popular beach.

“It is a massive dream that became reality,” says Casper.

“We spent a long time dreaming and envisioning what we wanted the house to look like but also how the spaces needed to live. We made it very vivid for ourselves.”

They imagined an elegant, clean-lined house where everything could open up. “With a superb climate such as this, you want to make the most of the outdoors,” explains Hein. “We imagined features such as being able to fall out of bed and into the pool or taking a bath outside.”

Casper concurs: “Unlike the crammed, air-conditioned, low-ceiling concrete houses that we had been renting, we wanted to create this open space that gives you the feeling of being outdoors even when you are indoors.”

Casper counts some of the proponents of Modernism such as Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe and Carlo Scarpa

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The main house consists of an open living, dining and kitchen area with a master suite that opens-up onto a private courtyard. A sliding door divides the suite from the rest of the house. Two additional suites are separate from the main house.

THE WONDER OF WINTER Wi n t e r i s a t i m e of reflecti on. O f b ecom i n g aware again of t h e elemen t s of n at ure. Our col l ection o f o u t d o o r f u r n i t ure i s m a d e for a ll s ea s on s, an d in spired by t h e colours an d t ext ures of t he w or l d a ro u n d u s . P o p i n tod a y a nd d i s cover why Weylan dt s is about more t h an just fur n it ure.

NELSPRUIT

|

010 900 4551

|

N.DEBRUIN@WEYLANDTSHOME.CO.ZA

as inspiration. “The architecture in Inhambane is incredibly beautiful,” he explains. “It is all old concrete Art Deco and Modernist buildings – I love the simple lines of the buildings.”

The plan of the house is straightforward: A long rectangle of brick and wooden columns, which frees up the walls to become large wooden sliding doors that give a whole new meaning to open-plan. It allows for an internal flexibility and spatial freedom – an important aspect of the design for the couple. Timber sliding doors, reminiscent of the Japanese shōji screens that act as doors, windows and room dividers all-in-one, allowing whole facades of the house to be opened up.

This is also a natural way to control the building’s climate: “The doors are almost never closed. Depending on the prevailing wind or if it rains you just close the exposed side,” says Hein. “We don’t have air-conditioning, not even ceiling fans.”

A 600mm clerestory window that runs below the roofline creates the impression that

While some of the sliding walls glide into cavity walls, the front façade slides beyond the building extending the linearity of the façade when fully opened.

The CCA-treated pine fades to a greyish-green tinge echoing the colour of the trunks of the ubiquitous palm trees.

spaces the roof is floating above columns and walls as well as allowing natural lighting into the space when the doors are closed.

While the planning phase was effortless, building proved to be more challenging. Because of the sandy soil site, preparation was crucial. The whole footprint of the house was excavated to foundation depth and the soil was replaced with a compacted sand-cement mixture. The footings for the timber columns were then excavated from the stabilized soil.

Manufactured construction resources are limited in the country and almost all of the building materials, including fittings, were imported. “We literally had to truck everything in – taps, basins, lighting, and ironmongery – except copper piping,” explains Hein.

“Which adds another layer of logistics and costs to the building project.”

The couple also sank a borehole and laid irrigation – a necessity in the warm clime and sandy soil – to cultivate a lawn around the houses and planted more than 140 trees. “We plotted the house in such a way as to not sacrifice any of the existing trees,” Casper says. “We wanted the mature trees to form part of the design.”

Although not a typical Modernist glass box, the transparency achieved by the openness of the house accomplishes to some extent the ideologies of Casper’s icon Mies van der Rohe when he says: “We should try to bring nature, houses, and human beings together in a higher unity,” making for an original house that melds with its surroundings and making occupants keenly aware of their environment.

The deck with daybed invites poolside lounging with a good book and a cocktail in hand.

One of the features of the house that Casper and Hein envisioned was to be able to literally roll out of bed into the pool, which is central to the house’s layout.

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Welcome to paradise – the front door to Vanilla Views.

The private courtyard houses an outdoor bathroom with twin showers and a sunken bath.

&

subscribe

win

A two-night stay at Paradise Falls valued at over R5 600

Sign up to the LL experience and the latest copy will be delivered to you. For only R222.84, you will receive a year’s subscription of six editions of Lowveld Living Magazine. Subscribe in the months of August and September 2019 and you stand the chance to win a self-catering stay for six people at the charming getaway of Paradise Falls.

Photos Patrys Carelsen

B

oasting spectacular panoramic views of the lush Mpumalanga escarpment, Paradise Falls Accommodation is a lovely self-catering lodge that sleeps six (two bedrooms and one sleeper couch). There is a fully functional kitchen, lounge and dining area, which provides guests with all of the creature comforts of home, while being able to commune with the undisturbed natural surroundings of forest, waterfalls, and wildlife. For a relaxing evening, guests can pop open a bottle of wine and experience starry skies down at the boma/braai area.

For adventure enthusiasts, there are 21km of trails (running, mountain biking and hiking) that can be easily accessed right from the lodge’s doorstep. Other activities include paragliding and bird-watching. Children and adults can also frolic in the clear waters of the waterfall.

Paradise Falls can act as your base when visiting the Kruger; it is 112km from Pambeni Gate.

Other places to visit nearby include Sudwala Caves, Jane Goodall Institute’s Chimp Eden, Wild horses at Kaapsehoep and Sabie Breweries.

INFO info@paradisefalls.co.za

TO SUBSCRIBE: CALL: 079 523 4671 | EMAIL: lowveldliving@gmfc.co.za/info@lowveldlivingmagazine. com | Ts&Cs: The prize excludes: transfers to and from the lodge, meals and beverages. Linen and towels provided. Bookings are subject to availability. Magazine: Rate applicable to one-year subscription of six editions at R222.84. Processing of the subscription may take up to a week.

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restaurant & venue guide FILL UP ON THIS

VALUE FEAST AND OTHER FLAME GRILLED FAVOURITES TODAY! BROWN STREET 013 752 5371 CAROLINA 017 843 3030 EMKHATSINI 013 747 2334 HALLS GATEWAY 013 752 2589 HAZYVIEW 013 737 7776 KABOKWENI 013 796 1688 KRIEL 017 648 2203 KWA GUKWQA (KG MALL) 013 698 0042 MALELANE 013 790 0379 N’KOMAZI PLAZA 013 780 3777 NELSPRUIT PLAZA 013 752 8565 PRIME CORNER 013 752 4619 THE GROVE 013 757 0692/93 TONGA MALL 013 780 0273 WHITE RIVER 013 750 1981 WITBANK DOWN TOWN 013 656 4582 WITBANK SASOLA 013 656 1243 WELGEKOZEN (PIET RETIEF) 017 826 0322 MIDDELBURG 013 203 5952 FOURIE STREET 017 801 9216 MATSULU CONTAINER 013 778 3005 NGODWANA CONTAINER 072 013 5048 THULAMAHASHE CONTAINER 061 449 9568 LYDENBURG CONTAINER 013 235 0321 MKUHLU CONTAINER 071 609 4846 ELUKWATINI CONTAINER 082 421 7615 MHLUZI CONTAINER 071 413 8605 PIENAAR CONTAINER 066 157 8991 CASTEEL CONTAINER 063 733 0433

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