2 October 2012
The kids once again kindly woke us with cups of strong coffee before we got up for a delicious “Early Breakfast” We were due to check in at our next destination at 2 o’clock so there was time to do some chores for Lauren first. Now that summer is on its way she needs the fan in the lounge to work so she and Dad got stuck in to repair it.
Father and Daughter working out the Fan Puzzle
And I did some last minute bonding with my grandchildren
Simon, Granny and Fat Cat
Shannon, Granny and Fat Cat
Simon had a play date at his friend Hayden’s farm. Now he couldn’t just jump on his bike and ride over and nor was walking an option as the distance was quite a few kilometres – but we were able to save Lauren a drive as we were passing the farm on our way to Underberg:-)
Going anywhere in the district is always a pleasant drive and we spotted this buzzard soon after dropping Simon.
Steppe Buzzard
The drive to Underberg is spectacular with the Drankensberg looming up before you, the green, green vegetation and the splashes of dams and lakes everywhere
A typical view in KZN
Giant’s Castle
We did some shopping at the Underberg Mall and then drove on to Sani Valley Lodge which is at the bottom of The Sani Pass which takes one into Lesotho.
Approaching the Entrance
We we welcomed warmly by the gate guard and a beautiful Blesbok.
Greetings from a Blesbok
To us this is the most peaceful and wonderful place to be if you want to relax, enjoy Nature and fish. There are three stunning dams stocked with trout and if you, like us, enjoy birds – you won’t be disappointed.
- The Stonechat is seen regularly
The main Dam
The Bottom Dam
Pin Oaks line the drive to reception
Our accommodation, Early Mist 1, is self-catering and like all the other lodges incredibly well equipped. We even had a coffee plunger jug.
Our Lodge Early Mist 1
Dining area and kitchen
Lounge
Bedroom
- View from Bedroom
The highlight was the Jacuzzi
We were surrounded by wildlife, both birds and animals. The zebra could be seen but did not come up to close. Buck came to graze nearby in the evening and there were plenty of water birds to keep us amused while we lay in the Jacuzzi.
Black-headed Heron
Crowned Crane
Earl of course could not wait to get out on the Lake but could only get a boat for an hour. After that he went to try his luck from the bank of the little dam right in front of our lodge, before cooking up a wonderful dinner of chops and chicken wings on the braai.
To be continued ……
Diary of an Adventurous Retiree 
How lucky to capture the crowned crane… lovely post.. gonna have to follow you…
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Crowned crane are quite common in this area – have got even better in the past:-) Thanks for following – I am definitely following you too:-)
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