This year I would really like to travel more.
We spent the first part of our holiday in Clarens – you may remember I have
posted about this magical place before here & here. It is really one of the
most beautiful places I have ever been, and the relaxed atmosphere was a great
way to start a much needed holiday.
Josh and I arrived on Sunday afternoon, and after having no
electricity at home for 5 days before this, decided we would treat ourselves to
a night at the Protea hotel. We enjoyed a warm shower, relaxed in the king size
bed while watching TV and feasting on far too much room service food.
Within minutes, I could feel the stresses of the year I was
leaving behind begin to disappear. This was probably the point at which both
Josh and I decided that getting away more was a very necessary ambition for the
upcoming year.
The next morning we took advantage of the delicious coffee
and vast breakfast buffet, as we waited for friends to arrive that afternoon, for
the next part of our stay in Clarens, at Sediba Lodge.
After lunch at The Post House, we set off for the lodge. Sediba lodge is truly luxury accommodation. We stayed
in one of the lodges situated on the edge of a trout dam surrounded by the magnificent
Clarens Mountains. Besides the amazing surroundings, the lodge itself was absolutely
gorgeous, offering all the comforts of home and more.
We spent most afternoons sipping on the local craft beer on
the veranda or sitting alongside the dam while the guys enjoyed (unsuccessful)
trout fishing, all the while unwinding with the beautiful view.
The day before we left we took a drive to Golden Gate –
which is honestly breath taking.
The park gets its name from the golden colour created by the sun’s reflection
on the sandstone cliffs.
I find that seeing such vast beauty helps me to put my life into perspective…
which is very necessary at times. It is amazing to be reminded of the wonder
that exists around me.
We enjoyed a braai every evening, eating indoors, as the
weather is really cold at night.
It is hard to believe that after being sun burned in the afternoon, we found
ourselves sitting around a fire at night.
On our last night in Clarens,
Josh and I took a little walk to look at the stars before bed.
This was the most memorable part of our time in Clarens – which in such a stunning
place really speaks volumes. I can’t begin to describe the way I felt as we stood
quietly staring at the incredible night sky scattered with literally thousands
of stars. I was reminded of a quote by Vincent Van Gogh, which Josh sent to me
in the very beginning of our relationship: “For my part I know nothing with any
certainty but the sight of the stars makes me dream.”
I
look forward to my next visit to this special place again soon.
xx
