Our car was delivered this morning and our road trip  began in glorious sunshine. Sheila thought she was driving the Garden Route but apparently, (thanks,know-all), that will begin once we get to Mossel Bay and we have a few detours to do on the way.

Our Toyota  Urban Cruiser for the next 10 days.

We’re having to start with quite a detour to our first stop, Hermanus, as the direct route is currently closed for repair. Great that they drive on the same side as the UK so no panic about which way to go round the roundabouts!      The main roads are marked N for national  and R for regional. They are well maintained, long, straight and fast – 75mph on the fastest but with many speed cameras. (Every time Sheila indicates she turns on the wipers – hoping Sue can do better tomorrow! )

Unfortunately we had a little while sharing the UK weather and chose not to stop and get wet in Hermanus but to drive straight to Grootbos.

It was a great drive through the mountains but there were some interesting views. Lots of signs like this.

We thought these chaps were only at Cape Point but it seems they roam many areas of South Africa. Many of their habitats have been lost so they forage where they can, especially near urban areas.  They seem to have more road sense than badgers as we didn’t see any bodies on the road but if your car hits one it must be reported to local wildlife centres.

There were other strange sights along the way. A giant strawberry and an array of large animal models were just a few – and it was still overcast.

Another view far less amusing was one of many townships we have passed whilst on the main roads.  They are usually in the distance , on the outskirts of towns. During Apartheid these were segregated urban areas for Black, Coloured and Indian persons. They are mostly underdeveloped, lack sanitation and have water and electricity shortages, or none at all.  The houses are roughly built ‘backyard shacks’, wooden often with a tin roof. They are overcrowded with high unemployment. There is violence, gangs, access to guns but for many, especially the young men, there are few jobs or ways out.  Even on the N road young men and children, who should be in school, were wandering along.  Some,such as Soweto, have become famous and are even visited by tourists admiring the cultures of them but as tourists we were constantly warned to keep our distance, car windows up and doors locked.  It’s a very difficult life for them and sad to see in this beautiful country.

Now we’re in Grootbos and have had beautiful views, including the sunset over the bay,  from our rooms. Each room has an outdoor shower but it’s a little chilly, ( they have log burners alight in the Lodge), so it will be redundant tonight! .

Hoping for warmer weather tomorrow as we journey on to Plettenberg Bay.