Tuesday, July 6, 2021

DE HOOP NATURE RESERVE

At the end of June, we spent a glorious 5 days in this Nature Reserve which is one of the few lowland protected areas inscribed by UNESCO as part of the Cape Floral Region World Heritage Site. It is famous for its unspoiled marine habitat, diverse fynbos, wide variety of birds and aquatic life around the lake.

Although we have been visiting this Reserve for over 50 years and seen many changes in those decades, we never tire of its beauty and are always delighted to discover another aspect of this wonderful place.

This time, the recent unusual rains in the area filled the lake so high that roads were under water preventing us from reaching some favorite spots. The vegetation was rejuvenated and in full bloom. The animals having plenty to eat were in excellent condition, browsing in a colourful landscape.

The weather was fabulous and the spring tides made our early daily visits to the beach memorable with spectacular sunrises, copper colours sliding on the waves followed by the perfect “blue hour” light and not another soul around made us feel alone in the world.

The grand finale of our visit was the full moon setting in the pinkest Earth shadow we have seen in a long time. It was simply extraordinary and well worth getting up so early and meander in the dark to witness this remarkable sight. 





















 

Tuesday, June 8, 2021

MOUNTAIN ZEBRA NATIONAL PARK

Tucked in a remote corner of the Eastern Cape Province, it provides a sanctuary for the beautiful Cape Mountain Zebra. 

It was my first visit to this park and I loved the steep climb to the top of the mountains, the long grass, the vast landscapes and feeling of freedom. Driving slowly in the crisp, clear mornings, we absorbed the peace and tranquillity of the days. The animals were shy and walked away as soon as we slowed down but it was just as exciting to observe them in their natural habitat.

One early morning, the zebras put up an impressive show of male dominance in front of a grandiose background and watching an African Hoopoe feeding close by, flipping its orange and black-tipped crest as it searched for insects with its long sharp bill, was enough to make the day. 

The 4X4 routes were a steep and thrilling challenge balanced by peaceful time bird watching at a water hole. 
























 

Saturday, May 15, 2021

MAGIC ON MY DOORSTEP

It is Autumn, my favorite season!
This is the backdrop of my life and I so enjoyed a drive through what was my favorite playground during the years I presented the Autumn in the Vineyards Workshops.
The warm and softer light drapes itself over the landscape and take on a magical aspect. The leaves glow enhancing the textures, patterns and shapes of the vineyards in a seductive display before the wind and the winter rains dissolve it all to leave me only with the last illusion of a dream.
What a treat to test my new Fuji 100-400mm lens in these conditions.